WAHPETON — The Association of Zoos and Aquariums has stripped the Chahinkapa Zoo of its national accreditation.
It was first accredited in 1995 and has been reaccredited every 5 years since then.
The AZA independent Accreditation Commission said after a detailed application and a meticulous on-site, multi-day inspection by an independent team of trained zoological professionals, they decided not to renew the zoo's accreditation.
According to the commission, the inspecting team observes all aspects of the facility’s operation, including animal welfare and well-being, veterinary care, keeper training, educational programs, conservation efforts, financial stability, risk management, governance, guest services and safety for visitors, staff, and animals.
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A detail report of why the zoo failed was not immediately available.
Leaders at the Chahinkapa Zoo can appeal the ruling, but the AZA said appeals are rarely successful.
The earliest they can get back in good standing is in 2023.
“We wish all these facilities well, and hope they will reapply for accreditation when they are ready and eligible," said AZA President and CEO, Dan Ashe.
There are currently 242 AZA-accredited facilities and 14 AZA-certified related facility members throughout the U.S. and in 12 other countries.
