Oregon Sea Grant operates the Visitor Center, which is the public education wing of the Hatfield Marine Science Center in Newport. Over 150,000 people pass through the doors of the Visitor Center each year to explore the exhibits and learn about marine animals, current research, and issues facing our coast. In 2018, aquarium tank stands at the Visitor Center were renovated. Contractors replaced the 21-year-old metal supports and then sculpted artificial rockwork around and under the tanks. Take a before and after video tour of the VC.
Go behind the scenes with the Oregon Sea Grant Animal Husbandry team in this video and learn about what is needed to take care of all the animals at the Hatfield Visitor Center.
One of the main marine animals featured at the Hatfield Visitor Center is the giant Pacific octopus. These animals are always a favorite for visitors to see and staff to work with. Watch this video of a feeding presentation with a former resident octopus.
