The Birch Aquarium at Scripps Institution of Oceanography at UC San Diego is basking in the shine of continued excellence, securing once again the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) accreditation. Known as a benchmark for zoos and aquariums worldwide, this re-accreditation stamps Birch Aquarium with the seal of 'gold standard' professional approval, as stated by AZA's President and CEO Dan Ashe. With a rigorous process including on-site inspections and deep review, Birch Aquarium has shown to be in the top tier of animal care and conservation.

According to a recent announcement, the institution joined the elite rank of other accredited facilities, confirmed by AZA's independent Accreditation Commission. Celebrated for their Quarter Century Award last September for a 25-year streak of accreditation, Birch Aquarium has continually proven its dedication to exemplary practices. With their accreditation, it is an assurance to the public by Dan Ashe that Birch Aquarium is dedicated to "the highest level of care and wellbeing" of their animals and are deeply committed to their conservation in the wild.

Having one's facility under the microscope by an independent inspecting team of zoological professionals isn't for the faint-hearted. They pore over every inch of the Aquarium's operation, from animal welfare to safety measures, scrutinizing whether the facility meets the evolving standards of the AZA. Harry Helling, the Aquarium's Executive Director, proudly acknowledged the high level of commitment and professionalism of the Birch Aquarium team, which was recognized during the inspection.

The final nod of approval comes on the heels of rigorous analysis. Detailed reports are chewed over, followed by a formal hearing with the institution's top officials. Only after such intense scrutiny, accreditation is bestowed. And Birch Aquarium crossed the line with flying colors. In a display of thoroughness, only 28 out of 31 applications reviewed at the AZA's Mid-Year Meeting in Memphis, Tenn. were granted accreditation. As Jennifer Nero Moffatt, Birch Aquarium’s Senior Director of Animal Care, Science and Conservation, put it, this accreditation reassures their community that they operate ethically and responsibly, and carry the assurance of "utmost care for both our animals and our guests."

Clawing its way to the top with other AZA-accredited institutions isn't just about clout; it's about meeting the ever-rising standards in animal care, conservation, and education. Birch Aquarium at UC San Diego seals its position amongst the 236 AZA-accredited institutions and 15 AZA-accredited related facility members throughout the U.S. and 12 other countries, continuing to rake in the trust of their community and the public at large.