Gaby And Teresa From The Central Coast Aquarium in California

Stickers on the Mic Podcast

Gaby and Teresa from The Central Coast Aquarium in Avila Beach, California, joined us to talk about how this nonprofit organization provides education and engagement with San Luis Obispo County’s marine habitats and estuarine environments. For 25 years, The Central Coast Aquarium has been a community resource with interactive exhibits, outdoor activities, and laboratory lessons for all ages, and has served over 23,000 visitors and 4,500 school students each year. The Central Coast Aquarium serves as a home to over 75 different species of local San Luis Obispo County marine life including sea stars, decorator crabs, swell sharks, moon jellies and, from time to time, a Giant Pacific Octopus. As the ocean spans across nearly three-quarters of the Earth’s surface, this small sample of animals represent only a fragment of the oceanic life that depends on the health and cleanliness of our oceans. Specifically focusing on the diversity of the waters off the coast of San Luis Obispo County, their exhibits highlight the fascinating adaptations these creatures develop to survive and thrive in the seas, just footsteps away in Avila Bay. Through this work, the Central Coast Aquarium has cultivated a community dedicated to ocean stewardship through education, engagement, and action. Listen in to hear about how the aquarium is growing its offerings and creating connections for visitors of all kinds.