Display of Marine Life for Educational Purposes at Central Coast Aquarium in Avila Beach, California

The California Department of Fish and Wildlife, Region 7, has issued a Section 2081(a) permit to the Central Coast Aquarium in Avila Beach, California, for the purpose of collecting marine life for educational displays. This permit authorizes the capture of coho salmon, Chinook salmon, and steelhead trout during sampling activities intended for the aquarium's permanent collections. The project is authorized to conduct year-round sampling of nearshore marine species through December 31, 2029, utilizing various methods including hook and line, bottom trawls, fish traps, and baited remote underwater videos. The project has been granted a Notice of Exemption under California Code Regulations Section 15306, as the information collection is determined not to cause serious disturbance to listed species. Administrative oversight for the permit is managed by Environmental Scientist Dylan Inskeep and Project Applicant Tatum Schneider. The activity falls under NAICS code 114111 and is specifically designed to support the educational mission of the Central Coast Aquarium through the legal acquisition of specified salmonid species.