Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo Arboretum in Bridgeport has been awarded a Level 1 Accreditation by The ArbNet Arboretum Accreditation Program and The Morton Arboretum, for achieving particular standards of professional practices deemed important for arboreta and botanic gardens. The ArbNet Arboretum Accreditation Program is the only global initiative to officially recognize arboreta at various levels of development, capacity and professionalism. The Arboretum is also now recognized as an accredited arboretum in the Morton Register of Arboreta, a database of the world’s arboreta and gardens dedicated to woody plants.
Sitting on 51 acres of trees within Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo (CBZ), plantings in the Arboretum reflect a goal of building collections for wildlife value, as well as aesthetic appreciation, with sustainable maintenance and ecological awareness as guiding principles. The Arboretum focuses on native plantings as much as possible to help pollinators, migratory birds and smaller mammals that live on property.
“This accreditation recognizes the zoo’s commitment to the preservation of all living things,” Zoo Director Gregg Dancho said. “Much time, energy and work go into the conservation of the trees and plants on zoo grounds, and we look forward to using this accreditation to encourage further education and awareness in our community.”
Zoo arboretums have unique and creative opportunities when curating their collections such as mimicking the natural habitats that animals live in. Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo has more than 350 animals represented that are primarily from North and South America and Northern Asian species. Most recently, the zoo’s horticulture team has mimicked the high altitudes of the Andes with evergreen and shade trees in the new Andean bear habitat.
Over the next few years, CBZ Arboretum plans on diversifying the variety of trees on property. “We are currently working with partners in our community to both celebrate this accomplishment and amplify our voices in the mission we share.” Horticulture Manager Jonathan Dancho said. “This spring, guests can expect new activities at the zoo’s annual Party for the Planet event as well as tree plantings on Arbor Day.”
Beardsley Park’s design was done by Frederick Law Olmsted, a famous architect known for creating New York City’s Central Park and Bridgeport’s Seaside Park. Olmstead was contracted by the city back in 1881 and described the existing land as “pastoral, sylvan and idyllic.” Olmstead’s design showcased the site’s large trees, hilltop views, boulder outcroppings and sloping meadows.
As an accredited member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) and participant in its Species Survival Plan (SSP) programs, the nonprofit zoo is committed to the preservation of endangered animals and wild habitats. Tickets must be purchased on the zoo’s website at beardsleyzoo.org.
