Rigorous inspection and review process assures the attraction meets rising standards for animal care and welfare, veterinary programs, conservation, education and safety
The Association of Zoos & Aquariums (AZA) announced today that SEA LIFE Michigan Aquarium in Auburn Hills has been granted accreditation by AZA’s Independent Accreditation Commission.
“Only zoos and aquariums that meet the highest standards are accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums,” said AZA Interim Present and CEO Kris Vehrs. “When people visit SEA LIFE Michigan, they can be assured that they are supporting a facility that is a leader in providing quality care to wildlife, as well as committed to protecting these species’ future.”
To be accredited, SEA LIFE Michigan underwent a thorough review to assure it has and will continue to meet rising standards, which include animal care and welfare, 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.
SEA LIFE Michigan
“At SEA LIFE Michigan, we are deeply committed to caring for our creatures and creating healthy and engaging environments for them to live and grow in,” said Hayley Anderson, the attraction’s general manager. “Achieving AZA accreditation is a huge recognition for our ‘breed, rescue, protect’ mission and we look forward to educating our guests and inspiring a passion for wildlife conservation.”
AZA’s accreditation process includes a detailed application and meticulous on-site inspection by a team of trained zoo and aquarium professionals. The inspecting team observes all aspects of the institution’s operation, including animal care and welfare; keeper training; safety for visitors, staff and animals; educational programs; conservation efforts; veterinary programs; financial stability; risk management; visitor services; and other areas. Finally, top officials are interviewed at a formal hearing of AZA’s independent Accreditation Commission, after which accreditation is granted, tabled, or denied. Any institution that is denied may reapply one year after the Commission’s decision is made.
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 eight other countries. The AZA accreditation logo provides assurance that a facility is dedicated to providing excellent care for animals, a great experience, and a better future for all living things. AZA is a leader in saving species and helping animals all over the world. To learn more, visit www.aza.org.
For more information about upcoming events at the attraction, visit www.visitsealife.com/michigan.
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