03/31/2024
Brevard Zoo Reaccredited By Association of Zoos and Aquariums, Among Best in the Nation
By Space Coast Daily // March 31, 2024
OUT OF 31 APPLICATIONS, 28 WERE GRANTED ACCREDITATION
Brevard Zoo has been reaccredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums. Of the 31 applications for accreditation reviewed by the Commission during AZA’s Mid-Year Meeting held in Memphis, Tennessee, 28 were granted accreditation. (Brevard Zoo image)
BREVARD COUNTY, FLORIDA – Brevard Zoo has been reaccredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums. Of the 31 applications for accreditation reviewed by the Commission during AZA’s Mid-Year Meeting held in Memphis, Tennessee, 28 were granted accreditation.
“Congratulations to the staff at Brevard Zoo for achieving the world’s ‘gold standard’ for the zoological and aquarium profession,” said Dan Ashe, AZA’s president and chief executive officer.
“AZA’s standards continually evolve to reflect best practices in animal care and wellbeing, veterinary care, conservation, scientific advancement, and safety and security, among other things. With this assurance, the public can trust that the animals at (facility name) receive the highest level of care and wellbeing, and there is a deep commitment to their conservation in the wild.”
AZA accreditation includes a detailed application and a meticulous multiple-day on-site inspection by an independent team of zoological professionals.
The inspecting team analyzes all aspects of the facility’s operation, including animal welfare and wellbeing; veterinary care; staff training; safety for visitors, staff, and animals; educational programs; conservation efforts; financial stability; risk management; governance; and guest services.
Detailed reports from the inspection team and the facility alike are then thoroughly evaluated by the Commission. Finally, the Commission interviews top officials from the facility at a formal hearing, after which accreditation is fully granted, provisionally granted for one year, or denied.
A thorough review ensures that each facility has met and will continue to meet ever-rising standards. As a condition of association membership, AZA facilities must complete this rigorous accreditation process every five years.
“AZA accreditation sets our Zoo apart as a leader among zoos and aquariums,” said Keith Winsten, Brevard Zoo CEO. “We’re proud to be among a select group of zoos and aquariums that maintains such a high standard. Our community can enjoy our Zoo knowing we’re providing the greatest possible care for our animal residents.”
