Upcoming Aquarium Events

Silver Spring, Maryland (March 12, 2008) - The Association of Zoos & Aquariums (AZA) today announced that Jenkinson’s Aquarium was granted accreditation by AZA's independent Accreditation Commission.

"Only the very best zoos and aquariums can meet tough Association of Zoos and Aquariums accreditation standards," said AZA President and CEO Jim Maddy. "The leadership and staff of Jenkinson’s Aquarium are to be congratulated for the hard work and commitment that they put into the accreditation process."

To be accredited, Jenkinson’s Aquarium underwent a thorough investigation to insure it has and will continue to meet ever-rising standards, which include animal care, veterinary programs, conservation, education, and safety. AZA requires zoos and aquariums to successfully complete this rigorous accreditation process in order to be members of the association, and are required to resubmit to this process every five years.

"Not only does Jenkinson’s Aquarium meet or exceed AZA's high standards, but it provides every visitor with a chance to connect to global wildlife conservation, " Maddy added. "Every member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums shares a strong commitment to animal care, professionalism, ethics, conservation, and education. In turn, they enrich the lives of their communities by developing significant wildlife education and conservation programs."

The mission of the AZA Accreditation Commission is to establish, uphold, and raise the highest zoological and aquarium industry standards through self-evaluation, on-site inspection, and peer review. The accreditation process includes a detailed application and a meticulous on-site inspection by a team of trained zoo and aquarium professionals. The inspecting team observes all aspects of the institution's operation in areas such as animal care (including living environment and daily enrichment), keeper training, safety for animals, staff, and visitors, educational programs, conservation efforts, veterinary programs, financial stability, risk management, visitor services, and other areas. The inspection team prepares an extensive written report for the Accreditation Commission. Finally, top officials are interviewed at a formal Commission hearing, after which accreditation is either granted, tabled, or denied. Any institution that is denied may reapply one year after the Commission's decision is made.
Founded in 1924, the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to the advancement of zoos and aquariums in the areas of conservation, education, science, and recreation. Look for the AZA logo whenever you visit a zoo or aquarium as your assurance that you are supporting an institution dedicated to providing excellent care for animals, a great experience for you, and a better future for all living things. With its more than 200 accredited members, the AZA is a leader in global wildlife conservation, and your link to helping animals in their native habitats. For more information, please visit www.aza.org.

Our Mission

Since 1991, Jenkinson’s Aquarium has dedicated itself to the education, conservation, and superior care of a diverse collection of life from aquatic habitats. We strive to provide our guests with a unique and memorable experience through creative exhibits as well as innovative educational and outreach programs.

Planning on Visiting the Aquarium

Please be advised that there is a large volume of school/camp groups in the building on Monday - Friday from 9:30am - 2pm. You may want to schedule your visit around these high volume times. Once you pay, your hand is stamped and you can return throughout the day.