Science Pub: Reviving Abalone, CA’s Heritage Seafood

At Dargan's Irish Pub & Restaurant, 18 E. Ortega Street

Dive into the rich and colorful world of abalone, one of California’s iconic heritage seafoods! From ancient Indigenous harvests to the booming fisheries of the twentieth century, abalone has long been a treasured part of the state’s cultural and ecological story. After wild populations declined and the complete closure of the fishery, a new chapter had to be written—one driven by innovation, sustainability, and science. Step inside The Cultured Abalone Farm (TCAF) in Santa Barbara, where ocean stewardship meets aquaculture, and discover how this humble mollusk is making a comeback on menus and in the ocean, one shell at a time.

Join TCAF General Manager Devin Spencer for an inside look at how aquaculture is helping bring this treasured mollusk back to life—on our plates and in the ocean. Devin’s journey from part-time tank cleaner to industry leader is as inspiring as the mission she champions: balancing biology and business to grow a more sustainable future for seafood. She holds a master’s degree in environmental science and management from the Bren School at UCSB, as well as an MBA from Santa Clara University. With a deep passion for marine education, farming, and food, Devin is dedicated to balancing the demands of biology and business to support both ocean health and coastal economies.

No tickets or reservations needed, but note that Science Pub is a popular program. Early birds get good seats, order food and drink at leisure, and enjoy a raffle to support science education and win Museum swag. Arriving close to 6:30 may land you in an overflow room or without a seat.

This event is part of the Museum’s ongoing Science Pub series of free science talks held on the second Monday of every month. For more information about Science Pub, contact Kelsey Perry at kperry@sbnature2.org.