SUSTAINABLE SEAFOOD

Monterey County is the epicenter of the sustainable seafood movement. The Monterey Bay Aquarium's peer-reviewed Seafood Watch program was a pioneering effort in linking dining behavior to ocean health. Local restaurants like Passionfish, The Fish Hopper and Old Fisherman's Grotto have committed to educating their staff about ecologically conscious seafood choices. They've removed all seafood choices labeled "Avoid" by Seafood Watch from their menu, and are distributing the Seafood Watch pocket guide to diners so they can continue to make conscious choices at other restaurants.

You can make great sustainable seafood dishes right in your own kitchen! Check the Monterey Bay Aquarium's Seafood Watch website for a list of sustainable choices in your area. You can also download the Seafood Watch iPhone app, which received the "Best Smart Phone App" award from Treehugger. Then look up a great sustainable seafood recipe from one of America's top chefs - click here to view the Seafood Watch recipe archives.