The
Birch Aquarium at Scripps – In 1903
the Marine Biological Association of San Diego was
established to conduct research in the waters along
San Diego’s coastline. In a laboratory in the
boathouse of the Hotel Del Coronado, researchers studied
their specimens and recorded their findings.
By 1905 however, it become apparent the researchers
had outgrown their laboratory. The association bought
more land and the complex grew steadily. In 1915 the
center contained 19 tanks ranging in various sizes.
The facility continued to expand and in 1925 changed
its name to Scripps Institution of Oceanography.
A $6 million gift from the Stephen and Mary
Birch Foundation in 1985 allowed plans to
go through for a major renovation. In 1992 the institute
moved to its current location on a hillside overlooking
La Jolla and was christened the Birch Aquarium at
Scripps.
Today the aquarium has over 60 tanks with the largest
being 70,000 gallons, a demonstration tide pool, a
13,000-gallon shark exhibit, a kelp bed forest with
its own wave making machine, and a 2,000-square foot
interactive exhibit.
The Birch Aquarium is not only committed
to research, but also to education. It’s not
uncommon to see a constant flow of children touring
both the aquarium and museum on school field trips.
It is a family oriented attraction and definitely
a must see when visiting San Diego.
Birch Aquarium at Scripps
2300 Expedition Way
La Jolla, CA
1-858-534-FISH
www.sio.ucsd.edu
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