Wildlife Safari Plans Improvements After Losing AZA Accreditation

WINSTON, Ore. - Wildlife Safari says it has begun making improvements and is working toward regaining accreditation after the Association of Zoos and Aquariums declined to grant the park continued accreditation.

In a statement released November 2, the nonprofit wildlife park said it is addressing issues identified during the review process, including operational and facility infrastructure improvements. The statement did not detail the specific concerns behind AZA’s decision or provide a timeline for completing the work.

Wildlife Safari said it is participating in AZA’s Pathway Toward Membership Program, using the association’s guidance and resources to prepare for future accreditation.

“While we are disappointed in this outcome, we are focused on the future,” said Pat Markham, chairman of Wildlife Safari’s board of directors. “We are committed to making the necessary improvements and look forward to earning accreditation once again.”

Dr. Benji Alcantar, the park’s lead veterinarian, said veterinary and animal care staff are taking the findings seriously.

“The health and welfare of the animals in our care remain our highest priority,” Alcantar said. “Our veterinary and animal care teams remain dedicated to providing excellent care. We recognize the importance of the accreditation process and take the concerns identified by AZA seriously.”

The park also emphasized its continuing work in cheetah conservation. According to Wildlife Safari, its program supports breeding, research and public education, while cheetah ambassador presentations introduce thousands of visitors each year to the challenges the species faces in the wild.

Wildlife Safari said it plans to continue investing in those efforts and working with conservation partners.

Markham thanked community members for their support following the accreditation decision.

“The encouragement we have received from everyone means a great deal to us,” he said. “We sincerely thank our community for standing with us as we move forward.”

The park said it intends to share updates on its progress.

Wildlife Safari occupies 600 acres in Winston and includes a 4.5-mile drive-through route. According to the release, the park remains open daily from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

More information is available at wildlifesafari.net or by calling Guest Services at 541-679-6761, extension 3203.