Oregon Zoo is honored for 50 years of AZA accreditation

Oregon and Philadelphia zoos are the only two in the world to earn this distinction

The Oregon Zoo was honored today with the Association of Zoos and Aquariums’ Half Century Award — marking 50 years of continuous accreditation —at the association’s annual conference, held this year in Calgary, Alberta.

In 1974, the Oregon Zoo and Philadelphia Zoo became the first two zoos in the world to earn AZA accreditation, and each has maintained its standing continuously for the past 50 years.

In a letter to Oregon Zoo director Heidi Rahn, AZA’s Board of Directors chair Lisa New and Accreditation Commission chair Craig Piper wrote: “AZA is honored to present your institution with the Half Century Award, recognizing the Oregon Zoo’s decades-long commitment to maintaining the highest standards in animal care and welfare, veterinary care, conservation, education, staffing, facilities, safety, guest services, and more. This award acknowledges the Oregon Zoo’s continuous dedication to advancing modern zoological practices and philosophies — the hallmarks of AZA accreditation.” 

The zoo also earned an Excellence in Marketing Award for its “Together for Wildlife” rebrand and “Come for the Wonder, Stay for the Wild” ad campaign.

“We are deeply honored,” Rahn said. “These awards are some of the highest accolades in the zoo world. They signify the respect of our peers from all across the country and beyond.”

Over the past dozen years, the Oregon Zoo has been recognized with 13 of the association’s major annual awards: six for conservation work on behalf of endangered species, two for excellence and innovation in exhibit design, one for environmental efforts in the zoo’s day-to-day operations, one for achievement in diversity, and three for excellence in marketing.

AZA’s accreditation process includes a detailed application and meticulous on-site inspection by trained zoo and aquarium professionals. The inspecting team observes all aspects of a zoo’s operations, including animal care; keeper training; safety for visitors, staff and animals; educational programs; conservation efforts; veterinary programs; financial stability; risk management and visitor services.