almost 200 North American competitors to win a prestigious award.

The American Zoo and Aquarium Association (AZA) presented BAMZ and its support charity, the Bermuda Zoological Society (BZS), with the Regional Conservation Award for their Bermuda Biodiversity Project at its recent annual meeting.

The award recognises outstanding dedication to conservation issues and the development of natural resources and marks a significant achievement for BAMZ, said Project Leader Anne Glasspool, as it was competing against conservation initiatives in the 184 accredited zoos and aquariums across North America.

Amongst them were the San Diego Zoo -- widely considered to be one of the best zoos in the world -- and The National Aviary and the Audubon Institute.

Dr. Glasspool said the award truly reflected the community involvement in the project.

"It is heartening for our team to be involved in a project which brings Government and private resources together to focus on the conservation of the Island's precious natural resources,'' she said.

Bermuda Aquarium receives an outstanding honour encompassing, not just focussing on the biological component, but also addressing the human needs and impacts.

"Striking a balance between scientific research, community participation and education, management oriented information synthesis and field conservation is an ongoing challenge, and we are particularly overjoyed with the judges' comments which reaffirm the direction we have taken.'' Those comments included: "This is a model programme and represents a massive coordination and partnering effort -- cooperation exceptional. The tasks and goals of the project appear to be all encompassing.

"This project is a model for conservation on a local level.'' It was also described as "a well thought out multidisciplinary programme measuring the biodiversity of an entire ecosystem''.

AZA Honours and Awards Committee chairman John Chapo added that "special recognition should be given to the BAMZ/BZS for their Biodiversity Project because it is exemplary in its achievements, successful, collaborative and effective, and is being accomplished on a small budget''.

The latest award is the third to have been presented to BAMZ/BZS by the AZA during the six years the facility has been an accredited member of the organisation.

Principal Curator Jack Ward praised the entire BAMZ/BZS team for their commitment and dedication and promised that they would remain committed to promoting conservation and education.

He was joined by Environment Minister Arthur Hodgson who added that he was particularly pleased that the community partnership in the project was recognised.

AWARD AWD