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Ocean First Institute is working with OCEARCH to further understand the abundance and movements of the great white sharks in the Northern Atlantic. This past week OCEARCH caught and tagged the largest female to date. Named Nukumi in the Mi’kMaq native language which translates to “Grandmother”.  She likely is a grandmother who has birthed perhaps as many as 100 sharks in her lifetime, who are now likely capable of reproducing. Being in the presence of an animal this large and this old, changes you. Forever. See the clip from OCEARCH detailing this incredible experience.

The release was part of a project partnership formed by the St. Vrain Valley School District, Colorado Parks and Wildlife, Boulder County Parks and Open Space and the Ocean First Institute. Mac Kobza, a wildlife biologist with Boulder County Parks & Open Space, said the northern redbelly dace species has seen a decline in its population, due to habitat loss as human development has reshaped Colorado waterways. The fish, which prefer shallow, spring-fed ponds, are a state-endangered species and are among those listed as a Tier 1 Species of Greatest Conservation Need by Colorado Parks and Wildlife. The northern redbelly dace is found in Colorado in the West Plum Creek drainage, which is south of Chatfield Reservoir, according to Colorado Parks and Wildlife.

Ocean First Institute is dedicated to fostering a healthier planet and a brighter future for a new generation. As such, we cannot remain silent when Black lives are at risk, daily, due to systematic injustice, racism, and police brutality. A healthier planet is one where racial equity is prioritized, and where systematic racism is dismantled. We believe that there is no place in our world for racism, division and hate.