We are thrilled and so proud to announce that we have been granted continued accreditation by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), a prestigious honor that places the zoo among the elite zoological institutions around the world. The Utica Zoo is one of approximately 235 facilities worldwide to hold this distinguished certification.
“Only the very best zoos and aquariums can meet AZA’s accreditation standards for animal care and conservation, which are universally acknowledged as the ‘gold-standard’ within the zoological profession,” said AZA President and CEO Dan Ashe. “By achieving accreditation, the Utica Zoo demonstrates a commitment to protecting animals around the world and inspiring their guests to do the same.”
To achieve AZA accreditation, the Utica Zoo underwent a thorough review process designed to ensure the institution meets the highest standards of excellence in categories including animal care and welfare, veterinary programs, conservation, education, and safety. AZA requires accredited institutions to successfully complete this rigorous process every five years.
The comprehensive accreditation process includes a detailed application followed by an on-site inspection conducted by a team of trained professionals from zoos and aquariums across the country. The inspection team evaluates every aspect of the zoo’s operation, including animal care, safety for visitors and staff, keeper training, conservation efforts, veterinary programs, financial stability, and more. Afterward, top zoo officials participate in a formal hearing with AZA’s independent Accreditation Commission, where a decision is made to either grant, table, or deny accreditation.
The AZA inspection team noted the following as particular strengths:
- “A proactive approach to assessing welfare is demonstrated through Quality of Life assessments started when an animal is near median age expectancy to measure animals’ benchmark welfare, before age-related health declines start.”
- “The Utica Zoo is recognized as a core community asset by the City of Utica and surrounding communities. This is evidenced in the extremely strong community support.”
- “The Utica Zoo Board of Directors is an incredibly engaged and supportive board. Their work to provide appropriate oversight and efforts to raise money to support the Zoo is commendable.”
- “The Education Department is extremely impressive in the number of programs offered, the aspirational vision for the department, and the enthusiasm by the staff.”
- “The staff culture is supportive and extremely positive at all levels of the zoo.”
- “The value of AZA accreditation is well known throughout the community and there is great pride in being an AZA member.”
The Utica Zoo’s hearing took place on September 14, 2024, at the AZA Annual Conference in Calgary, Alberta, where it was successfully granted accreditation.
“We are honored to be recognized once again for our dedication to animal welfare, conservation, and education,” said Utica Zoo Executive Director, Andria Heath. “This achievement reflects the hard work and passion of our entire team and our commitment to providing the best possible experience for both our animals and our guests. We are especially grateful to the 247 community and corporate volunteers who physically assisted us this Spring to prepare for our peak season and the AZA inspection.”
