News and articles

February 11, 2015

Avila Beach, Calif. — The Central Coast Aquarium recently received new life jackets from Pacific Gas and Electric Company's (PG&E) Diablo Canyon Power Plant for children who participate in the aquarium's marine science floating lab program that takes place on San Luis Obispo Bay.

 

Beginning this year, students participating in the aquarium's program are required to wear a commercial (Type I) life jacket, as prescribed by the United States Coast Guard. The donation of 40 new life jackets by Diablo Canyon has made it possible for the aquarium to proceed with this valuable educational program.

 

"At PG&E and Diablo Canyon, the safety of our customers and employees is at the heart of everything we do. We strongly believe in the importance of improving safety in our communities, and share the Central Coast Aquarium's commitment to keeping kids safe in this extremely rich learning environment. Supporting such an organization like this is a rewarding and truly enjoyable experience," said Ed Halpin, PG&E's Senior Vice President and Chief Nuclear Officer.

 

The aquarium's floating lab is the only one of its kind along the Central Coast, allowing groups of students to board a local sport fishing vessel and be taken out on a scientific and cultural exploration of San Luis Obispo Bay. During day-long expeditions, students are transformed into apprentice marine biologists. The students put out a trawl net, sort and identify fish, collect plankton samples and observe marine mammals and birds in their natural habitat. Students also view and discuss the variety of plankton caught on the boat and how they play a role in food webs and larger ecosystems. To complete their experience, the students are also educated on the local culture and natural history of the region encompassing Avila Beach and San Luis Obispo Bay.

 

"We want our kids to participate in a quality marine lesson while exploring the bay and learning about the various ecosystems and habitats. Our kids need to be wearing life jackets at all times and safety is our number one priority. This was a very kind gift from PG&E's Diablo Canyon and we are grateful for the donation," said Tara Malzone, Executive Director of the Central Coast Aquarium.

 

About Central Coast Aquarium

 

The Central Coast Aquarium is a non-profit 501(c) 3 organization that serves as a Marine Science Education Center and community resource that strives to educate and engage visitors on marine life and aquatic environments. Located in Avila Beach, the aquarium educates students from over six counties, tailoring the curriculum for K through 12th grade. The public aquarium serves as an educational tool for students and provides accessibility for visitors to get an interactive experience with local marine life. The aquarium is currently open to the public for general admission, tours, private tours, birthday parties and special events.

 

About Diablo Canyon Power Plant

 

Diablo Canyon Power Plant is a nuclear power facility owned and operated by PG&E. Its two units together produce approximately 2,300 net megawatts of carbon-free power. It provides nearly 10 percent of all electricity generated in California, and enough energy to meet the needs of more than three million Northern and Central Californians. Diablo Canyon has a $920 million annual local economic impact and is the largest private employer in San Luis Obispo County.

 

About PG&E

 

Pacific Gas and Electric Company, a subsidiary of PG&E Corporation (NYSE:PCG), is one of the largest combined natural gas and electric utilities in the United States. Based in San Francisco, with more than 20,000 employees, the company delivers some of the nation's cleanest energy to 16 million people in Northern and Central California. For more information, visit www.pge.com and www.pge.com/en/about/newsroom/index.page.