Zoo and Aquarium Infrastructure Projects Important to Communities
Dec 19, 2008Silver Spring, MD - The
Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) today called for shovel-ready
zoo and aquarium infrastructure projects to be eligible for Federal
stimulus funding.
According to a 2008 national public opinion survey 79 percent of
Americans believe that zoos and aquariums are good for their local
economy, and an impressive 80 percent believe that zoos and aquariums
are important enough to local communities to be supported by government
funding.
Zoos and Aquariums Essential To American Economy
"Zoos and aquariums are woven into the fabric of American life,"
said AZA President and CEO Jim Maddy. "They are viewed by the public as
important to the quality of life in their communities."
Many zoos have their roots in the Great Depression, when the Federal
Work Projects Administration (WPA) helped build many zoos across
America. In more recent times, aquariums have been successful anchors
of waterfront renewal and development.
AZA-accredited zoos and aquariums enhance local and regional
economies, collectively generating $7.6 billion in annual economic
activity and supporting more than 100,000 jobs.
Local Economic Engines and Centers for Education
"Zoos and aquariums will deliver incredible value for the Federal
government," added Maddy. "Investment in these institutions will
pay-off twice, first in immediate job creation, and second, in the
environmental education of our children for years to come."
Two hundred and six U.S.-based AZA-accredited zoos and aquariums
attracted more than 170 million visitors in 2007, up 9 percent from
2006. Approximately 50 million visitors were children, making
accredited zoos and aquariums some of the best places for families to
connect with nature and each other.
About AZA
Founded in 1924, the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) is a
nonprofit 501(c)(3) 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.
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