Georgia Aquarium is Five Years Old today!

Today marks the 5th anniversary of the opening of Georgia Aquarium.  I’ve been along for most of the ride since consulting before the aquarium opened, and it’s been an amazing experience.  Starting in the crazy busy opening days, through some tough times in 2007, to the current scene, which is great, its been a spectacularly interesting, challenging and ultimately satisfying endeavour to be a part of.  We’ve been able to share the wonders of the ocean with over 10 million guests so far, and during that time we’ve generated new science about some of our flagship species such as whale sharks, manta rays, beluga whales, dolphins and penguins.  I’ve met and worked with some tremendously passionate and talented people and been introduced to new ways of thinking about biology, animal collections, management and what you might call “non-traditional” science.  I wouldn’t trade my time here for anything!

So HAPPY BIRTHDAY Georgia Aquarium! I am excited about what the future holds for us all. And to those of you who haven’t been yet, I invite you to come to downtown Atlanta and share in a collection the likes of which you won’t see anywhere else.  Dive in, the water’s fine!