About Ocean First Institute

We are a nonprofit dedicated to ocean conservation through research, education, and community engagement.

Our Mission

To advance the conservation of sharks and all ocean life through cutting-edge research, education, and community engagement that empowers people to protect our blue planet.

Where We Work

Ocean First Institute works across Colorado and South Florida, connecting research, education, and conservation through field-based programs and partnerships. Our work is rooted in three key hubs: Colorado, the Florida Keys, and Florida Atlantic University in Boca Raton.

Colorado

In Colorado, our work focuses on fish and amphibian restoration and action on plastic pollution in rivers. We operate in the headwaters of the Colorado River and along the Front Range, partnering with agencies, schools, universities, and nonprofits to restore native species and connect students to applied conservation science.
→ Learn more about our Colorado work

Florida Keys Shark Lab

Our Florida Keys Shark Lab in Key Largo serves as a research station supporting marine science fieldwork in the Keys. This location anchors hands-on research and immersive field experiences in one of the country’s most important coastal ecosystems.
→ Explore the Florida Keys Shark Lab

Florida Atlantic University

At Florida Atlantic University in Boca Raton, Ocean First Institute extends its mission through a university-based lab setting. This location connects students, scientists, and the broader community to marine science, conservation, and ocean literacy.
→ Learn more about FAU partnerships