Photo: Grahm S. Jones
COLUMBUS, Ohio (WTVN)--An appeal of the loss of accreditation for the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium has been denied by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums.
New Zoo President and CEO Tom Schmid participated in the zoo's appeal, with the accreditation revoked in July. The zoo had requested it be kept, or at the very least have the appeal tabled until 2022.
The AZA inspected the zoo in July, with the loss of accreditation due to the misuse of funds by former zoo executives, and concerns about the acquisition of animals in outreach programs.
The zoo can apply for accreditation again in the fall of 2022. The zoo says all operations will remain intact, and the visitor experience will not be affected by the decision.