Ocean Connections

Ocean Connections was established in 2018 as a registered 501(c)3, non-profit organization with the mission of providing science-based education and conservation stewardship.  Ocean Connections strives to support the exceptional animal welfare and conservation efforts of accredited zoological institutions while advancing environmental protection projects of our own. It is our goal to inspire conservation leadership through educational opportunities, social media engagement, and meaningful connections with our animal ambassadors.  We aim to protect marine mammals and the environment for future generations to come.
 

Why We Do What We Do:

Animals in the wild are facing challenges that have made accredited zoological institutions essential to their survival.  Our Saving Species initiative features local and global conservation projects geared toward:

• Raising awareness about challenges wildlife are facing including overfishing, pollution, and habitat loss
• Providing assitance with the rescue and rehabilitation of stranded marine mammals
• Organizing and participating in local beach clean ups

 
The Challenges They Face:

Many human-caused obstacles like overfishing, pollution, oil spills and more are impacting ecosystems worldwide.  As these challenges alter the natural habitats of various species, we can all make a positive impact on marine life by learning more about the problems they are facing.  Ocean Connections is dedicated to raising awareness about the struggles they are encountering including but not limited to:

• Unusual Mortality Event - This is the mass stranding of any marine animal.  Since January of 2015, over 8,400 California sea lions have standed off the coast.  Studies show that global climate change, pollution, and habitat loss are just a few of the factors contributing to these strandings.
• Plastic Pollution - Every year, 8 million metric tons of plastic end up in our oceans making it one of the biggest challenges to marine life.  Approximately 100,000 marine mammals are killed annually by plastic debris.
• Overfishing - Finding food has become increasingly more difficult for marine life as we continue to take fish out of the ocean quicker than populations can reproduce.  33% of fish populations are overfished and 50% are fully fished endangering food sources for marine life and humans alike.

 
Being Part of the Solution

Ocean Connections is commited to assisting wildlife worldwide and our goal is to inspire public participation in conservation efforts.  All of our futures are tied to the ocean and it is our hope that by sharing our animal ambassadors with others that we can foster understanding through meaningful connections.  Ocean Connections is proud to partner with accredited zoological institutions like Ocean Connections as these facilities have become safe havens for threatened and endangered species.  There are many ways you can get involved with our global and local conservation efforts including:

• Become a Sponsor - Help us, help them!  By donating or becoming a sponsor today, you can help assist with our exceptional animal welfare and conservation programs.
• Recycling - Reduce the amount of waste that ends up in landfills by recycling!
• Skip the Straw -  Single use plastics like straws are dangerous to wildlife.  Over 500 million straws are used in the U.S. every day!  Whenever possible, refuse straws or use reusable straws!
• Reusable Containers - Use glass, metal, or other reusable products whenever possible.
• Sustainable Seafood - Utilize the Seafood Watch Pocket Guide to make informed and sustainable seafood choices when you're out at the grocery store or restaurants!
• Get Involved - Participate in local beach clean-ups and/or sign up for our Fan Club to receive news and information about our community events.