Newport, OR — The Oregon Coast Aquarium (OCAq) has received a significant donation from Wildlife Warriors, a non-profit charity founded by Steve and Terri Irwin. This contribution is further amplified by a matching grant from the Marcia H. Randall Foundation, which will match all gifts and pledges to OCAq’s wildlife rehabilitation fund up to $500,000 through December 31, 2024.
Terri Irwin, founder of Wildlife Warriors, expressed her enthusiasm for supporting the Oregon Coast Aquarium’s efforts. “We’re thrilled to help support the Oregon Coast Aquarium with their latest project, through our charity Wildlife Warriors. Together, we’re taking one step closer to better protecting the beautiful marine wildlife in Oregon, honoring our overall goal to save one, save the species.”
Wildlife Warriors was established in 2002 by Steve and Terri Irwin to involve the public in protecting injured, threatened, or endangered wildlife. The charity’s donation will support the construction of OCAq’s Marine Wildlife Rehabilitation Center. This new center will expand the aquarium’s capacity for triage, long-term veterinary attention, and rehabilitation of endangered marine animals such as sea turtles, northern fur seals, and snowy plovers. Construction is set to begin in 2025.
OCAq is the only facility in Oregon authorized to provide critical care to these endangered marine animals. The Irwin family has strong ties to Oregon, with Terri hailing from Eugene. The family regularly visits the area, including the Oregon Coast Aquarium. In 2019, they partnered with OCAq to film a feature for “Crikey! It’s the Irwins,” highlighting the specialized veterinary care at the aquarium.
“We are grateful to Wildlife Warriors and the Irwin family for their support,” said OCAq President and CEO Carrie Lewis. “This is an incredible gift that will make a direct impact on Oregon’s wildlife.”
About Oregon Coast Aquarium
Since its opening in 1992, the Oregon Coast Aquarium has been a premier attraction on Oregon’s central coast and an enduring advocate for ocean health. This 501(c)(3) non-profit organization has supported marine wildlife and fostered environmental stewardship through its education programs, community partnerships, and rehabilitation efforts. Accredited by the Association of Zoos & Aquariums, the Oregon Coast Aquarium is consistently ranked among the top 10 aquariums in the U.S., providing visitors with opportunities to connect with 15,000 animals spanning 300 different species. The Oregon Coast Aquarium is located at 2820 S.E. Ferry Slip Rd., Newport, OR. For more information, visit aquarium.org or call 541-867-3474.