CARLSBAD, Calif. — Hubbs-SeaWorld Research Institute (HSWRI) will celebrate a major milestone in marine conservation on Thursday, April 2nd, with the ceremonial release of the three-millionth coded-wire-tagged white seabass raised for its Ocean Resources Enhancement and Hatchery Program.
The invitation-only event, “3 Million for the Sea,” will take place from 10:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the Institute’s Leon Raymond Hubbard, Jr. Marine Fish Hatchery at 4200 Garfield St., Carlsbad, CA. Community members, program partners, and supporters are invited to attend the celebration and witness the release of juvenile white seabass into the ocean.
This milestone is shared in partnership with the California Department of Fish and Wildlife and the Coastal Conservation Association – California, reflecting decades of collaboration to restore and sustain California’s coastal fisheries.
For decades, scientists at HSWRI have been raising juvenile white seabass and releasing them into Southern California waters to help rebuild and sustain the wild population. Each fish released through the program carries a tiny, coded wire tag – a minute identifier that allows researchers to track survival, movement, and the long-term contribution of hatchery-raised fish to the wild fishery.
Reaching the 3-millionth tagged fish represents a significant achievement for the long-running program and highlights the role of science-based aquaculture in supporting healthy marine ecosystems and sustainable fisheries.
“Releasing the three-millionth tagged white seabass is a remarkable milestone that reflects decades of dedicated work and the power of collaboration between scientists, conservationists, and our community,” said Rep. Mike Levin. “The Hubbs-SeaWorld Research Institute continues to lead the way in marine science
and conservation, and this achievement shows what we can accomplish through dedicated research and protection of our ocean ecosystems. I am pleased that the Institute is committed to advancing sustainable aquaculture, and I look forward to the incredible research yet to come.”
“This milestone reflects decades of collaboration among scientists, fishers, resource
managers, and community partners who share a commitment to restoring and sustaining our coastal fisheries,” said Mark Drawbridge, Director of the Institute’s Sustainable Seafood Program.
“We’re proud to celebrate the progress made so far and look forward to continuing this work for the benefit of
future generations.”
The event will include brief remarks from Institute leadership and program partners followed by the ceremonial fish release. Attendees can also tour the hatchery, meet researchers, and learn how scientists raise, tag, and monitor juvenile fish before they are released into the ocean.
In addition, HSWRI will share plans for its Blue Foods Innovation Laboratory, a new initiative within its Center of Excellence in Marine Aquaculture. The laboratory will accelerate the development of sustainable seafood production and further position California as a leader in marine aquaculture innovation.
Event Details
What: 3 Million for the Sea – Celebration of the 3 millionth tagged white
seabass release
When: Thursday, April 2 | 10:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Where: Leon Raymond Hubbard, Jr. Marine Fish Hatchery, 4200 Garfield St.,
Carlsbad, CA
Activities: Program remarks, ceremonial fish release, hatchery tours, and light refreshments
For more information or to RSVP, contact Liz Gagneron (lgagneron@hswri.org).
About Hubbs-SeaWorld Research Institute: Thriving Oceans for a Healthier World
Hubbs-SeaWorld Research Institute (HSWRI) is a non-profit, scientific research organization committed to conserving and renewing marine life to ensure a healthier planet. Since our founding in 1963, our mission has been to return to the sea some measure of the benefits derived from it. Our team of experts
provides innovative and objective scientific solutions to challenges threatening ocean health and marine life in our rapidly changing world. From California to Florida, we conduct applied research that informs conservation, supports sustainable fisheries, advances aquaculture, and rescues and rehabilitates marine
animals in need.
Learn more at www.hswri.org
