Commission gives Hogle Zoo

Hogle Zoo has made the grade.

The Association of Zoos and Aquariums announced Friday morning that Utah's Hogle Zoo has been granted accreditation by AZA's independent accreditation commission.

"Utah's Hogle Zoo is one of the best in the world because it has met the highest standards in the world," said AZA President and CEO Jim Maddy. "It takes hard work and a sustained commitment to excellence to meet Association of Zoos and Aquariums Accreditation Standards."

To be accredited, Hogle Zoo underwent a thorough investigation to ensure 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.

The public should understand that zoo accreditation is not a "rubber stamp," or an easy process, Maddy said.

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, keeper training, educational programs, conservation efforts, veterinary programs, financial stability, risk management, visitor services and safety for visitors, staff and animals.

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.

Not all zoos received accreditation, and Hogle Zoo had its own standing of accreditation tabled from March 1998 to March 1999 pending improvements in veterinary services and maintenance areas. Through their review process, AZA officials found those problems had been resolved and were impressed with the improvements made since the probationary period began.

"Utah's Hogle Zoo is also a great place for people to connect with nature," Maddy said. "Members of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums support their schools and communities with science-based wildlife education programs that not only inform, but also inspire conservation action."

Founded in 1924, the Association of Zoos and Aquariums is a nonprofit organization dedicated to the advancement of zoos and aquariums in the areas of conservation, education, science and recreation.

Hogle Zoo began in 1911 in Liberty Park, with a single cage of monkeys. In 1931, it moved to its current location at the mouth of Emigration Canyon.

For more information on Hogle Zoo, go to: www.hoglezoo.org

e-mail: lynn@desnews.com