Gladys Porter Zoo Aza Accreditation

In a significant milestone for the Gladys Porter Zoo, located in Brownsville, Texas, the institution has been granted accreditation by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA). This esteemed accreditation serves as a testament to the zoo’s commitment to upholding the highest standards of animal care, conservation, and education.

Attaining accreditation from the AZA is no small feat in the world of zoological institutions. The process involves a meticulous application followed by an intensive on-site inspection conducted by a team of seasoned professionals in the field of zoology.

Dr. Pat Burchfield, the executive director and CEO of Gladys Porter Zoo, emphasized the broader implications of this accreditation, stating, “It means not just to the zoo, but to the community Valleywide, not just Brownsville, but the entire Rio Grande Valley that when they come to the Gladys Porter Zoo they come to a zoo that means the gold standards in zoos.”

Out of over 2,400 institutions in the United States with either zoo or aquarium in their names, only a select few—ranging from 216 to 236—are accredited by the AZA. This exclusive group represents facilities that have demonstrated excellence across various criteria, including animal welfare, conservation efforts, and financial stability.

The accreditation process, which must be completed every five years, entails a comprehensive evaluation of all aspects of the facility’s operations. From ensuring the well-being of the animals to maintaining sound financial practices, AZA-accredited institutions are held to rigorous standards.

Reflecting on the role of zoos in fostering environmental awareness, Dr. Burchfield remarked, “The biggest things zoos, aquariums, and parks can do now is be the eyes into nature to try and create an appreciation.”

Established in 1971, the Gladys Porter Zoo has earned renown for its diverse collection of over 1,600 animals and its successful breeding programs for endangered species.

While celebrating this achievement, Dr. Burchfield acknowledged that there is still work to be done to fulfill the commitments outlined in the accreditation process. Additional funding is needed to support capital projects aimed at enhancing the zoo’s facilities and programs.

“Anything we need to build we need to fundraise for. There is not pot of gold at the end of the rainbow, so any help that we can get be it through memberships at the zoo, zoo attendance, come to our events or be angel and help support the zoo with one of our capital projects. Everything is appreciated and every dollar is needed,” Dr. Burchfield emphasized.