Virginia Aquarium is Awarded Accredation by Alliance of Marine Mammal Parks and Aquariums (AMMPA)

By Joan Barns 

Virginia Beach, VA - The Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center has earned accreditation by the Alliance of Marine Mammal Parks and Aquariums, an international organization representing the greatest body of professional expertise and knowledge regarding marine mammal care and veterinary medicine.

Only marine life parks, aquariums, zoos and research facilities that meet the Alliance’s rigid standards and guidelines are granted accreditation. The Alliance accreditation committee made the announcement at the organization’s annual meeting in April.

“Earning accreditation by the Alliance means the Virginia Aquarium goes above and beyond the standards required by government regulation in caring for marine mammals,” said Executive Director Marilee Menard. “The Alliance is proud of its members and the enormous contributions they make in marine mammal care, conservation and education.” 

The Virginia Aquarium features in its collection harbor seals. To earn accreditation an institution is inspected by a team of marine mammal professionals. The team evaluates all aspects of the organization’s operation, including animal care areas and programs; behavioral enrichment; veterinary care and diets; the physical facilities; and marine mammal public education and conservation programs. The Aquarium received its first accreditation in 2004. Alliance member facilities are required to participate in a re-accreditation of their facility five years from the date of their previous inspection.

The Alliance of Marine Mammal Parks and Aquariums is an international association representing marine life parks, aquariums, zoos, research facilities, and professional organizations dedicated to the highest standards of care for marine mammals and to their conservation in the wild through public education, scientific study, and wildlife presentations. For more information about the AMMPA, visit www.ammpa.org

Virginia Aquarium, It's a Life Experience . . .
717 General Booth Blvd.
Virginia Beach, VA 23451

To view Virginia Aquarium's web page on Zoo and Aquarium Visitor, go to: http://www.zandavisitor.com/forumtopicdetail-136-Virginia_Aquarium_and_Marine_Science_Center