Giant red sea cucumbers Apostichopus californicus are a known valuable export for the west coast of North America. Aquaculture is still in the pilot stage where growout trials have shown mixed results as research has focused on utilizing existing structures and food sources (figure 1). Water quality, containment systems, fouling and location have been key issues. Wild stock use of other aquaculture systems has been explored and is understood as benefit to the general population. Use includes larval settlement into gear leading to juvenile and adult use of structure and food sources. Nursery phase aquaculture has advanced greatly as food, environment, handling and water quality issues have been addressed. This expertise is being applied in other regions to distribute knowledge to direct stakeholders.