Media contact: Kate Fitzwilliams, (608) 356-9462 ext. 147
Press release prepared by the Association of Zoos & Aquariums. Read more about ICF’s partnership with AZA in the recent article, The Role of Regional Breeding Centers, which highlights captive crane management and is co-authored by ICF’s Senior Director of Conservation Networking, Claire Mirande.
Silver Spring, Maryland (9/9/13) – The Association of Zoos & Aquariums (AZA) announced this week that the International Crane Foundation (ICF) was granted re-accreditation by AZA’s independent Accreditation Commission.
“By meeting Association of Zoos and Aquariums Accreditation Standards, the International Crane Foundation sets itself apart as one of the top zoos in the world,” said AZA President and CEO Jim Maddy. “The International Crane Foundation is a leader in the care and conservation of cranes, and in educating people about the natural world.”
To be accredited, the International Crane Foundation underwent a thorough review to ensure it has and will continue to meet rising standards, which include animal care, veterinary programs, conservation, education, and safety. AZA requires zoos and aquariums to successfully complete this rigorous accreditation process every five years in order to be members of the Association.
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, including animal care; keeper training; safety for visitors, staff and animals; educational programs; conservation efforts; veterinary programs; financial stability; risk management; visitor services; and other areas. Finally, top officials are interviewed at a formal hearing of AZA’s independent Accreditation Commission, 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 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. 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.
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