Ocean First Institute is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to advancing ocean conservation through research and education. Ocean First Institute offers hands-on marine science education, microplastics research, and local conservation projects in Colorado.

Funded by the Scientific and Cultural Facilities District (SCFD), the microplastics program engages students across seven Colorado counties in monitoring watersheds for microplastics, linking local data to global plastic pollution issues. In collaboration with the St. Vrain Innovation Center and partners Colorado Parks and Wildlife and Boulder County Parks and Open Space, students contribute to Northern Leopard Frog conservation by raising native tadpoles, enhancing biodiversity and ecosystem understanding. Ocean First Institute maintains a research station focused on sharks and goliath grouper in Key Largo.

Ocean First Insitute's Field Course allows undergraduate and senior high school students to gain valuable experience alongside marine biologists and graduate students. Through these initiatives, Ocean First Institute inspires the next generation of environmental stewards. If you’d like to learn more about Ocean First Institute and how you can support our mission, please explore further HERE.

Dr. Mikki McComb-Kobza, Ocean First Institute’s CEO & Chief Scientist, demonstrates a shark jaw to a group of enthusiastic students as part of our free educational program on sharks

Dr. Mikki McComb-Kobza, engages with a group of students along the South Platte River, discussing water quality and the impact of microplastics as part of Ocean First Institute’s SCFD-supported Microplastics Citizen Science Project.

Dr. Mikki McComb-Kobza engages with students as they observe marine organisms, fostering hands-on learning and exploration of aquatic life.

 Dr. Mikki McComb-Kobza with a student from the St Vrain Innovation Center released Northern Red Belly Dace in their natural habitat in Colorado as part of the collaborative conservation project