March 26, 2014
Verbatim Release:
Jackson, MS - Jackson Zoo and City Officials received news during the annual mid-year conference of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums from the Accreditation Board, that the Jackson Zoo will retain accreditation. Early Wednesday morning, Director of the Jackson Zoo Beth Poff, along with Zoo Board President Eric Stracener, City of Jackson Ward 4 Councilman De'Keither Stamps, Chief Administrative Officer of the City of Jackson Synarus Green, and Director of Parks and Recreation Allen Jones spoke with the AZA board as part of the appeal process that began in September 2013, when the zoo was informed it was denied accreditation on the basis of the zoo's financial stability.
"This recent accreditation speaks volumes to the value and impact of attractions like the Jackson Zoo, on the educational and visitor experience of youth and families across our great city and beyond," said Acting Mayor, Charles Tillman. "The City of Jackson will continue to support and uplift its partnership with the Jackson Zoo."
Executive Director Beth Poff said "We are thrilled with the reversal of the earlier denial of accreditation by the AZA and are pleased to continue to be part of this important organization" The zoo will continue to improve the visitor experience through its customer service, animal exhibits, educational programming, and conservation partnerships. In addition, the zoo will begin the implementation of the financial plan proposed by the Jackson Zoo Board and consultant Rick Biddle of Shultz and Williams.
"While we will continue to work hard to provide visitors with the best zoo experience, the City and community will continue to be an active supporter of the zoo." said Board President, Eric Stracener. "Everyone can work together, and through visiting the zoo, attending events, and participating in programs, I know the Jackson Zoo will continue to make a turnaround."
"Approximately eight months ago, we had a zoo that was facing an issue, but now we have a zoo that is debt free and accredited," said Councilman for Ward 4, DeKeither Stamps. "We are looking forward to a bright and prosperous future for the Jackson Zoo."
The Zoo has been asked to make progress reports in 6 months and again in one year. These reports will be to show that the projected improvements and funding stay on track. The Jackson Zoo is accredited until September of 2016.
For more information about the Jackson Zoo Accreditation, events, or exhibitions, contact the Education and Public Relations Manager for the Jackson Zoo, Lucy Barton at 601-352-2580. The Jackson Zoo is located at 2918 West Capitol Street in Jackson and is open daily from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Visit www.jacksonzoo.org to get more information and our new site for up to date news Zoo It Better. The Jackson Zoo is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA). The AZA is America's leading accrediting organization that sets rigorous, professional standards for zoos and aquariums. The AZA is building North America's largest wildlife conservation movement by engaging and inspiring the 143 million annual visitors to its member institutions and their communities to care about and take action to help protect wildlife.
Comments
NotLikeU 10 years ago
congrats...
"The Zoo has been asked to make progress reports in 6 months and again in one year. These reports will be to show that the projected improvements and funding stay on track. The Jackson Zoo is accredited until September of 2016."
i do wonder what does the Zoo has planned to improve their exhibits and Zoo experience to connect to the public area and increase visitors? What are the improvements that will be done to create sustainability? Good luck on this new opportunity.
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