Why Aquariums Matter

As an Association of Zoos and Aquariums accredited facility, the Oregon Coast Aquarium adheres to extraordinary standards while being part of a conservation-forward collective. The AZA is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization dedicated to the advancement of zoos and aquariums in the areas of conservation, education, science, and recreation. AZA represents more than 235 facilities in the United States and overseas, which collectively draw more than 200 million visitors every year. AZA-accredited zoos and aquariums meet the highest standards in animal care and welfare and provide a fun, safe, and educational family experience. In addition, they dedicate millions of dollars annually to support scientific research, conservation, and education programs.

Americans spend only 5% of the time they are awake in school and the other 95% of their awake time outside the school classroom. As outdoor classrooms and living laboratories, zoos and aquariums are ideal places to launch life-long learners and enhance public understanding of wildlife, ecosystems, and habitat conservation. Aquariums offer robust education programs staffed by trained and experienced educators who are familiar with formal education standards. These educators follow the latest trends, teaching techniques and changes to local, state, and national standards for education and ensure that the aquarium’s education materials and programs are aligned to those standards. The fields of science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) are integrated and readily incorporated into zoo and aquarium education programs and materials to reinforce classroom learning.

AZA-accredited aquariums coordinate, participate in, and provide financial support to projects that directly impact wildlife and wild places. They help save species by protecting habitat; captive breeding; conducting research to better understand diseases, supporting reserves, and advocating for better wildlife management and policies.

Aquariums are essential to wildlife rehabilitation efforts; many facilities provide space, support, and even long-term care to vulnerable, stranded, and injured animals. The Aquarium is one of three wildlife rehabilitation facilities in the Pacific Northwest, and the only one in Oregon, authorized by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to provide specialized care to endangered marine life.

Why Aquariums Matter

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