Protecting cetaceans and their habitats
through public education, research grants, and conservation actions
Commemorating 40 Years
On Dec. 1st, 2024, Alisa Schulman-Janiger was recognized for her 40 years of dedication as Director and Coordinator of ACS-LA’s Gray Whale Census and Behavior Project by the Mayor of Rancho Palos Verdes, John Cruikshank.
The ACS-LA Board was joined by Census citizen scientists, Whalewatch volunteers, ACS-LA Members, family and friends for this beautiful morning on the first day of Census. The Mayor gave a wonderful speech when he presented her with the plaque we made in her honor.
Dec. 1st began our 41st season and we couldn’t be more proud of Alisa’s dedication and hard work towards making this Project a success. We would also like to acknowledge our many volunteer citizen scientists whose participation and dedication make this Project possible.
Click here to see the article in The Daily Breeze.
Rancho Palos Verdes Mayor, John Cruikshank, Gray Whale Census Director, Alisa Schulman-Janiger and ACS-LA President, Patty Farrell.
Photo credit: Lory Barra
Learn About Becoming a Naturalist
Cabrillo Whalewatch
In partnership with Cabrillo Marine Aquarium, ACS-LA trains docents to educate the public about whales, dolphins, and other sea creatures. Once our docents graduate and become Naturalists, they will inspire and educate both on boats and in the classroom.
Gray Whale Census & Behavior Project
This full season shore-based gray whale census has operated on the Palos Verdes Peninsula since 1984. Trained volunteers spot and track Pacific gray whales on their annual migration, recording counts and behaviors. This project runs during daylight hours, from December 1st through late May, on the patio of the Point Vicente Interpretive Center.
Learn more about Gray Whale Census
LEARN MORE ABOUT OUR GRANTS AND AWARDS
Research Grants
Travel Awards
ACS-LA supports cetacean research through scientific research grants and travel awards that have been given out for over 20 years. We accept applications in the first quarter of each year for our grants, and every other year for our travel awards.
Education and Outreach
We have volunteers who share their cetacean knowledge and engage with adults and kids at ocean and nature-themed outings/events which take place on weekends. In this way, we inspire and educate the public about the importance of marine life and our oceans.
INQUIRE ABOUT EDUCATION AND OUTREACH
Donate!
We are an entirely volunteer-run non-profit organization. Your donation provides funds to support all of our programs and our ultimate goal of helping to protect cetaceans and their habitats.
Join our newsletter!
We send out a timely newsletter so you can keep up-to-date on ACS-LA activities. It includes news on our Research Grants and Travel Awards, Gray Whale Census, Whalewatch Program, as well as any upcoming events. So if you’d like to stay informed and be included, then join our newsletter by filling out the form on the right!
NEW SWAG!
FREE PATCH WITH NEW MEMBERSHIP!
During the past 30 years, more than two million children and thousands of adults have enjoyed whale watching trips sponsored by ACS.
ACS is an entirely volunteer-run nonprofit organization.
Our Partners and Sponsors
