CLEARWATER, Fla. – In an ambitious move towards the future, the Clearwater Marine Aquarium has announced a comprehensive multi-year expansion plan.
Leaders said the comprehensive forward-looking campaign encompasses strategies to welcome new wildlife, create habitats, and launch global conservation efforts.
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“Clearwater Marine Aquarium isn’t just any aquarium – it’s a beacon of hope, a testament to the power of compassion, conservation, and education,” said Joe Handy, CEO. “As we commence on this transformative expansion journey, our focus remains steadfast for the animals and for the future. This expansion embodies our unwavering commitment to providing the best possible environment for our marine residents, while also ensuring that future generations can continue to benefit from the wonders of marine conservation.”
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The multi-layered expansion plans will be rolled out over time with the newest addition, the Manatee Rehabilitation Center, set to be unveiled to guests this spring.
The new manatee center will serve as a hub for excellence in manatee research and rescue operations, CMA said online. The new center will boost the aquarium’s capacity to provide critical care to an influx of manatees in need.
Over the summer, the aquarium will break ground internationally on the Belize Marine Rescue and Educational Center, a Clearwater Marine Aquarium Facility. With two decades of experience in rescuing and releasing manatees in Belize, CMA Research Institute (CMARI) will further its mission in a region boasting the highest known density of Antillean manatees worldwide.
Recognized as first responders, CMA will enhance its capacity to aid marine animals in distress in Pinellas County and around the state.
With a fully operational onsite animal hospital, CMA is poised to deliver immediate and essential care to animals facing life-threatening situations. A significant renovation and expansion of the animal hospital will provide guests with the opportunity to witness life-saving care in real time, the aquarium said.
Renderings show what the hospital will look like, which includes large windows giving guests a peek inside the vast hospital rooms.
Additionally, the revamped facility will serve as a nexus for partnerships with universities and external experts, facilitating collaborative research endeavors and fostering innovative marine care solutions.
CMA’s expansion will also introduce a diverse array of new marine ambassadors, including manatees, California sea lions, sharks, penguins, albino alligators, and additional dolphins.
Each of these captivating creatures brings its own unique conservation narrative, enriching the visitor experience and serving as educational tools for future generations. The new shark ambassadors will be housed in an all-new 350-450,000 gallon saltwater habitat, with floor to ceiling views, leaders explained online.
In addition to new habitats, CMA will introduce exciting attractions within the aquarium to engage guests of all ages.
Some new additions include a jellyfish display, state-of-the-art theater, interactive water area and an animal encounter village.
“The exciting new plans to expand Clearwater Marine Aquarium and bring in new animals and new exhibits is going to reinvigorate our citizens to come and take a good look at the new aquarium. This place is such an asset for our residents and visitors on Clearwater Beach. It’s an exciting time ahead for all,” said Brian Aungst, Sr., Mayor of the City of Clearwater.
Back in 2020, CMA opened the 1.5 million gallon Ruth and J. O. Stone Dolphin Complex. The habitat is home to a number of rescue dolphins today, and was once the home to the aquarium’s famous dolphin, Winter.
For more information on the expansion plans, visit https://www.cmaquarium.org/.
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