EDITOR’S NOTE: The video is from a report KTSM 9 News made last on the accreditation process.
EL PASO, Texas (KTSM) — The El Paso Zoo and Aquarium has been denied accreditation by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, the City of El Paso said in a news release issued late Tuesday night, March 25.
This followed the zoo’s five-year review. The zoo plans to appeal the decision, the City said.
While the AZA Accreditation Commission cited “deferred maintenance” in older guest areas of the facility, no concerns were raised regarding animal care, which remains the zoo’s top priority, the City said.
Notably, the inspection team praised the zoo’s veterinary program, animal welfare practices, and overall operations.
“We are disappointed by the Commission’s decision, especially given the substantial improvements already made and those in progress,” Zoo Director Joe Montisano said. “This does not reflect the quality of care we provide or the guest experience we’ve worked hard to create.”
AZA evaluators pointed to aging infrastructure, including the South American Pavilion — one of the zoo’s oldest structures dating back to the 1960s, the City said.
Renovations to the pavilion’s roof and HVAC system have already been completed, with interior work scheduled to begin later this year, the City said.
The zoo is also replacing all older wooden railings with modern metal ones, beginning with the Asia section and continuing throughout the park, the City said.
“El Paso is proud of its Zoo and the exceptional care it provides to animals,” Mayor Renard Johnson said. “We stand behind the zoo’s efforts and are committed to addressing the issues raised in the review. I have no doubt the zoo will come back stronger and regain accreditation.”
City Manager Dionne Mack said the City has made a long-term investment in the zoo.
“Over the past decade, we’ve made major improvements through the 2012 bond program —including new exhibits, upgraded infrastructure, and enhanced guest amenities. The zoo remains a cornerstone of our community, and we are confident in its path forward,” Mack said.
The zoo will formally appeal the decision and, if necessary, reapply next year once additional facility upgrades are completed, the City said.
AZA accreditation is a voluntary process that evaluates institutions on rigorous standards in animal care, safety, education, and conservation, the City said.
The El Paso Zoo, which has held accreditation since 1980, is owned by the City of El Paso and also regulated by the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
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