About Us
A chapter of the American Cetacean Society, the world's oldest whale conservation organization.
Mission & History
ACS Orange County is a chapter of the American Cetacean Society, the world's oldest whale conservation organization, founded in 1967. For over four decades, our chapter has been at the forefront of cetacean education and conservation in Southern California.
The OC chapter organizes monthly speaker events featuring leading marine researchers, trains whale watch naturalists who educate thousands of passengers each year, and works tirelessly to raise public awareness about the whales, dolphins, and porpoises that inhabit the waters off our coast.
Our mission is to protect cetaceans and their habitats through public education, research support, and conservation advocacy. We believe that when people understand and appreciate these magnificent animals, they become powerful advocates for ocean conservation.
What We Do
Education, training, and conservation in action.
Speaker Events
Each month, we host presentations by marine biologists, researchers, and conservation experts. These free events are open to the public and cover topics from whale migration to ocean policy. Many events are also available via Zoom for remote attendees.
View upcoming events →Naturalist Training
Our acclaimed Whale Watch Naturalist Training Program prepares volunteers to serve as onboard educators on commercial whale watching boats. Graduates share their knowledge with thousands of passengers each season, turning every trip into a conservation opportunity.
Learn about the program →Whale Watch Education
We partner with local whale watching operators in Newport Beach and Dana Point to provide educational materials, trained naturalists, and up-to-date information about the species visitors are likely to encounter on their trips.
Plan a whale watch →Species Research
We compile and publish detailed fact sheets on the cetacean species found in Southern California waters, making current research accessible to the public, students, and educators. Our educational resources are used in classrooms across the region.
Explore fact sheets →Board & Leadership
ACS Orange County is led by an all-volunteer board of directors who are passionate about marine mammal conservation. Our board members bring expertise in marine biology, education, nonprofit management, and community outreach.
Board member profiles coming soon. Interested in joining the board? Contact us.