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Vero Beach, FL

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Ocean Research & Conservation Association (ORCA)
1235 16th St.
Vero Beach, FL 32960

(772) 562-9052
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In 2005, marine biologist and deep sea explorer Dr. Edie Widder founded ORCA (Ocean Research & Conservation Association) as the nation’s first technology-based marine conservation organization. ORCA’s niche in responding to large-scale deterioration of the marine environment is to:

•   Collect accurate and scientifically defensible data on water quality and its impact on the marine ecosystems.

•   Provide the data to the public and decision makers in an easily understandable format.

•   Engage communities in marine conservation action.

ORCA’s programs include . . .

ORCA Kilroy Network is a real-time monitoring system that provides continuous data on water quality in the Indian River Lagoon .

Ecotoxicity program: mapping pollution and where it accumulates in the Indian River Lagoon.

One Health: studying the transfer of toxins and toxicants from local waterways to humans and animals.

Citizen Science and Education: directly involving students and community members in ORCA's work.

Deep sea research: unobtrusive observation. Dr. Edie Widder has worked with engineers to develop stealth camera systems that can see without being seen.

Advocacy: educating individuals, communities, business and governments regarding actions, based on our science, needed to restore our waters.

Vero Beach is home to ORCA’s headquarters the DJ Rainone Research & Science Center, as well as ORCA's volunteer facility, the Center for Citizen Science that educates and engages community members in solving the problems that lead to degradation of the Indian River Lagoon.

ORCA educators and scientists train citizen volunteers to participate in different components of research programs and initiatives.
This approach allows ORCA to involve residents of all ages in measuring and monitoring local environmental conditions, identifying pollution in and around the lagoon, and arming and activating their own community to address these problems and develop solutions.

If you would like to get involved as a citizen scientist, register for one of the presentations or workshops at ORCA’s Center for Citizen Science in Vero Beach.

Ocean Research & Conservation Association (ORCA) is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization focused on preserving the Indian River Lagoon through science, restoration, advocacy and education.

ORCA headquarters, DJ Rainone Research & Science Center: 1235 16th Street, Vero Beach,32960

ORCA's Center for Citizen Science: 2515 Airport N Drive, Bldg B, Vero Beach, 32960

Ocean Research & Conservation Association (ORCA)

Visit Website

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Ocean Research & Conservation Association (ORCA)
1235 16th St.
Vero Beach, FL 32960
(772) 562-9052