Association of Zoos and Aquariums

Association of Zoos and Aquariums
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Name	Association of Zoos and Aquariums
Headquarters	Silver Spring, Maryland
Region served	United States
Members	Over 230 zoos and aquariums

Association of Zoos and Aquariums is a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting and supporting the zoological garden and aquarium community in the United States. The organization works closely with San Diego Zoo, National Zoo, and Monterey Bay Aquarium to advance the field of zoology and marine biology. Founded in 1924, the organization has grown to include over 230 zoos and aquariums, such as Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, Georgia Aquarium, and Saint Louis Zoo. The organization is also affiliated with the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums and the European Association of Zoos and Aquaria.

● History

The organization was established in 1924 by a group of zoo and aquarium professionals, including Charles Schroeder and William Temple Hornaday, who were instrumental in shaping the organization's early years. The organization's first meeting was held at the New York Zoological Society, and it was attended by representatives from Bronx Zoo, Brookfield Zoo, and Philadelphia Zoo. Over the years, the organization has undergone several name changes, from the American Association of Zoological Parks and Aquariums to its current name, and has expanded its membership to include aquariums such as Shedd Aquarium and Tennessee Aquarium. The organization has also worked closely with other conservation organizations, such as the International Union for Conservation of Nature and the World Wildlife Fund, to promote the conservation of endangered species like the giant panda and the California condor.

● Membership and Accreditation

To become a member of the organization, zoos and aquariums must meet certain standards and undergo a rigorous accreditation process, which involves evaluations by experts from Zoo Atlanta, Houston Zoo, and Phoenix Zoo. The organization has accredited over 230 zoos and aquariums, including Dallas Zoo, Denver Zoo, and Indianapolis Zoo. Members of the organization include SeaWorld, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, and Disney's Animal Kingdom, which are all committed to providing high-quality care for their animals and promoting conservation efforts. The organization also works with other accrediting agencies, such as the Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries and the Association of Zoos and Aquariums' Accreditation Commission, to ensure that its members meet the highest standards of animal care and welfare.

● Conservation Efforts

The organization is involved in various conservation efforts, including the Species Survival Plan program, which is designed to manage and conserve endangered species like the Amur leopard and the Sumatran tiger. The organization works with zoos and aquariums like Cincinnati Zoo and New England Aquarium to develop breeding programs for these species and to promote their conservation. The organization is also involved in conservation efforts for marine species, such as the sea turtle and the coral reef, and works with organizations like the Ocean Conservancy and the Marine Conservation Institute to protect these species and their habitats. Additionally, the organization supports conservation efforts in the wild, such as the Mountain Gorilla Conservation Program and the African Elephant Conservation Program, which are implemented by organizations like the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund International and the World Wildlife Fund.

● Education and Community Engagement

The organization provides educational resources and programs for zoos and aquariums to promote conservation and education, such as the AZA Education Committee and the AZA Conservation Education Committee. The organization works with zoos and aquariums like National Zoo and Monterey Bay Aquarium to develop educational programs and materials, such as the Zoo and Aquarium Education Program and the Conservation Education Program. The organization also provides funding and support for conservation education programs, such as the AZA Conservation Grants Program and the AZA Education Grants Program, which are awarded to organizations like the Wildlife Conservation Society and the Ocean Conservancy. Furthermore, the organization partners with other organizations, such as the National Science Foundation and the National Geographic Society, to promote science education and conservation awareness.

● Animal Care and Welfare

The organization has established standards and guidelines for animal care and welfare, which are designed to ensure that zoos and aquariums provide high-quality care for their animals. The organization works with zoos and aquariums like San Diego Zoo and Columbus Zoo and Aquarium to develop and implement animal care and welfare programs, such as the AZA Animal Care and Welfare Committee and the AZA Animal Welfare Program. The organization also provides training and resources for animal care professionals, such as the AZA Animal Care and Welfare Training Program and the AZA Veterinary Advisory Group, which are designed to promote best practices in animal care and welfare. Additionally, the organization works with other organizations, such as the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals and the Humane Society of the United States, to promote animal welfare and prevent animal cruelty.

● Governance and Leadership

The organization is governed by a board of directors, which includes representatives from zoos and aquariums like Bronx Zoo and Shedd Aquarium. The organization's leadership includes a president and CEO, who is responsible for overseeing the organization's operations and implementing its strategic plan. The organization also has a number of committees and task forces, such as the AZA Accreditation Commission and the AZA Conservation Committee, which are responsible for overseeing specific aspects of the organization's work. The organization works with other organizations, such as the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums and the European Association of Zoos and Aquaria, to promote cooperation and collaboration among zoos and aquariums worldwide. The organization is also a member of the International Union for Conservation of Nature and the World Wildlife Fund, and works with these organizations to promote conservation and sustainability.