This is actually a very good topic to talk about (my time is real short at the moment so I'd be happy to take this "off line". My facility has struggled with this very issue for the past 15 years. We originally wanted to become accredited through AZA, however, due to the many logistical hurdles we had to overcome, we were not in a position in our early stages. Over the years we just never felt a great need because our mission and approach is so very much different than most AZA facilities (not saying we are better but rather have a much different focus, we just take a more intimate approach between the public, the animals and the animal keeping staff....its all about hands on conservation education that we feel makes the greatest difference; and some AZA zoos are making great strides in this department and many of my colleagues are in this setting so I do respect AZA very much). I have maintained my individual AZA membership from my zookeeping days and feel that AZA is a very important organization who do wonderful things. There may come a day when we go back to the table and see if becoming accredited is in our best interests. The other accreditation institution that is getting recognized (Zoological Insitution of America) is one that we are currently pursuing. For us, accreditation has advantages with our insurance company so it may be a requirement in order for us to maintain our good relationship with them. There is also a perception that when you are "accredited" that somehow you are held in higher regard (that is more of a PR sort of motive). In the end, though, our operations will not significantly change nor will our mission.

For a small or medium sized breeder, I wouldn't see a big need to have your facility accredited, however, I do see great value in becoming an individual member of these organizations. You will have wonderful networking opportunities which can lead to many other avenues of benefits.

Rob Carmichael, Curator
The Wildlife Discovery Center
Lake Forest, IL

>>This is the only forum I ever see this mentioned in so I figured I would ask you guys. What are the advantages of accreditation through AZA, ZOAA, etc. for our type of business? Is it worth jumping through the hoops for a small to mid size breeder? I understand the desire to model care after these groups guidlines but what makes going through the actual review process worth it? I work for a major museum so I understand some of it but even a large private collector wouldn't do an AMA review. Is this just a venomous thing, maybe a requirement to own them in some states? Just currious.
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>>Sean
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>> Heart Mountain Herps
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Rob Carmichael, Curator
The Wildlife Discovery Center at Elawa Farm
Lake Forest, IL

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