Utah’s Hogle Zoo has earned a rare distinction granted to only nine other zoos in the last half-century: a perfect score in the Association of Zoos and Aquariums accreditation process.
The extraordinarily high mark and accreditation mean the association found no lesser or major concerns at Hogle Zoo.
“Utah’s Hogle Zoo just did what only a handful of zoos or aquariums have ever done,” said Dan Ashe, president and CEO of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, in a statement Tuesday. “Not only did they, once again, achieve AZA accreditation, the global gold standard for modern aquariums and zoos, they did so without even a single item of concern — a perfectly clean inspection report. This is a rare occurrence and reflects Hogle Zoo’s dedication to excellence.”
Founded in 1924, the Association of Zoos and Aquariums is a nonprofit organization dedicated to the advancement of zoos and aquariums, specifically in the areas of conservation, animal welfare, education, science and recreation. It has accredited 254 of the top zoos, aquariums and related facilities across 13 countries.
In the association’s 51 years of granting accreditations, Hogle Zoo is only the 10th organization to earn a perfect score and a clean evaluation.
“I am immensely proud of the team’s dedication and accomplishments at Hogle Zoo, including a daily commitment to meet and exceed AZA’s high standards. We are embracing a ‘one zoo’ mindset, where we understand our priorities, support one another and work extremely hard. We recognize the importance of our individual efforts in contributing to our collective success and having a positive impact on animals, guests and the community. Our team members across the entire zoo are difference makers and true champions for wildlife, not only for the animals in our care, but for wildlife worldwide,” said Doug Lund, CEO of Hogle Zoo, in a statement.
To earn the accreditation, a team of independent zoological professionals conducted onsite inspections over several days, encompassing Hogle Zoo’s entire operations. They looked at animal well-being, veterinary care, safety, staff training, conservation programs, educational programs, governance, financial stability and guest services to compile the score.
The committee specifically lauded the zoo’s organized facilities, innovative safety systems, highly effective security programs, comprehensive radio and camera capabilities, and the staff’s collaborative spirit, according to a release from the zoo.
The zoo’s Aline W. Skaggs Wild Utah exhibit was also recognized for having modern zoological practices and a “forward-thinking” focus on local wildlife.
Of the 2,800 animal exhibitors licensed by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, less than 10% are accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums. Hogle Zoo, on the other hand, has received accreditation since 1979.
“Through our team’s dedication to professional excellence, we’re making a lasting impact on the animals under our care, the guests we inspire and wildlife conservation efforts around the world,” said Liz Larsen, chief mission officer at Hogle Zoo. “A perfect score reflects the dedication of our entire zoo team, including animal care, veterinary services, administrative leadership, facilities, finance, operations, education, conservation, guest services, volunteers, advancement and human resources.
“Everyone played a role in reaching this milestone.”