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The Pier Aquarium is an intimate 2,000 sq. ft. aquarium and marine education center established in 1988 as a 501(c) 3, not-for-profit organization in downtown St. Petersburg, Florida. Founding sponsors, which included the University of South Florida College of Marine Science, the National Marine Fisheries Services, Florida Sea Grant, Pinellas County Schools, Florida Progress, Inc., St. Petersburg Times and Chase Bank of Florida, saw the Aquarium as a testament to the numerous nationally recognized marine research institutions located in the city. It would be a unique resource for public education with the laboratory, Tampa Bay, right outside the building doors. The Aquarium’s uniquely trained marine eduction staff – students from local colleges and universities – translates the scientific information on the oceans, aquatic animals, conservation and up-to-date environmental issues to Tampa Bay area students, teachers, residents and visitors to make learning a more personal, entertaining experience. Our “Fresh Fish Theater,” the aquarium facilities, provides an educational, yet fun way to explore and discover what is literally in our own backyard! The Pier Aquarium is the 2006 WEDU Be More Award Winner for Innovation for The Big Fish Move book, a project of the Saturday AM Coffee Break/Book Nook by the Bay program. StaffE. Howard Rutherford, Executive Director, graduate school, University of South Aquarists Board Members
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