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Species management benchmarking: outcomes over outputs in a changing operating environment
Carolyn J Hogg1, Chris Hibbard, Claire Ford
1Zoo and Aquarium Association Australasia - Sydney, Australia. carolyn@zooaquarium.org.au
Zoo Biology
|August 15, 2012
Summary
Zoo and aquarium species management programs improved significantly after implementing a new benchmarking tool. The Health Check Report (HCR) enhanced program oversight, leading to fewer weak programs and more excellent ones.
Area of Science:
- Conservation Biology
- Zoological Management
- Population Viability Analysis
Background:
- Species management in zoos and aquariums is crucial for maintaining genetic and demographic viability.
- Evolving zoo environments and maturing managed programs necessitated a review of existing management strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the effectiveness of a newly developed benchmarking tool, the Health Check Report (HCR), for assessing zoo and aquarium species management programs.
- To identify areas for improvement in program resourcing, policies, and processes.
Main Methods:
- A benchmarking tool (HCR) was developed to evaluate programs against defined criteria.
- A comparative analysis of 98 managed programs was conducted between 2008 and 2011 to assess the HCR's impact.
- Improvements in administrative areas like report submission and management plan development were tracked.
Main Results:
- A significant decrease in 'weak' programs (from 37 to 13) and an increase in 'excellent' programs (from 24 to 49) were observed.
- Substantial improvements were noted in administrative aspects across various taxon advisory groups.
- The HCR effectively facilitated rapid program assessment and the application of remedial measures.
Conclusions:
- The Health Check Report (HCR) is an effective tool for assessing and improving species management programs in zoos and aquariums.
- The observed improvements were primarily driven by the attainment of increased management goals.
- The HCR will be refined continuously to address emerging challenges and enhance program outcomes.
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