NJ’s #1 Zoo, Turtle Back Zoo in West Orange, Receives National AZA Accreditation
9/28/2011 2:43 PM EST
West Orange, NJ (September 28, 2011) – The Association of Zoos & Aquariums (AZA) has announced that Turtle Back Zoo in West Orange, NJ was granted accreditation by AZA’s independent Accreditation Commission. This is the second consecutive AZA accreditation received by NJ’s #1 Zoo, which first became accredited in 2006. Since then, Turtle Back Zoo has grown in recent years to a Top 5 Tourist Destination in the Garden State.
What is AZA accreditation and why is it important? AZA accreditation allows the public to easily identify institutions that demonstrate excellence and commitment to animal care, conservation and education. AZA accreditation also enables participation in critical programs such as the Species Survival Plan, AZA’s flagship Animal Conservation program.
Less than 10% of the approximately 2,400 animal exhibitors licensed by the United States Department of Agriculture are accredited. During the accreditation process, Turtle Back Zoo underwent a thorough review to ensure it has and will continue to meet ever-rising standards, which include animal care, veterinary programs, conservation, education, and safety. AZA requires zoos and aquariums to successfully complete this rigorous accreditation process every five years in order to be members of the Association.
“By meeting high Association of Zoos and Aquariums Accreditation Standards, Turtle Back Zoo has demonstrated its leadership among zoos and aquariums,” said AZA President and CEO Jim Maddy. “Only the best of the best rise to this level, and we congratulate the professionals at the Turtle Back Zoo for their hard work.”
News of the accreditation comes at an exciting time for Turtle Back Zoo, which continues to expand its offerings. This month, the Zoo opens “Treetop Adventure Course,” an aerial obstacle course including elements such as zip lines, rope bridges and other sky-high attractions. Next month, the Big Cats Exhibit will make its debut.
“Turtle Back Zoo has become a true, affordable recreation destination for those who live in and visit New Jersey,” said Dr. Jeremy Goodman, Director, Turtle Back Zoo. “AZA accreditation recognizes our commitment to quality animal care, education and conservation – and it lets visitors know, too.”
Press: For more information or to arrange an interview, please contact: Katie Denman, The S3 Agency, 973-257-5533 or
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Turtle Back Zoo, New Jersey’s #1 Zoo, is AZA-accredited and features over 800 animals from around the world. Turtle Back Zoo is part of South Mountain Recreation Complex, located in West Orange, NJ. Opened in 1963, Turtle Back Zoo is committed to providing an enriching recreation experience that fosters excellence in wildlife education and wildlife conservation for present and future generations.
Founded in 1924, the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to the advancement of zoos and aquariums in the areas of conservation, education, science, and recreation. Look for the AZA logo whenever you visit a zoo or aquarium as your assurance that you are supporting an institution dedicated to providing excellent care for animals, a great experience for you, and a better future for all living things. AZA is a leader in global wildlife conservation, and your link to helping animals in their native habitats. For more information, please visit www.aza.org.