“The IRL is such an amazing place. But the more we learn the more we realize there are so many questions that need to be researched in order to understand the entire ecosystem. I want to help with the research and be a small part of helping to enhance, enrich and solve the myriad of issues that face the IRL. I really enjoy the hands on experience that volunteering with ORCA allows me. There is no better way to learn, understand and experience then being waist deep in the lagoon! And then going back to the lab to help test.”

"Becoming an active citizen scientist is a great opportunity to be part and give to the community by helping with some time to collect water, muck, fish samples or, with the processing of the same at the laboratory so the scientists keep advancing and completing the research already in progress. The data that is being obtained will guide us to the best way to preserve this beautiful Lagoon. This has also been an incredible learning experience of so many aspects of what is involved in this research. As a participant and volunteer, it is extremely gratifying to be of help with this project. We learn of the progress in the research on a regular basis which keeps us quite involved with it. ORCA scientists always make all active citizen scientists feel welcome and appreciated. You are part of the team."

"I am passionate about all efforts to protect and save our marine resources. Being a citizen scientist allows me the chance to both learn about the Indian River Lagoon and to participate in efforts to protect this valuable resource. So, being on and in the water, with kids, and working together is quite an opportunity."

“I really enjoy the hands-on experience that ORCA has to offer. Not many organizations allow community volunteer opportunities in both field or laboratory work. Most of my time at ORCA has been in the Center for Citizen Science where I have learned how to perform fish dissections, tissue & liver extractions, nutrient analysis, data entry, and now analyzing micro-plastics. I look forward to working out in the field and learning more laboratory techniques soon.”

ORCA offers a variety of volunteer opportunities to help slow the degradation of the Indian River Lagoon. I primarily assist with fish monitoring, preparing fish samples for toxin analysis. When not working on extractions, I spend time under the microscope identifying microplastics in the stomachs and fillets of fish samples. Additionally, I help analyze water samples from different parts of the lagoon for pollutants such as caffeine. These are just a few of the many impactful projects within ORCA’s Citizen Science Program. The ORCA staff are incredibly knowledgeable and dedicated, providing volunteers with the education and tools to be part of the solution in preserving and restoring the lagoon. Coming to ORCA each week is truly one of the highlights of my life, and I am grateful to contribute to this important mission.