The document is the 2006 annual report for the Aquarium of the Pacific. It provides an overview of the aquarium's exhibitions, educational programming, events, conservation efforts, volunteers, fundraising, contributors, and finances for the year. Some highlights include the debut of new exhibitions on venomous creatures and marine debris, educational programs that reached almost 200,000 students, expansion of partnerships with local schools and universities, and hosting conferences on ocean literacy and conservation.

1. aquarium of the pacific
2 0 0 6 A N N U A L R E P O R T

2. Table of Contents
3 Introduction
5 Message from the President and Chairman
6 Tribute to Warren Iliff
8 Exhibitions
10 Educational Programming
12 Festivals and Events
14 Marine Conservation Research Institute
19 Sustainable Practices
20 Volunteers
23 Fundraising
28 Aquarium Contributors
32 Financial Overview
34 Board Members and Officers
ANNUAL REPORT STAFF
Alexi Holford, editor and writer
Andrew Reitsma, graphic designer
Cecile Fisher, editorial advisor and copy editor
2006 annual report
CELEBRATING OUR PLANET’S LARGEST and most
diverse body of water, the Aquarium of the Pacific in
Long Beach, California is the only aquarium in the
world to focus solely on the Pacific Ocean.
Featuring 12,500 animals that represent 500 species,
the Aquarium of the Pacific highlights these ocean
ambassadors and their habitats in more than 50
exhibits and hundreds of programs. The goal is to
bring awareness of the importance of the ocean to not
only the animals that live there, but also to each and
every person on our planet. Most importantly, the
Aquarium achieves this through uniquely connecting
and celebrating California’s diverse ethnic communities.
Thanks to a donation from Mike Cabrera of Ace Commercial, Inc., this annual report is printed
on 100% post-consumer recycled paper. To further conserve our natural resources, additional
copies of this report are available online at the Aquarium’s website.
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3. message from the president and chairman
POINT CONCEPTION
SAN MIGUEL SANTA CRUZ
ANACAPA
LOS ANGELES
SANTA ROSA
LONG BEACH E ARE PLEASED TO REPORT that 2006 was another productive year for the Aquarium of the
SANTA BARBARA
SANTA CATALINA
W Pacific. We had our fifth consecutive year of attendance increases, ending the year at 1.35 million
visitors. Membership held steady at more than 40,000 active households, which is more than
100,000 individual members. Our educational programming reached almost 200,000 schoolchildren
while we expanded our presence at Cesar Chavez Elementary School, California State University at both the
Long Beach and Dominguez Hills campuses, the Upper Newport Bay Ecological Preserve, in homeschooling,
SAN NICOLAS and on a number of other fronts.
On the financial front, we successfully met the challenge of our first year of increased rent payment to the
City of Long Beach. Another challenge was the rising cost of gasoline, which affects the patronage of zoos,
theme parks, and cultural institutions.
We increased our efforts in ocean education and conservation. In June 2006 a two-day national Conference
on Ocean Literacy (CoOL) was held in Washington, D.C. to carry out the recommendations identified in the
SAN CLEMENTE
President’s U.S. Ocean Action Plan. As the West Coast site of five concurrent regional conferences participating
in CoOL via satellite, the Aquarium of the Pacific brought together 119 participants to respond to the national
recommendations with regard to our regional concerns.
With a population of more than 35 million, California has a great responsibility to contribute to a healthy
ocean. To address ocean issues, the California and World Ocean Conference ‘06 took place in Long Beach in
September. The emphasis was on making connections among researchers, managers, policy makers, and the
general public to positively influence the relationships of humans with the ocean. Aquarium staff organized
ENSENADA several sessions and participated as speakers in others. The Aquarium hosted the closing reception of CWO
‘06. It was a sold out event that featured sustainable seafood provided by our Sustainable Seafood Forum. The
Aquarium continues to make conservation through stewardship an important and integral part of our mission.
The Southern California Bight is the bay formed by the indention of the coastline from Point Conception to just below Ensenada, a distance of 186 miles (300 km). This area
is significant because of complex circulation patterns that may affect our weather and its abundance of natural resources. The Southern California Bight also faces particular On a personal note, we were saddened by the loss of Founding President Warren Iliff. His buoyant spirit and
threats and challenges due to human activities. dedication were an inspiration to us all.
The creativity and hard work of the Aquarium staff and board have contributed to another year of success.
We thank you for your interest in the Aquarium of the Pacific. As you learn more about us on the pages of this
annual report, know that we are already building on what we have accomplished this year for a future that is
strong and bright.
BRINGING OCEAN LITERACY AND AWARENESS of environmental concerns such as
Sincerely,
global warming and sustainable seafood to its 1.35 million annual visitors and
beyond, the Aquarium has broadened its role to also encompass the presentation of
Jerry R. Schubel, president and CEO
science and conservation issues in ways that are accessible to the general public.
Howard Chambers, chairman, Board of Directors
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4. in memory
Warren J. Iliff, 1936-2006
THE AQUARIUM OF THE PACIFIC REACHED the end of
an era with the passing of Warren Iliff on August 5, 2006.
Staff and friends of the Aquarium think back with appre-
ciation for his kindness, his humor, his friendship, and
with respect for all that he achieved as our founding president and CEO.
Iliff was born in Madison, Wisconsin on November 5, 1936. Long before
the start of his official career in the zoo and aquarium world, Iliff’s love of
nature was revealed in the jungles of Central America, where he worked
as a pilot. There, his backyard was filled with monkeys, parrots, and other
exotic creatures. He had a deep love for animals and the environment.
Iliff launched his zoo and aquarium career at the National Zoo in
Washington, D.C. as a special assistant to the director from 1963-1967,
executive director of the Friends of the National Zoo from 1967-1969,
and the assistant director for education and exhibits from 1969-1971. Ghislaine and Warren Iliff
From Washington, D.C., he moved to the Oregon Zoo in Portland,
where he served as director from 1975-1983. He was then director at
the Dallas Zoo and Aquarium from 1983-1990. Iliff served as president
of the American Zoo and Aquarium Association (AZA) from 1986-1987
after having served on numerous committees. Following the Dallas
Zoo, Iliff moved on to a position as executive director of the Phoenix
Zoo from 1990-1996.
In 1996 Iliff came to the Aquarium of the Pacific. He arrived two
years before the Aquarium opened and was an integral part of getting
the Aquarium off the ground and running. His enthusiasm was key to
attracting supporters and getting the community on board. He made
the Aquarium of the Pacific a special place to work and visit, a symbol
of community outreach, and a destination where the wonder and magic
of the Pacific Ocean come alive.
In June of 2002 Iliff retired from his post as the Aquarium of the
Pacific’s founding president and CEO and was officially named president
emeritus. “During his tenure, Iliff served as an incredible leader and
visionary, whose energy and enthusiasm elevated the Aquarium of the
Pacific to become a leading aquarium and community resource,” said
Jerry Schubel.
Iliff will be remembered at the Aquarium of the Pacific and beyond.
The Warren Iliff Splash Zone is a classroom where children will continue
“DURING HIS TENURE, Iliff served as an incredible to be excited and educated about marine education. Our recognition
listing of education donors in the Great Hall is dedicated to Warren’s
leader and visionary, whose energy and enthusiasm memory as well. Thanks to the support of donors at the Aquarium
of the Pacific, we have established an endowment—The Iliff Infectious
elevated the Aquarium of the Pacific to become a Enthusiasm Fund. This fund will honor his passion for education and
conservation and inspire it in others for generations to come. He shall
leading aquarium and community resource.” surely be missed by us all.
– Jerry Schubel
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5. new exhibitions
Dazzling and Dangerous—Venomous Creatures New Animals
DAZZLING touch pool allowed guests to touch these The Aquarium is grateful for the many IN 2006 THE AQUARIUM of shallow areas. But bull sharks are also life is devastating, and deadly evidence can
AND DANGEROUS— animals while learning about their predomi- partnerships that helped to make this the Pacific put two new ani- impacted by human activities in their be found in the stomachs of many animals,
VENOMOUS CREATURES nance in nearby Seal Beach waters and how exhibition possible. Brent Karner, the director mals on display: a bull shark inshore habitats and are at risk from from birds to whales. Marine debris is also
debuted in the summer to avoid them with the “sting ray shuffle.” of the Insect Zoo at the Natural History and a bowmouth guitarfish. Both animals are longline fisheries. By featuring animals one of the most preventable environmental
of 2006. The new yearlong exhibition high- Kids enjoyed peeking inside a log to find Museum of Los Angeles County, and Russ of particular note because of their intrinsic such as our bull shark in Shark Lagoon, the threats, and suggestions on what the
lighted a wide variety of both aquatic and a noisy rattlesnake replica hidden within. Smith, curator of reptiles at the Los Angeles beauty, but also because of their significance Aquarium hopes to dispel some of the myths public can do were included in the exhibit.
land animals that were either venomous or New animals were added to each of the Zoo, provided a great deal of assistance, as ambassadors for their species. surrounding these important ocean predators.
poisonous. From the blue-ringed octopus,
lionfish, scorpionfish, barracuda, and sea
Aquarium’s galleries and highlighted with
special signs. The Passport visitor’s guide
from loaning animals to the Aquarium to
training our staff in husbandry care and
The bowmouth guitarfish (Rhina
ancylostoma) went on display in January
Planet Ocean
kraits of the Pacific Ocean to the Mexican was coordinated with the galleries and safety procedures. Sean Bush from Loma and resides in the Tropical Reef exhibit in the
Marine Debris THE AQUARIUM OF THE
redknee tarantula, scorpions, Gila monsters, further focused on the venomous and Linda University helped with advice on Tropical Gallery. The Aquarium of the Pacific OCTOBER 2006 was Little PACIFIC debuted a new
and rattlesnakes of Southern California and poisonous creatures the guests would emergency protocols and provided some is the only aquarium on the West Coast to Mermaid Month at the film, Planet Ocean, at the
Baja, Dazzling and Dangerous taught guests encounter in various exhibits. Special vials of antivenin for display. Tammie display this unique species found in the Aquarium of the Pacific, annual Ocean Conservation Awards Gala
to respect and conserve these important guest lectures that built on the theme Brailsford from Long Beach Memorial tropical and subtropical coastal waters which coincided with the release of The in June. The four-and-a-half minute video
and often misunderstood animals. of venom were offered throughout the Medical Center provided materials for a and offshore reefs of Australia. It is also Little Mermaid on 2-Disk Platinum Edition played daily in the Great Hall of the Pacific,
To create Dazzling and Dangerous, the summer. Venom: The Tour! took guests display of a new medicine derived from found in the Indo-Pacific and off the coast DVD. In conjunction, the Aquarium planned and provided a compelling overview of the
Aquarium’s changing gallery transformed behind the scenes to get the inside scoop the Gila monster used in the treatment of West Africa. The Aquarium’s guitarfish is a numerous programs to talk about trash in ocean. Explaining that the Earth’s surface is
overnight from an aquatic environment to on venom and poison and offered a of Type II diabetes. Lee Katz loaned the male and measures four feet (1.2 m) in length. our ocean, including a scavenger hunt, 71% water, the film features footage from
the dark corners of a garage, where spiders chance to get up close and personal Aquarium the California newts and provided A bull shark (Carcharhinus leucas) was an interactive program in the Marine Life NOAA (National Oceanic and Atmospheric
and snakes lurked. A 16-foot-long round ray with some of the animals that use them. us with information about the animals. introduced to Shark Lagoon in October. Theater, and a film on marine debris shown Administration) and Boeing. Starting from
Mary Jane Adams and Ken Kurtis contributed Weighing 36 pounds (16.3 kg), our bull shark in the Honda Theater. The Little Mermaid outer space and narrowing in on underwater
numerous photographs of venomous sea is a female and was estimated to be about film was shown to members in the Honda vents, the film zeroes in on Earth’s topogra-
creatures. Countless other individuals two-and-a-half years old when she made Theater. To illustrate the focus of marine phy and shows that we use the ocean in a
and organizations also contributed time her debut. Found in all tropical and subtrop- debris, a net of trash was hung from the myriad of ways. The film’s narrator speaks
and effort into helping to make Dazzling ical waters along the coastlines, the bull ceiling of the Aquarium’s Great Hall, with of how the ocean supplies seafood, medicine,
and Dangerous—Venomous Creatures shark is the only shark that can also live in accompanying signs to explain its signifi- and other natural resources that we rely
a success. freshwater lakes and rivers. Bull sharks tend cance. More than 17 million pounds of on and serves as a means of transportation.
The Aquarium acknowledges the to hunt for food in shallow, murky waters. trash were collected from Long Beach Planet Ocean provided a glimpse into the
financial support of the Annenberg This may contribute to some of the concerns beaches in 2005, and the trash in the net big picture and how human activity can
Foundation and American Honda Motor about this species being a threat to humans, represented a mere 0.000017% of this have a definite impact.
Co., Inc., official sponsors of the Dazzling as bull sharks are known to swim in very amount. The impact of this trash on marine
and Dangerous exhibition.
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6. educational programming
Learn by Doing
NATIONAL STUDENT SUMMIT
THE AQUARIUM CESAR E. CHAVEZ and content are finalized, copies of received an intensive introduction to the DAY CAMPS ON OCEANS AND COASTS
OF THE PACIFIC ELEMENTARY SCHOOL each kit will be constructed and made Aquarium and Southern California's diverse Ten weeks of summer day camps were The Coastal America Partnership hosted
BELIEVES that The Aquarium’s partnership with Cesar E. available for teachers to check out from marine habitats and ecosystems. Guided offered in 2006. This included six weeks its second annual National Student Summit
children learn best Chavez Elementary School in Long Beach the Aquarium Resource Center or the tours, standards-based activities, and a field of Ocean Adventure Camp for students on Oceans and Coasts in Washington D.C.
through interactive continued for its second year in 2006. Science/Math Resource Center in Long trip to Catalina Island provided teachers in grades 2-4 and four weeks of Junior in December 2006. The conference brought
experiences. The Forty-eight times over the course of the Beach. One kit will remain permanently with an up-close look at California marine Biologist Camp for students in grades 5-7. together formal and informal educators
“learn by doing” year, Aquarium educators visited the at Chavez Elementary School. life. At the end of the trip, each teacher was In addition, the Aquarium offered two new and offered high school students unique
approach is evident school to teach grade-specific science given a 20-gallon aquarium to take back to camp options for younger students: a access to national ocean leaders. As a
in all of the Aquarium’s educational pro- classes, many of which have an emphasis AQUARIUM ON WHEELS their classroom to share with their students. three-day Fish Fry Camp for 3- and 4-year- Coastal Ecosystem Learning Center (CELC),
gramming. Whether in a classroom or on marine education. In March 2006 an The Aquarium on Wheels outreach vehicle olds with their parent and a three-day the Aquarium is a member of the Coastal
theater setting, students make discoveries ocean-themed mural created by more contains a dynamic tidepool exhibit BOEING TEACHER OPEN HOUSE Sea Squirt Camp designed for 5- and 6- America Partnership. Each CELC was invited
of marine life through hands-on sensory than 25 fourth- and fifth-grade students designed to provide fun hands-on learning In October the annual Boeing Teacher year-olds. Also new was the introduction to select four students, one teacher, and one
oriented activities. In 2006 the Aquarium’s was unveiled. Sponsored by American experiences. Thanks to funding in 2006 Open House was attended by 1,200 of a Catalina Family Camp. This camp pro- CELC representative. Aquarium President
onsite education programs reached almost Honda Motor Co., Inc. in partnership with from the Water Replenishment District teachers who enjoyed a night devoted to vided an opportunity for the entire family to Jerry Schubel, Aquarium Educator Catherine
200,000 individuals. Of these, 22,300 the Aquarium of the Pacific, the mural of Southern California, a new program science education. Aquarium classroom travel to Catalina with Aquarium educators Fox, and four students from Long Beach
visited and participated in educational project was both a learning tool and an called It All Flows to Me on the Road was and theater programs were demonstrated, for a special week of marine science. Polytechnic High School (Elizabeth Paniagua,
programs free-of-charge, reflecting a aesthetic enhancement for the school. introduced in which students “pollute” and the Aquarium on Wheels was on display. Chanel Washington, Edward Benford, and
15% increase in scholarships over the a large-scale model of a watershed and HOMESCHOOL DAY Anthony Chavez) represented Long Beach
prior year. OUT OF THE BOX SCIENCE! witness the consequences after they AQUATIC ACADEMY In 2006 the Aquarium offered its first-ever at the four-day event. The students presented
The Aquarium’s education department Thanks to a generous grant from the LeBurta "make it rain." By seeing the movement The Aquarium offers lectures, panel Homeschool Day on November 10. The their project on non-point source pollution
offers more than 100 onsite educational Atherton Foundation, the Aquarium’s of water through the mock-up watershed, discussions, and adult classes through its day was devoted to creating learning (litter and runoff) in Long Beach in their
programs for the public and school education department produced three participants make the link between water- Aquatic Academy. In 2006 California and environments for homeschool families with speeches to other CELC delegations from
groups. In addition, they host a variety Out of the Box Science! education kits for sheds, ground water, and pollution. In 2006 Water, which was sponsored by the Long special programs and hands-on exploration across the country. Upon their return,
of outreach programs such as Aquarium testing at Chavez Elementary School in the the Aquarium on Wheels traveled 11,500 Beach Water Department, was offered in areas. This event brought in an audience the students made presentations to the
on Wheels; distance learning at California fall of 2006. The kits contain props, videos, miles and served more than 43,350 people. March. California and the Ocean was of more than 2,500 parents and children. Aquarium’s Board of Directors and the
State University, Dominguez Hills; and lesson plans, and other materials neces- offered for the first time in October. Both Long Beach City Council. These students
a customized science education partner- sary to teach a specific science concept in BOEING TEACHER INSTITUTE courses offered opportunities to hear from are actively continuing their work through
ship with Cesar E. Chavez Elementary. an interesting and relevant manner. Each Twenty-seven teachers joined Aquarium a selection of experts on environmental a group called the Green Student Union at
All of the Aquarium’s education programs kit has a theme of either sharks, marine educators for a week of hands-on learning issues as they related to California. For a Long Beach Polytechnic High School. Students
are aligned with the California state science mammals, or watershed education. Once during the Boeing Teacher Institute in list of 2006 lectures, see page 13. from the Green Student Union participated in
standards. the prototypes are tested and the design August. Throughout the week, participants the Aquarium’s annual street cleanup.
10 11

7. festivals guest speaker series
CULTURAL AND COMMUNITY FESTIVALS are held throughout the year at the Aquarium of the Pacific to reach out to and THE AQUARIUM OF THE PACIFIC is an educational resource for all ages. In addition to offering a full array of classes and
honor the rich diversity of Southern California. programs for children, the Aquarium provides a venue for quality educational opportunities for adults. A facilitator of
important discussions relating to our ocean and planet, the Aquarium’s lecture series draws scientists, researchers,
photographers, filmmakers, and authors from across the country to speak to audiences about topics important for today and tomorrow.
Festival of Human Abilities Cinco de Mayo Southeast Asia Day Cindi Alvitre, Julie Bixby, Steven Erie Gerald Lieberman
JANUARY 28 AND 29 MAY 6 OCTOBER 7 BEYOND CHINATOWN: THE METROPOLITAN ENVIRONMENT-BASED EDUCATION
Celebrating the creative spirit of people A Mexican fiesta Honoring Cambodian, Vietnamese, and
Craig Frampton, Bob Hoffman, WATER DISTRICT, GROWTH AND THE
with disabilities Thai cultures and Tom Johnson ENVIRONMENT IN SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
Christopher Lowe
BOLSA CHICA ECOLOGICAL PRESERVE
Pacific Islander Festival ROUND RAYS OF SEAL BEACH
Divers Weekend JUNE 10 AND 11 Scarium of the Pacific Bob Foster, Timothy Knight, David
FEBRUARY 11 AND 12 Experiencing Hawaiian, Chamorro, Tahitian, OCTOBER 28 AND 29 Francisco Ayala McKinnie, Asif Shaikh, Billie Skellie, Doug Macdougal
SCIENCE AND CREATIONISM
Exploring the technology behind the and Maori cultures Our educational Halloween event for families Gavin Smith, Kerry M. St. Pe, and FROZEN EARTH: THE ONCE AND FUTURE
people who reach below the surface STORY OF ICE AGES
David Behrens Joseph Suhayda
Baja Splash Autumn Festival POISONOUS NUDIBRANCHS LONG BEACH CARES: A FUNDRAISER FOR
African Heritage Festival SEPTEMBER 9 AND 10 NOVEMBER 4 AND 5 LONG BEACH, MISSISSIPPI Cara Mullio and Jennifer M. Volland
FEBRUARY 25 AND 26 Focusing on Japan, China, Korea, and the LONG BEACH ARCHITECTURE: THE
Celebrating Mexican, Guatemalan, and El
Highlighting the African American
Deborah Brosnan UNEXPECTED METROPOLIS
Salvadoran cultures Philippines
CORAL REEF RESTORATION Suzanne Frick, Doug Otto, Wayne
community Sponsored by Union Bank of California Ratkovich, and Mark Winogrond William Patzert
Holiday Treats for the Animals Sean Bush THE PIKE MAPPING THE PACIFIC AND WEATHER PATTERNS
Sustainable Moompetam DECEMBER 2 AND 3 VENOM ER
Seafood Day SEPTEMBER 23 AND 24 A time to show our appreciation of our Mickey Glantz Ellen Prager
MARCH 11 A coastal Native American animals David Carle, Gary Griggs, Nevin GLOBAL CLIMATE CHANGE ADVENTURE ON DOLPHIN ISLAND
Offering cooking demonstrations and celebration Smith, and Ronald Quinn
information on sustainable seafood COFFEEHOUSE AUTHOR SERIES Donald Grayson Carl Safina
THE EXTINCTION OF NORTH AMERICA’S VOYAGE OF THE TURTLE
Marine Technology Scott Cassell ICE AGE MAMMALS
and Research Day HUMBOLDT SQUID Sylvia Stevens
MARCH 25
MUSIC, DANCING, FOOD, arts and crafts, Thomas Grimm, Betsy McLane, and ALBATROSSES AND LONGLINES
Featuring the possibilities in marine Jimi Castillo, Larry Ginn, Caroly Ezra Soiferman
educational displays, and inspiring stories of ENVIRONMENTAL FILM SERIES Doug Thompson
innovations Shumway, David Wheeler, and Erin
GRAY WHALES
heritage build connections across communities Kahunawaika'ala Wright David Helvarg
Earth Day SPIRITUALITY AND THE ENVIRONMENT
APRIL 22 AND 23 50 WAYS TO SAVE THE OCEAN Charlie Yarish
Drawing the connection between our
at the Aquarium's annual festivals. SUSTAINABLE AQUACULTURE
Michael Chrisman, Joshua Reichert, Donna Hilbert
actions and the environment
and Jerry Schubel GRIEF BECOMES ME Rick Vetter
OCEAN CONSERVATION PANEL VENOMOUS SPIDERS
Dia del Niño Terry Hunt
APRIL 30
Paying homage to the importance
Bill Curtsinger EASTER ISLAND
EXTREME NATURE
of children
Richard Klein
John Delaney MODERN HUMAN ORIGINS
OCEAN EXPLORATION
12 13

8. THE AQUARIUM’S SUSTAINABLE SEAFOOD FORUM (SSF) convenes
leading restaurateurs, seafood suppliers, and scientists to work
together to identify sustainable solutions for the industry.
aquarium conferences and forums
aquarium conferences and forums
Marine Conservation and Research Institute (MCRI) Other Forums
Conferences and Forums
THE AQUARIUM OF THE PACIFIC hosts forums and conferences on marine
CONFERENCE ON OCEAN LITERACY to identify and describe strategies, programs,
topics that bring together people from a variety of disciplines to explore As part of their commitment to carry out and techniques that could take place in infor-
the recommendations identified in the mal learning centers such as the Aquarium.
ocean conservation and other environmental or social issues. President’s U.S. Ocean Action Plan, federal
ocean agencies sponsored a two-day SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
national Conference on Ocean Literacy MARINE MONITORING
(CoOL) in Washington, D.C. in June. The Aquarium of the Pacific and SCCOOS
Concurrent to the D.C. conference were (Southern California Coastal Ocean
These forums are either for national efforts or to develop a specific
five regional conferences that served to Observing System) hosted a conference
convene an additional 300 participants on marine monitoring efforts in the
Aquarium exhibit or program. In both cases, the intent is to broaden the within their regions to respond to the Southern California Bight. This conference
national recommendations and make the set the stage for ongoing collaboration
public’s awareness of the ocean, its inhabitants, and ecosystems. The recommendations applicable to regional among researchers involved in these
concerns. The Aquarium of the Pacific efforts. Participants discussed how to SUSTAINABLE SEAFOOD FORUM
Aquarium also funds and participates in research projects that explore was selected as the West Coast site and integrate data to answer questions related Established in 2004 the Aquarium’s
brought together 119 participants. to the marine environment from various Sustainable Seafood Forum (SSF) brings
marine zoology and ecology and related environmental issues. At right are stakeholder groups. The conference also together leading restaurateurs, seafood
OCEAN DESALINATION explored how to make the data available to suppliers, and scientists to work together
research studies and conservation initiatives that took place in 2006. In October the Aquarium’s Marine a broader range of users through SCCOOS. to identify sustainable solutions for the
Conservation Research Institute (MCRI) and industry. King’s Seafood Company,
the Desal Response Group cosponsored a WETLANDS AND WATERSHED OUTREACH Santa Monica Seafood, the Plitt
one-day conference on ocean desalination. The Aquarium and the Southern Wetlands Company, SMG Catering, and Shaw’s
Approximately 70 experts and activists Recovery Project (SWRP) hosted a half- Crab House in Chicago are members.
on issues related to ocean desalination day forum on wetlands and watershed The forum is guided by a scientific
attended the conference. The event looked education outreach on October 12, 2006. advisory group consisting of some of
at desalination as one solution to solving Sponsored by SWRP, the forum allowed the world’s leading experts on fisheries
California's future fresh water needs. participants from zoos, aquaria, museums, and aquaculture. SSF members have
and other educational organizations in made the commitment to empower
PUBLIC OCEAN LITERACY Southern California to inform others about their customers by providing them with
In March the Aquarium convened a forum their latest wetland/watershed-related clearly identified alternative seafood
to explore how to increase public ocean projects, recount lessons of experience, choices from documented sustainable
literacy through exhibits, mass media, and discuss what future initiatives should sources to help their customers make
informal science education, outdoor be taken to inform the millions of visitors informed decisions. SSF convened in
experiences, and online resources. The who pass through these organizations March, August, and December in 2006.
participants came together from many every year about their environment. Major support for this project has come
disciplines, organizations, and agencies from King’s Seafood and SMG Catering.
14 15

9. IN SEPTEMBER the Aquarium rehabilitated and
released a green sea turtle that was found in
Alamitos Bay in Long Beach.
research and conservation
MCRI Research Efforts Community Conservation
GREEN SEA TURTLE RELEASE REEF CHECK CALIFORNIA TRAINING experienced when they are brought to the STREET CLEANUP
In September the Aquarium of the Pacific The Aquarium’s Dive Safety Officer (DSO) surface. The barotrauma seen in these fishes In February the Aquarium hosted its third
rehabilitated and released a green sea helped conduct the first Reef Check is an injury due to the unequal pressure annual neighborhood street cleanup to
turtle (Chelonia mydas) that was found California volunteer scientific diver training between the fishes’ swim bladder and the aid the public in realizing the connection
in Alamitos Bay in Long Beach. The turtle in Monterey in May 2006. The Reef Check surrounding ambient pressure as they between trash in our city streets and
appeared to be in distress at the opening California training course provided are lifted out of the deep water. For this ocean pollution. Meeting at Burbank
of a water intake pipe. Thinking that the participants with the skills and experience reason, undersized fishes are not generally Elementary School in Long Beach, 180
animal was fatigued and in trouble, several to accurately complete the Reef Check released back into the ocean, which people picked up trash in the surrounding
people called for help. The National Marine California survey protocol. In addition contributes to the overfishing of the neighborhood, collecting over 1,300
Fisheries Services contacted the Aquarium to direct survey methods, the training population. Divers examined fishes for pounds of litter.
for assistance. The Aquarium provided program addressed safe diving practices, signs of recovery after being returned
veterinary care and housing for several techniques of research diving, sampling to the proper ocean depth. Preliminary HABITAT RESTORATION
weeks for the 28-pound turtle. The turtle design and theory, general marine ecology, research has indicated that effects of In March Aquarium staff coordinated its
was named Mickey by Jean and Charles and the importance of monitoring to barotrauma vary among species and by annual Least Tern Habitat Restoration project
Lane, who are longtime supporters of the meet marine management needs through depth of capture and that post-release at the Seal Beach National Wildlife Refuge,
Aquarium. a combination of classroom and field ses- survival may be significantly greater than where volunteers cleaned and prepared
sions. The DSO brought the training to the previously thought. the nesting site for this endangered bird.
HUNTINGTON BEACH SEDIMENT Aquarium of the Pacific, and the fall 2006 2006 was the most successful year yet,
CIRCULATION STUDY Aquarium scientific dive class became the SURVEYS OF PLATFORMS with 191 chicks fledging.
Aquarium of the Pacific scientific divers first aquarium volunteer dive team to be Previous surveys of platforms in the Santa
assisted Doug Hammond, PhD from the trained on these protocols. Now qualified Barbara Channel have shown that petroleum CALIFORNIA COASTAL CLEANUP IN FEBRUARY the Aquarium hosted
University of Southern California, and to conduct surveys in Southern California, platforms act as rearing habitat for many In September the Aquarium participated
Steven Colbert, PhD from the University these divers established Crystal Cove overfished rockfish species. However, no in the 22nd California Coastal Cleanup by its third annual neighborhood street
of Washington, with a study of seawater State Park in Orange County as a site systematic surveys have been conducted hosting a site at Alamitos Beach. This was
circulation through nearshore sediments. to be monitored with California Coast of the platforms located off of Long Beach part of a state-wide effort to clean beach- cleanup to aid the public in realizing the
Aquarium divers obtained core sediment Keeper Alliance on a biannual basis. and Huntington Beach. Aquarium of the es from San Diego to the Oregon border.
and water samples from the substrate Pacific scientific divers began to work on connection between trash in our city
from three sites of various depths off CATCH AND RELEASE SUCCESS STUDY a study by Chris Martin, a graduate student
the coast of Huntington Beach. Current Aquarium of the Pacific scientific divers at CSULB, to survey petroleum platforms
streets and ocean pollution.
measurements and photo plots of the began assisting Erica Jarvis, a graduate off Long Beach and Huntington Beach on
sand ripples and sediment composition student at California State University, a bi-monthly basis over a one-year period.
were taken. This study is attempting to Long Beach (CSULB), with her study on This will serve as a pilot study for longer
discern the importance of the composition the catch-and-release survival rates of term monitoring. Results from the study
of the seabed on the San Pedro shelf. Southern California shelf rockfishes. It has are expected to be useful in the proposed
been assumed that released rockfishes platform decommissioning strategies in
have a poor survival rate due to barotrauma Southern California.
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10. Green Leadership IN 2006 THE
IN LINE WITH FULFILLING will not compromise the functioning of the AQUARIUM RECYCLED:
its mission, the Aquarium facility or safety of the animals.
of the Pacific demon- Maintaining the temperature of each of
strates leadership as a the Aquarium’s 52 exhibits is the facility’s
"green" organization.
There are many ways that Aquarium staff
manages the facility to address impacts
largest energy demand. The Aquarium's
power needs vary at different times of day
and different times of year. Adding control
30
on our natural resources. Building on the devices such as a new VSD (Variable-Speed TONS OF CARDBOARD
initiatives and successes of prior years, Drive) and a DPS (Differential Pressure
the Aquarium’s sustainable practices and Switch) to the energy management system
corporate responsibility reflect our core help assist the facility’s central plant to
values and goals as an institution. operate more efficiently. In the past the
The Aquarium has expanded its pres-
ence as a green organization in its Pacific
Aquarium’s central plant operated like
most buildings in that its chiller pumps 940
Collections retail store and Café Scuba
restaurant. SMG Catering began using
were programmed to put out the maximum
amount of chilled water flow irrespective of
POUNDS OF ALUMINUM
biodegradable plates and utensils, made the actual cooling needs. Chilled water that
from potato and corn resins respectively. was not used was recirculated back into the
Café Scuba continues to serve sustainable chillers in the system. But adding VSDs and
seafood, and the food purchased for the
Aquarium’s animals is also from sustainable
sources. The gift store’s selection of
DPSs to the flow help reduce excess pump-
ing, thus allowing the motor revolutions to
be adjusted according to the building’s needs
1,620
merchandise has expanded to include without sacrificing the minimum pressure POUNDS OF PLASTICS
items that promote environmentally friendly required to keep the system operating.
behavior. Ranging from fashionable bags Three of the Aquarium’s general use
to Christmas ornaments made of recycled vehicles for staff are powered by natural
aquarium sustainable business practices products, these items send a message to
our guests that the Aquarium encourages
consumer responsibility.
gas. The Aquarium also has 19 waterless
urinals throughout the facility, saving about
360,000 gallons of water per year. The
3,620
The Aquarium of the Pacific constantly Aquarium purchases materials from com- POUNDS OF GLASS
looks for ways to reduce its consumption panies that offer cradle-to-cradle products,
of energy. As part of this ongoing process, such as the window shades in the Great
the Aquarium conducted an energy audit Hall. The picnic tables on the front lawn
in 2006 to see where we could make are made from recycled milk cartons.
IN 2006 SMG CATERING began using biodegradable plates and utensils, made
from potato and corn resins, in the Aquarium’s Café Scuba and other food areas.
changes to save energy. Some immediate
actions taken by the Aquarium included
The Aquarium also continues to use
low-VOC (Volatile Organic Compound) paints 1,500
adding an air curtain over a door at the
loading dock, installing additional automated
throughout the Aquarium to improve overall
air quality.
POUNDS OF
This “renewable plastic” manufactured by Cereplast uses renewable and lights with occupancy sensors, and incorpo- As we continue to expand the Aquarium WHITE LEDGER PAPER
rating a new loadshed program. Air curtains and make improvements to our facility, we
environmentally degradable resources, unlike petroleum-based products. keep heat or cold out and prevent the will search for the most environmentally
Aquarium from losing air conditioning in responsible supplies. For all future building
9,000
areas where the door is often open. Lights additions to the Aquarium, we plan to
with motion sensors were added to sever- meet LEED (Leadership in Energy and
al areas behind the scenes. The loadshed Environmental Design) standards. It is with
program ensures that when the Aquarium the principles of sustainability in mind that
is reaching its maximum energy output, it we move into the future.
POUNDS OF OTHER PAPER
can temporarily shut down or lower power
expenditures in designated places that
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11. aquarium volunteers
Our Dedicated Volunteers Featured Volunteer: Robin Riggs
AS A NON-PROFIT, the live right around the corner. They bring a To develop skills for interacting with the ROBIN RIGGS IS A MARINE decided to join the Aquarium’s team of than most staff and guests are allowed
Aquarium of the Pacific diversity of interests, backgrounds, ages, public, Aquarium VolunTEENs are assigned MAMMAL VOLUNTEER husbandry volunteers to learn about this have resulted in numerous images that
depends heavily on its cultures, and experiences. different stations throughout the Aquarium who has always preferred next step. Through her work at both places, have been used by the Aquarium for
staff of volunteers. Contributing more than In 2006 the Aquarium launched a new to enrich the guest experience. In 2006 to be behind the scenes or behind a camera Riggs developed a special opportunity to publications and press releases as well
106,000 hours in 2006, the Aquarium’s volunteer program specifically designed there were 43 VolunTEENs. lens, but her outstanding contributions to watch several sea lion pups grow up from as exhibit signs. Riggs has also assisted
volunteers are critical to its operation. for high school students between the Volunteers are an important part of the Aquarium have not gone unnoticed by day one, starting at the Care Center and with creating a volunteer handbook for
The 2006 team of volunteers was ages of 14 and 16. A collaborative effort the Aquarium family. In sadness, we fellow staff. At the end of 2006, Riggs had then making their homes at the Aquarium. working with the seals and sea lions.
comprised of 859 individuals plus several of the education, husbandry, and volunteer note the passing in 2006 of Harlan Miller, volunteered more than 4,000 hours with the Riggs developed a special bond with Riggs is an employee of The Boeing
groups, providing the equivalent of 52 services departments, this highly structured Geoffrey Woodward, Herman Appelman, Aquarium of the Pacific. Shelby, one of the Aquarium’s two harbor Company and serves on the board of
full-time employees. This unpaid staff 80-hour program is offered three times a and Kathy Keipp. They touched us and our A Southern California native, Riggs has seals. Shelby was the first marine mammal directors of the Employees Community
extended the Aquarium’s operating year. The VolunTEENs receive formal training guests with their steadfast commitment been fascinated by animals for most of that Riggs taught a behavior—that a circle Fund of Boeing California (ECF), an
budget by $1,892,148.* Volunteers play from an education specialist and ongoing to our mission. her life. Exploring the possibility of working was her shape to respond to, much like a employee owned and operated non-profit
a significant role in the work of almost enrichment from the VolunTEEN coordinator. with animals for a living, she began volun- name. Shelby’s personality had such an corporation and public charity. In this role,
every department, bringing with them a teering with the Marine Mammal Care impact on Riggs that to this day she would she brings attention to the needs of the
passion and dedication that both inspires Center when it opened in 1992. While it never turn down an opportunity to work Aquarium when we submit grants to ECF.
and ignites the energies of our paid staff. turned out not to be her career, rehabilitating with her. Riggs started with training the seals Because of Riggs’ advocacy, the Aquarium
CONTRIBUTING MORE THAN 106,000 hours in 2006, the Aquarium’s
While some volunteer staff members marine mammals became her passion. and later graduated to working with the sea received a special $10,000 grant to be
work in the Aquarium’s administrative When the Aquarium opened in 1998, lions. Over the course of a shift, she may spent for husbandry and dive programs,
volunteers come from all walks of life, every career field, and near
offices or behind the scenes, most are Riggs saw another opportunity to give work with all the animals in the exhibit. along with ongoing support for the
in the public area sharing information and back to the community and the animals In addition to her direct role with the Education Fund at the Aquarium.
insights about marine animals and habitats
and far—some drive 60 miles or more each way and others live she loves so much. She realized that once seals and sea lions, Riggs has offered her The Aquarium of the Pacific is grateful
with our guests. The Aquarium’s volunteers unreleasable seals and sea lions were skills as a photographer to document the to Riggs for her work with our animals as
come from all walks of life, every career
right around the corner. rehabilitated at the Marine Mammal Care beauty of these ambassadors. The combi- well as her advocacy for marine animals
field, and near and far—some drive 60 Center, they needed to be trained when nation of her photography skills and her and the Aquarium itself.
miles or more each way and others they moved on to their next home. She ability to get much closer to these animals
*According to figures provided by The Independent Sector in Washington D.C.
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12. fundraising efforts
THE AQUARIUM DEPENDS ON private donations and grants to realize our mission and
provide our 1.35 million guests with a world-class educational experience.
Income Sources
MEMBERSHIP of leadership donors who contribute a aquariums and tidepools, supports the
Through memberships, more than minimum of $1,000. Pacific Circle members Aquarium on Wheels, and provides more
40,000 families and individuals support receive opportunities for personal involve- than 1,000 teachers each year with a
the Aquarium of the Pacific. Membership ment in special Aquarium programs, are variety of training opportunities and
income in 2006 provided $3,452,000 in invited to exclusive events, and enjoy educational resources at the Aquarium.
operating revenue. The Aquarium has additional benefits. Donors of $10,000 to The major gifts program also manages
the fourth largest membership program $100,000 annually receive recognition by the Nautilus Society, a group of individuals
among the nation’s aquariums. Our having an exhibit at the Aquarium named who have chosen to support the Aquarium
members, more than half of which are for them for one year. The 278 Pacific Circle by leaving a lasting legacy with a bequest,
families, support the Aquarium because donors in 2006 are listed on pages 28-31. charitable gift annuity, or other planned gift.
THE AQUARIUM HAS the fourth largest membership program of its education and conservation pro- Donors who wish to make significant Members of the Nautilus Society ensure
gramming and value for repeated visits. contributions without the benefits of that the Aquarium will be educating visitors
among the nation’s aquariums. Membership income in 2006 The Aquarium provides an extensive membership are able to support either about the ocean for generations to come.
and varied program of benefits, privileges, the Aquarium’s operating budget or the
provided $3,452,000 in operating revenue. and events for our members. Aquarium Education Fund. The Aquarium SPONSORSHIPS
Education Fund supports all aspects of The Aquarium of the Pacific provides
MAJOR GIFTS the Aquarium of the Pacific’s education an opportunity for sponsors to reach the
Individuals, corporations, and foundations programs. Ensuring a valuable learning Aquarium’s diverse audience. Individuals
wishing to support the Aquarium’s mission- experience for more than 250,000 or organizations sponsor specific exhibits,
based programs with significant gifts schoolchildren and teachers annually, cultural festivals, or other events to receive
contributed more than $750,000 in 2006. the Education Fund also enables the name recognition in the Aquarium and
Several opportunities exist for such donors purchase of new teaching materials such elsewhere. More than $430,000 was raised
in the Aquarium’s major gifts program. as books and outreach supplies, covers in sponsorships in 2006.
Pacific Circle is the Aquarium’s group the maintenance of the classroom
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