Zoo receives AZA accreditation

LITTLE ROCK, AR – The Little Rock Zoo received accreditation Tuesday after concerns over its long-term financial stability caused its accreditation to be tabled in 2011.

Accreditation comes from the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA). The tabling of the Zoo's accreditation meant the Zoo still maintained accreditation but would be required to appear before the committee again the following year to report progress on major concerns of the committee.

The Zoo has been accredited since 2001. It will be up for accreditation again in 2016.

The Zoo says the 1 cent sales tax last September gives them $1.6 million for operations and $8 million over 10 years for capital improvements.