HUGHES LAB TABLING EVENT:
Once numbering in the tens of thousands, sea otters were nearly wiped out by the fur trade of the 18th and 19th centuries. Today, their population remains confined to Central California, leaving northern California’s coast without this keystone species. Sea otters play a vital role in coastal biodiversity—by preying on sea urchins and other grazers, they help kelp forests and seagrass meadows thrive, supporting a rich web of marine life.

The event will feature interactive booths from local science organizations, businesses, and community groups including Sea Otter Savvy, The Marine Mammal Center, Marine Conservation Institute, Defenders of Wildlife, local fishermen and more. Visitors will learn about the history of sea otters in northern California and their connection to resilient coastal ecosystems.