Vermilion Sea Institute

The Vermilion Sea Institute (VSI) is a Washington state non-profit organization committed to fostering sustainable relationships between human societies and the ecosystems they rely on. Nestled in Bahía de los Ángeles, Baja California, Mexico, our field station stands as a beacon for environmental education, scientific research, and community engagement. While our roots are firmly planted in Mexico, our mission resonates globally, influencing conservation efforts worldwide.

In addition to our global impact, Washington state holds a special place in the heart of VSI. With our board chair residing there and a significant portion of our supporters hailing from the Evergreen State, Washington is integral to our organizational identity. The support we receive from this community fuels our commitment to environmental stewardship in Baja California and beyond, reminding us of the interconnectedness of our endeavors.

At VSI, our work transcends geographical boundaries to confront pressing environmental challenges. Through initiatives like our Aventureros program, we empower local youth to become stewards of their natural environment, fostering responsibility and connection to their surroundings. Investing in Aventureros is vital as it cultivates the next generation of conservation leaders, equipping them with the values and skills needed to tackle today's complex environmental issues and those of tomorrow. In 2023:

• Aventureros engaged in 139 days of programming. 
• The program reached youth with an average age of 13, ranging from 7 to 18 years old.
• 90 children participated in at least one activity, with 30 attending ten or more.
• 11 youth obtained Wilderness First Aid certification. 
• 6 youth studied SCUBA. 
• 112 international visitors joined beach cleanup efforts led by Aventureros. 

Moreover, our research on microplastics, marine debris, and endangered species like the whale shark underscores the urgent need to protect fragile ecosystems. Since 2012, we've meticulously collected data on 948 whale shark encounters, significantly advancing global conservation efforts. This dataset is invaluable for safeguarding this endangered species, providing essential insights into their habitat usage, migration patterns, and life history. In 2023 alone, we added information on 106 whale shark encounters to the global database, Sharkbook.

Celebrating its 50th anniversary this year, our field station warmly welcomes participants of all ages and backgrounds. In 2023, visitors from five different countries, aged 2 to 82, underscored our commitment to inclusivity and diverse engagement.

Ultimately, supporting VSI's efforts means joining a global movement towards environmental stewardship and conservation. It ensures a more sustainable future for all while nurturing today's youth to become the conservation leaders our world urgently needs. By investing in programs like Aventureros, community science, and our field station, we equip not only local youth but all our visitors with the tools and knowledge to champion environmental causes, leaving a lasting impact on the health and vitality of our planet.