Exciting news for ocean lovers and sustainable food advocates: the Hubbs-SeaWorld Research Institute in Carlsbad is growing—thanks to a major land donation from NRG Energy.
NRG has donated 6.6 acres along the northern shore of the Agua Hedionda Lagoon, paving the way for the nonprofit hatchery to double its operational space. The expansion marks a big step forward for sustainable seafood production, marine conservation, and local job creation in San Diego County.
The Hubbs-SeaWorld hatchery has been working to restore wild fish populations—especially California’s white seabass—since 1995. Operating on just two acres leased from NRG until now, the hatchery has already produced over 350,000 white seabass annually. With the new land, the institute plans to scale up its operations, expand into new areas like edible seaweed and shellfish cultivation, and integrate sustainable aquaculture systems that reduce waste and clean ocean water naturally.
At the heart of their work is the commitment to strengthening domestic seafood production. Currently, the U.S. imports over 80% of the seafood it consumes, and more than half of that is farmed overseas. By growing more seafood locally—and doing it sustainably—Hubbs-SeaWorld aims to reduce reliance on imports, protect wild fish populations, and promote healthier oceans.
Each fish raised at the hatchery is carefully tracked with a tiny laser-engraved wire tag implanted in its cheek, helping researchers monitor survival rates and growth after release. Success stories include a white seabass that lived for over 20 years and grew to 53 pounds, highlighting the long-term impact of the hatchery’s conservation efforts.
The donated land will also support innovative research initiatives, including the cultivation of sea lettuce and sea cucumbers—species that naturally filter waste and promote cleaner aquaculture environments. These integrated systems not only improve sustainability but also open up new opportunities for healthy, affordable food production.
Local leaders are championing the expansion. Congressman Mike Levin and Carlsbad Mayor Keith Blackburn both celebrated the donation during a recent tour of the facility, emphasizing the importance of sustainable marine innovation for food security, environmental health, and economic resilience.
The new facility, envisioned as a state-of-the-art marine aquaculture lab, will help the Hubbs-SeaWorld Research Institute advance its mission: to restore marine life populations, develop ocean-friendly food systems, and create long-term employment opportunities in a growing sustainable seafood sector.
Founded in 1963, the Hubbs-SeaWorld Research Institute has long been a leader in marine conservation, with research locations in San Diego, Carlsbad, and Florida. This expansion cements Carlsbad’s role as a national hub for forward-thinking aquaculture and marine science.
As the oceans face mounting pressures from overfishing and climate change, projects like this one offer hope—showing that innovation, stewardship, and community collaboration can build a healthier, more sustainable future.
