Dane County’s Henry Vilas Zoo Receives AZA Reaccreditation with 14 Achievements

September 26, 2024
execmedia@danecounty.gov
County Executive, Henry Vilas Zoo

Dane County’s Henry Vilas Zoo is proud to announce that they have received another five years of accreditation from the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA). The comprehensive accreditation process includes a substantial application that is followed up 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 operations from animal care to visitor safety. Following the inspection, zoo officials participate in a formal hearing with AZA’s independent Accreditation Commission.

 

“We are excited to celebrate the Henry Vilas Zoo earning accreditation from the Association of Zoos & Aquariums,” stated Dane County Executive Jamie Kuhn. “This incredible zoo, which remains free to the public, is a testament to our team who strive to reach high standards for animal welfare, professional management, visitor services, and conservation education.”

 

Henry Vilas Zoo was given 14 particular points of significant achievement during the inspection process including accolades for their comprehensive DEI plan designed by engaging with diverse community members, a robust volunteer program that utilizes a team of 400 well-trained, dedicated volunteers, and the Zoo’s modern, well-equipped animal health center. By earning accreditation, the Zoo remains one of 252 facilities to hold this distinguished certification, which accounts for less than 10% of the zoos worldwide.

 

“Our staff has worked very hard to achieve this goal,” said Zoo Director Ronda Schwetz. “This accomplishment represents hundreds of hours of work. We are thrilled to have earned our reaccreditation and look forward to continuing our wildlife conservation efforts.”

A thorough review ensures that each facility has met and will continue to meet ever-evolving standards. As a condition of Association membership, AZA facilities must complete this rigorous accreditation process every five years. Henry Vilas Zoo has been continuously accredited by AZA since 1976.

“Congratulations to the Henry Vilas Zoo for meeting our rigorous standards and achieving an Association of Zoos and Aquariums accreditation,” said Dan Ashe, president and chief executive officer at AZA. “Earning accreditation is a mark of excellence and a testament to Henry Vilas Zoo’s unwavering commitment to the highest standards of animal care and conservation. Your dedication not only enhances the lives of the animals you care for but also sets a precedent for excellence in the zoological community.”

About AZA

Founded in 1924, the Association of Zoos and Aquariums is a nonprofit organization dedicated to the advancement of zoos and aquariums in the areas of conservation, animal welfare, education, science, and recreation. AZA is the accrediting body for the top zoos and aquariums in the United States and 12 other countries.

AZA accreditation increases eligibility for funding and allows the Zoo to participate in Animal Conservation Programs. These programs oversee the population management for many endangered species and enhances the conservation of those species in the wild. AZA accredited zoos recognize that cooperative management is critical to the long-term survival of these animals.

About Henry Vilas Zoo

Henry Vilas Zoo is one of only 10 free AZA-accredited facilities worldwide. The Zoo is dedicated to exceptional animal care, conserving wildlife and providing the community with education about the natural world. For more information, visit http://www.henryvilaszoo.gov. 

For more information, please contact Kristin Moala at 608-283-1651.