IRCF Recognizes ORCA on World Oceans Day
June 8th is World Oceans Day, an international day dedicated to supporting worldwide public interest in the protection of the ocean and the sustainable management of its resources. One prominent local organization working to achieve these goals is the Ocean Research & Conservation Association (ORCA), whose mission is to protect and restore aquatic ecosystems and the species they sustain through the development of innovative technologies, science-based conservation action, and community education and outreach. Since 2005, ORCA has worked to protect and restore our local ecosystems through citizen science and education programs, deep sea research, and restorative efforts that work to protect our local marine ecosystems.
ORCA has come to envision a fundamentally new approach to ocean conservation—one focused on improving the quality of water—the precious habitat fish, marine mammals and other wildlife require for survival. As the nation’s first technology-based marine conservation organization, ORCA’s unique 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 marine ecosystems.
- Provide the data to the public and decision makers in an easily accessible and understandable format.
- Engage communities in marine conservation action, with positive reinforcement for their efforts through feedback involving easily understandable scientific data.
By combining innovative technology, applied science, and community outreach, ORCA is leading the way in protection and conservation of our valuable coast, estuaries and oceans — saving these precious habitats for the generations of tomorrow.
This World Oceans Day, we encourage everyone to give back to the organizations like ORCA who are continually working to support the preservation of our diverse local marine ecosystems. Click here to learn how you can help.
Donations can also be made through your donor-advised fund by logging into My Fund or by contacting a member of our team at donorservices@ircommunityfoundation.org or 772.492.1407.