County Zoo Receives Prestigious Accreditation

Since 1986, the Bergen County Zoo has stood at the forefront of the great work and highest standards that the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) have set over the years. On Wednesday afternoon, the jewel of Bergen County received its latest five-year accreditation after undergoing a lenghty review process of its animal care, veterinary programs, conservation, education, and safety.

"We have the highest standards in the world for zoos and aquariums," AZA representative Kris Vehrs said. "There are 223 accredited zoos, 214 of which arein the United States alone. You may not be our smallest accredited zoo but you are deifnately one of the smaller zoos at 13 acres. You have a speciality in North and South American animals and I am proud to call your county zoo and accredited zoo."

The requires zoos and aquariums to successfully complete this rigorous accreditation process every five years in order to be members of the Association. This accreditation allows for the seamless exchange of animals between fellow accredited Zoos, as well as ensuring the continued success of the Species Survival Program.     

"We've had an accredited zoo since 1986 and it's very important that we have this, that we keep it, and now work another five years to get it again," County Executive Kathleen Donovan said. "We've been enjoying this zoo a long time. My son is 21 now and I brought him here as a child. This zoo is a treasure."

Both County Park Director Ron Kistner and Zoo Director Marianne Vella stated that the award is credited to the zoo employees and volunteers.

"This couldn't be done today without everyone here," Kistner said. "From our first meeting in October when Mary was made director with the docents and employees who told us what needed to be straightened out."

"None of this could be done without all of you and this is yours," Vella added.

The AZA's accreditation process includes first submitting an application and then an on-site inspection of the entire facilities operation from animal care to keeper training; safety for visitors, staff and animals; educational programs and conservation efforts; veterinary programs; and several other areas. 

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