Our mission
The H.E.R.O. Mission
HERO was established to support and promote global research, education, and the protection of our life-sustaining planet. From river to reef and classroom to courtroom, we strive to be a HERO for the environment.
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“After almost 100 years on the planet, I now understand the most important place on Earth is not on land, but at sea.”
Sir David Attenborough
Our work
Connected places.
A shared responsibility.
Forests, rivers and oceans sustain life together. HERO brings research, education and environmental advocacy to the places we know and care for.
Climate & River to Reef
Understanding how changes on land, in rivers and in our climate affect life in the ocean.
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Marine Justice
Advocating for cleaner water and responsible public access along San Francisco Bay.
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HERO News
The five newest articles on research, conservation and environmental action.
Panama’s October Earthquakes: Following the Aftershocks
Strong shocks near Santa Catalina, more earthquakes in the same area, and activity toward Almirante and the Costa Rica border. Ted Hannig examines the records and HERO’s water-temperature research near Volcán Barú.
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Protecting the Wild Dolphins of Dolphin Bay
Research shows how boat traffic affects Bocas del Toro’s resident dolphins. A look at the pressures they face and Ted Hannig’s proposal for quieter observation and better protection.
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Protecting HERO’s Mainland Rainforest Preserve
Nearly 100 acres of mainland rainforest, a separate island field station, and the conservation and research work that connects forest and coast.
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The Ocean Cleanup: Taking Plastic Out of Rivers and the Sea
A look at The Ocean Cleanup’s river interceptors, ocean cleanup technology and 2026 plans, including Panama City — with a video of its Guatemala projects.
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HERO community
Working alongside others.
Organizations HERO supports and collaborates with.
Having trouble opening the Baykeeper website?
If Baykeeper shows a blocked page or a 404 error while you are outside the United States, a U.S. connection may help, such as a VPN set to a U.S. server. If access is still blocked, call Baykeeper at +1 510-735-9700 and share the error message and Cloudflare Ray ID, if shown.