New England Aquarium Staff Begin Daily Operations

The Boston institution readies its exhibits for thousands of daily visitors.

Updated on Oct. 29, 2026 in Aquariums

Bold vector editorial illustration showing a stainless steel water filtration manifold, representing the operational maintenance of the Boston aquarium. — New England Aquarium staff conduct daily maintenance, including water quality checks and exhibit preparation, to ensure the safety of thousands of marine animals. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Each morning, New England Aquarium staff members perform essential tasks, including food preparation and water quality testing, to ready the facility for its daily visitors. The aquarium requires constant maintenance to support its diverse collection of thousands of animals.

Why it matters

The operational rigors at the aquarium ensure that its massive exhibits, including a tank containing 200,000 gallons of water, remain safe for the animals and guests alike. Diligent daily upkeep is required to maintain the environment for the 1.2 million people who visit annually.

The New England Aquarium operates with an annual budget of $58 million and employs 263 staff members. The facility currently maintains a membership base of 14,000 and cares for approximately 10,000 animals, including 750 residing within the Giant Ocean Tank.

The players

Jordan Baker

An aquarist at the facility who has contributed seven years of service to the organization.

Jenn Chamberlain

A manager at the aquarium responsible for overseeing water quality and animal care protocols.

Patrick Beckles

A long-term staff member who has worked at the New England Aquarium for 36 years.

Mike Penzo

A staff member who has been employed at the aquarium for eight years.

The details

Staff members begin their morning routines by defrosting food and checking temperature levels in various habitats throughout the facility. Managers also perform ongoing water quality analysis, utilizing filtered water sourced directly from Boston Harbor to sustain the health of the marine life.

7 a.m.: Aquarist Jordan Baker begins feeding preparations.
7:30 a.m.: Manager Jenn Chamberlain begins water quality testing.
8 a.m.: Jordan Baker checks invertebrate tank temperatures.
8:20 a.m.: Jenn Chamberlain greets stingrays in the main tank.
8:45 a.m.: Jenn Chamberlain analyzes water samples in the lab.

Culture Shift

The New England Aquarium serves as a central hub for urban marine education and public engagement within the Boston region. This operational routine underscores the broader trend of major public aquariums balancing massive visitor traffic with complex animal husbandry and water management.

Visitors to the New England Aquarium can expect a standard, well-maintained experience due to these rigorous morning preparation protocols. The aquarium's high attendance figures, peaking at 6,000 daily in the summer, necessitate these early shifts to ensure a seamless experience for the public.

The takeaway

Maintaining a large-scale public aquarium is a significant logistical effort that relies on strict daily routines for animal welfare. Residents and visitors can gain a better appreciation for these exhibits by understanding the complex preparation required before the doors open.