Marine conservation efforts in Hawaii often depend on collaboration between research organizations, aquaculture facilities, and the public. One organization helping advance these efforts is the Seahorse Hawaii Foundation (SHF), a nonprofit dedicated to supporting research, conservation, and education related to seahorses and other marine species in Hawaii.
The Seahorse Hawaii Foundation, along with the Ocean Rider Kona seahorse farm, is actively contributing to efforts associated with returning endemic Hawaiian seahorses to marine protected areas in West Hawaii. These initiatives support habitat restoration and marine species conservation programs designed to strengthen Hawaii’s coastal ecosystems.
Adopt a Seahorse and Support Marine Conservation
Members of the public can directly support these conservation efforts through the foundation’s Adopt-a-Seahorse program. Through this program, individuals can adopt a pair of seahorses for $300. Or, individuals and businesses can make general donations to support the Foundation’s efforts.
Funds from this program help support conservation activities, research programs, and the ongoing work associated with protecting and restoring native seahorse populations in Hawaiian waters.
Supporting Educational Marine Exhibits
The Seahorse Hawaii Foundation also contributes to educational exhibits that allow visitors to learn more about marine life conservation in Hawaii. One such initiative is the expansion of a new Weedy Sea Dragon exhibit at the Ocean Rider seahorse farm.
This exhibit provides easy and relaxed viewing opportunities for visitors, while also helping educate the public about seahorses, sea dragons, and the fragile marine ecosystems in which they live.
Sustainable Improvements at the Ocean Rider Seahorse Farm
In addition to conservation programs and education, the Seahorse Hawaii Foundation supports sustainability initiatives at the Ocean Rider facility in Kona. One of these projects includes contributing to efforts aimed at solarizing the Ocean Rider seahorse farm, helping provide renewable energy for the farm’s electrical power needs.
Sustainability improvements such as these help reduce environmental impact while supporting long-term marine conservation efforts in Hawaii.
Recovery After the March 2026 Kona Low Storm
In March 2026, a powerful Kona Low storm damaged parts of the Ocean Rider facility, destroying the shade cloth canopy that previously protected the tank field.
The Seahorse Hawaii Foundation has contributed toward building a new roof structure for the tank field, helping restore protection for the aquaculture systems that support the farm’s marine species and conservation programs.
Improving Visitor Access to the Facility
A recent accomplishment at the Ocean Rider facility includes the installation of a new sidewalk throughout the seahorse farm, making it easier for visitors to walk through the facility and learn about the conservation and aquaculture work being done there.
Improved accessibility helps visitors enjoy a more comfortable and educational experience while exploring the seahorse farm.
Supporting Marine Education and Conservation in Hawaii
Through conservation initiatives, educational exhibits, and facility improvements, the Seahorse Hawaii Foundation continues to play an important role in supporting marine life research and environmental stewardship in Hawaii.
Visitors interested in learning more about seahorses and marine conservation can explore the Ocean Rider facility in Kona or support these efforts through the Seahorse Hawaii Foundation’s adoption and donation programs.
Make an Online Donation for Adopt a Seahorse
Mahalo, Carol Cozzi-Schmarr,
President Seahorse Hawaii Foundation
The Seahorse Hawaii Foundation is a 501(c) 3 organization with Federal I.D. number is 20 5592772.
Visit us at seahorse.com and watch the award-wining documentary ‘A Different Kind of Farm’
