Evolved from the famous and much loved Okeanos Ocean Research Foundation, the Riverhead Foundation for Marine Research and Preservation continues to develop the only authorized Marine Mammal and Sea Turtle Stranding Program in New York State.  Housed in the Atlantis Marine World Aquarium, the Foundation conducts important research and education programs, the Foundation operates whale watches and sea cruises, offering a fun and rewarding marine experience for about 18,000 people each year.

The primary mission of The Riverhead Foundation is the rescue, rehabilitation and release of sick and injured sea turtles, seals, dolphins and whales.  Concerned that vital marine habitats are being destroyed, the Foundation has adopted the following goals:

• Encourage conservation and stewardship of the marine environment through scientific findings and public education programs.
• Establish and maintain a comprehensive data archive on marine species, particularly marine mammals and sea turtles, and their habitats in local waters through active field research and the stranding program.

Whale Watch and Ocean Education Cruises
Whale Watch and Ocean Education Cruises offer the public unique opportunities to learn about marine life first hand and see whales, dolphins, sea turtles, sharks, sea birds, and ocean sunfish up close in their natural environments.  Foundation Naturalists and biologists are on board to educate passengers and answer questions.  Cruises are available throughout the summer months, from June through September.

Seal Observation Cruises
During the winter and early spring, from February through April, visitors can join Foundation naturalists for a Seal Observation Cruise in Hempstead Bay.  Biology and behavior of seals and other marine life will be discussed, and the tour will observe seal haul-out sites.

Marine Science Bay Investigations
During the spring, summer, and fall, three-hour Bay Investigations introduce students to the marine environment by collecting marine organisms and oceanographic data from local waters.  Activities include: sampling with plankton nets, bottom dredges, and Niskin bottles along with an introduction to piloting and navigation. 

For the latest information on these cruises, including current schedules, visit the Foundation's official website or call (631) 369-9840.

EDUCATION PROGRAMS
The Riverhead Foundation for Marine Research & Preservation offers a wide range of engaging programs that will enhance any student's knowledge and appreciation of the marine environment and habitats.  Programs include school visits and tours of the facility, slide and lecture presentations, and even summer camps.  Students can enjoy whale watching, seal cruises, and educational walks seasonally from Montauk and Greenport.  Call (631) 369-9840 for more information.

Some Education Program titles include:

Marine Mammals and Sea Turtles of Long Island
Uses slides, a lecture and hands-on material to teach about the many species of seals, dolphins, whales, and sea turtles of Long Island.  Identification, ecology, and the Foundation's Stranding Program are covered.

Long Island's Diverse Aquatic Ecosystems
From fresh water to salt marsh and the open ocean, students explore the biology and ecology of each ecosystem through slides and lectures.

Geology of Long Island
A fascinating examination of the glacial formation of Long Island covers the oceanographic processes that shape the shoreline. 

Field Trips
Riverhead Foundation Tours
This behind-the-scenes tour of the Ecology Learning Center is designed for students in Junior High or above.  The tour includes viewing rehabilitating seals and turtles and may not always be available.  Call for information.

Coastal Beach Ecology-Walking Tour
This guided walking tour explores aquatic habitats, including species and the biology of the ecosystem.  Groups can select a freshwater, estuarine, rocky shore, or ocean tour.  Prepare to get wet!  Available May through October.  20 person minimum.

Harbor Seal Field Observations
This is a very special guided walk to a remote beach at Montauk Point.  Students observe the local seal population and discuss pinniped biology and ecology.  Available January through April.  20 person minimum.

Whale Watching Cruises
Observe whales, dolphins, sea turtles, sharks, sea birds, ocean sunfish and other marine wildlife.  A naturalist will be on board to discuss the ecology of the area and all marine life encountered. Available May Through September. 

The Foundation's internship program offers students opportunities to gain valuable experience in working with seals, sea turtles, dolphins, whales & porpoises.  Students can participate in a variety of categories, including animal husbandry, education specialist, aquarium assistant, graphic designer, and exhibits designer, to name a few.  See the Foundation's official website for more information and how to submit a resume. 

Adopt a Fin Whale, Seal, or Sea Turtle
A class, a group or an individual can adopt one of Long Island's resident whales, seals or sea turtles that has entered the Stranding Program. Each adoption includes photographs, biography, certificate suitable for framimg and access to private adoption update line. 

Membership
Membership in the Foundation for Marine Research and Preservation brings a variety of benefits.  Call for details.

In all, the Foundation provides great opportunities for everyone to help conserve our natural resources, including our friends in the water.

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Admission:  Donations.  There are specific charges for cruises and programs.  Very reasonable.  Please call for details.

Group Reservations:  8 weeks in advance.  Individuals should also reserve cruises and programs -- at least one week, more if possible.

Lunch:  Area restuarants.  Bagged lunch can be taken aboard cruises.

Handicapped Access:  Call for information.

Directions:  LIE (I-495) east to exit for Route 24 (Riverhead).  Turn right onto Rt. 24 east (Edwards Ave.)   This becomes CR 94/Nugent Drive.  Go roughly 3.3 miles to roundabout and take 3rd exit for Peconic Avenue.  Go .2 mile and turn right onto West Main Street.  Drive east about .3 mile to Foundation, just east of Union Avenue.

Nearby
Atlantis Marine World
coming in May 2000!
Long Island Game Farm
Brookhaven National Lab