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# Microscopic grant keeps aquarium afloat
- URL: https://www.smdp.com/microscopic-grant-keeps-aquarium-afloat/
- Published: 2005-09-30T15:00:00.000Z
- Updated: 2026-10-23T07:50:15.000Z
- Author: Guest Author
- Tags: Education, Pier, #archive-import

*By Daily Press staff*

A $100,000 grant from the S. Mark Taper Foundation has enabled the Santa Monica-based environmental organization Heal the Bay to recently open an interactive and educational microscope lab at the non-profit’s Santa Monica Pier Aquarium.

“During a time when school funding is being cut back, the S. Mark Taper Foundation grant has provided Heal the Bay with an amazing opportunity to offer vital scientific education to school groups and the general public,” said Heal the Bay Executive Director Mark Gold. “Thanks to the foundation’s generosity, the aquarium now has an entire area full of high-tech microscopes, computers and flat panel viewing screens to educate and inspire all Southern Californians.”

The new S. Mark Taper Foundation Science Lab will serve to teach students and other aquarium visitors about the cornerstone of the ocean environment — microscopic organisms. With the foundation’s donation, as well as time and materials donated by HO+K Interiors and others, the lab will accommodate up to 15 students during education field trips.

Heal the Bay has equipped the lab to provide an accessible learning environment intended for students in fifth grade through college. Students will collect and study microorganisms from the Santa Monica Bay, practice scientific methodology and discuss issues such as urban runoff and pollution prevention.

The lab also will be available to educate the public during visiting hours. Aquarium staff will use the microscopes to show visitors aspects of marine life not visible with the naked eye. A large television screen will be used for slideshows and to show documentary films on environmental issues and other marine themed topics.

The Santa Monica Pier Aquarium, located beach level at the Santa Monica Pier, is open to the public Tuesday through Friday from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m., and weekends from 12:30 p.m. to 6 p.m. Reservations are required for school groups interested in attending an education program. Call (310) 393-6149, ext. 105, for more details. New neighborhood group takes new direction

*Originally published in the Santa Monica Daily Press print edition on September 30, 2005.* [Read the original PDF.](https://s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com/smdp%5Fbackissues/093005.pdf?ref=smdp.com)