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(HOUSTON) March 7, 2008 … The Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) today announced that the Houston Zoo was granted accreditation by AZA’s independent Accreditation Commission.  The Zoo has been accredited since 1989 when it was first recognized by the American Association of Zoological Parks and Aquariums, the predecessor of today’s AZA.

“The AZA sets exceptionally high standards in all areas of our operations, from animal care to guest experience and everything in between,” said Sharon Joseph, VP of Animal Programs at the Houston Zoo.  “AZA accreditation affirms and recognizes the efforts of the entire Zoo staff to uphold and exceed those standards.  We’re very proud of our staff and the support we receive from the community and our board members,” added Joseph.  

“The Houston Zoo has made enormous strides in the last five years of its operation under the non-profit Houston Zoo, Inc.,” said Houston Zoo board chairman Jonathan Day.  “It’s gratifying to have this progress recognized by the AZA.  Accreditation is a tribute to the hard work of the Zoo staff, the HZI board members and the generosity of so many Houstonians who have made significant contributions to the Zoo in so many ways,” added Day.

“Only the very best zoos and aquariums can meet tough Association of Zoos and Aquariums accreditation standards,” said AZA President and CEO Jim Maddy. “The leadership and staff of the Houston Zoo are to be congratulated for the hard work and commitment that they put into the accreditation process.”

To be accredited, the Houston Zoo underwent a thorough investigation to insure it has and will continue to meet ever-rising standards, which include animal care, veterinary programs, conservation, education, and safety. AZA requires zoos and aquariums to successfully complete this rigorous accreditation process in order to be members of the association, and are required to resubmit to this process every five years. 

“Not only does the Houston Zoo meet or exceed AZA’s high standards, but it provides every visitor with a chance to connect to global wildlife conservation,” Maddy added. “Every member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums shares a strong commitment to animal care, professionalism, ethics, conservation, and education.  In turn, they enrich the lives of their communities by developing significant wildlife education and conservation programs.”

The mission of the AZA Accreditation Commission is to establish, uphold, and raise the highest zoological and aquarium industry standards through self-evaluation, on-site inspection, and peer review.  The accreditation process includes a detailed application and a meticulous on-site inspection by a team of trained zoo and aquarium professionals.

The inspecting team observes all aspects of the institution’s operation in areas such as animal care (including living environment and daily enrichment), keeper training, safety for animals, staff, and visitors, educational programs, conservation efforts, veterinary programs, financial stability, risk management, visitor services, and other areas.  The inspection team prepares an extensive written report for the Accreditation Commission.  Finally, top officials are interviewed at a formal Commission hearing, after which accreditation is granted, tabled, or denied.  Any institution that is denied may reapply one year after the Commission’s decision is made.

Founded in 1922, the Houston Zoo is an exciting live animal adventure that provides a unique educational and conservation resource serving 1.5 million guests annually.  Set in a 55-acre lush tropical landscape, the Zoo is home to more than 4,500 exotic animals representing more than 800 species.  Operated by the not-for-profit Houston Zoo, Inc., the Houston Zoo is dedicated to the conservation of endangered species, the provision of engaging educational opportunities and the creation of stimulating exhibits that broaden the experiences of our guests and encourage their curiosity.

Founded in 1924, the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to the advancement of zoos and aquariums in the areas of conservation, education, science, and recreation. Look for the AZA logo whenever you visit a zoo or aquarium as your assurance that you are supporting an institution dedicated to providing excellent care for animals, a great experience for you, and a better future for all living things. With its more than 200 accredited members, the AZA is a leader in global wildlife conservation, and your link to helping animals in their native habitats. For more information, please visit www.aza.org