Recognition and Awards
We are proud to be the country’s only Canadian Accredited Zoos and Aquariums (CAZA) free-admission facility.
The CAZA logo displayed alongside a zoo or aquarium’s name signifies excellence in animal care and management and a commitment to conservation and education. We were most recently accredited in 2019.
Peter Karsten In-situ Conservation Award 2009
This award recognizes institutional achievement in the field of in-situ conservation. Presented to Riverview Park and Zoo for developing and supporting the Kawartha Turtle Trauma Centre (KTTC), now known as the Ontario Turtle Conservation Centre, which provides medical, surgical and rehabilitative care to injured turtles from anywhere in Ontario. It is a significant contribution to Canada’s conservation movement, brought together by concerned citizens, corporations and governments to work together in a common cause.
Colonel G.C. Dailey Conservation Award 2017
This national award recognized Riverview Park and Zoo’s excellence in species propagation for the Sulawesi Forest Turtle. It is estimated that fewer than 100 of this unique freshwater turtle, native to the Indonesian island of Sulawesi, exist in the wild. Illegal exportation for the pet trade, poaching for food and severe habitat loss are the major factors threatening the species. We are one of a handful of North American organizations who have successfully bred these rare and little-known chelonians.
Professional Award 2019
Steve Thexton, Park and Zoo Supervisor (now retired), was the recipient of the Canada's Accredited Zoos and Aquariums (CAZA) Professional Award in September 2019. The award was presented in recognition of his 30 years of dedication to service, vision and development of the Riverview Park & Zoo. This award recognizes innovation and significant contribution to the zoo and aquarium field by permanent staff employed at a CAZA institutional or educational affiliate member.
Conservation Partnership Award 2020
The Park and Zoo has also been recognized by our partners at Otonabee Conservation, for the co-delivery of the Roberta Bondar Photography Challenge. This program engages youth participants to refocus the camera lens on nature. Students learn digital photography skills and have an opportunity to apply these skills as they explore Riverview Park and Zoo and Warsaw Caves Conservation Area. Other partnership programs with Otonabee Conservation recognized are habitat enhancement projects including the Riverview Creek Restoration Project, shoreline naturalization and invasive species management.
Spirit Award Best Attraction 2020
We were voted by thousands of Peterborough residents as the area's Spirit Award winner for Best Attraction. Thank you Peterborough! The awards were hosted by Peterborough and the Kawarthas Economic Development and Oldies 96.7, Attracting nearly a quarter million visitors per year, from all over the province, we are proud to be the top rated family tourist destination for locals and visitors to Peterborough City and County.
