Pigeon Key Foundation

Project: Replace the trex decking of the walking platform and the stainless steel mesh of the gate at the saltwater outdoor aquarium and research pool (shark pool) that was demolished by Hurricane Irma. 

Background: The pool was originally constructed in the 40's for the folks who lived on the island while working for the toll authority. It was quickly transformed into an outdoor aquarium filled with fish. During World War II the Navy and Coast Guard used the pool as a boat basin after blasting out the corner as well as the seafloor near the access point to gain entry.

It sat unused for years until the Foundation designed an aluminum structure to make the repair completing the top of the pool.  A stainless screen was installed on the outside to allow for sea water to flow in and out with the tides. A trex decking was installed on the top to create the walking platform. This enclosed the pool and allowed the Foundation to once again stock the pool with animals. They teamed up with the Florida Keys Community College and are in the preliminary stages of shark research on Bonnethead sharks.

The research would prevent shark by catch on long line fishing boats targeting sail and swordfish. It was also stocked with tarpon, bonefish, snapper, grouper, and other shark species. The students get to feed the sharks and others species during shark anatomy and bilogy lab. They learn of many things about sharks. They dissect a shark (1 shark used multiple times to prevent unnecessarily taking more sharks from the wild) and get a chance to see the sharks feeding in the pool. The Foundation’s most popular program on island is the shark program because of the shark pool.


Your donation will directly help fund the reconstruction of the shark tank gate and walking platform. Our goal is to raise the funds to complete the work in time for the kids Summer camp starting in June.

On behalf of the Florida Engineering Leadership Institute Class of 2018, thank you.

The Pigeon Key Foundation and Marine Science Center is nestled on a five-acre island in Marathon, Florida. We focus on protecting the cultural history of the Florida Keys and educating students of all ages about the surrounding marine ecosystems. Unfortunately, our facility was in the direct path of Hurricane Irma and saw significant damage.  We sustained major damage to our buildings and have lost numerous trees. However, we were extremely fortunate that our "core" buildings made it through the storm with little to no damage. By generously donating to our cause, you’ll be directly aiding to the restoration our island needs in order to continue with our mission. Our staff is back on the ground starting to slowly remove debris and repair the buildings and infrastructure that were damaged. Any donation will help and we truly are grateful to all who have reached out to check in on our staff and facility during this tough time.

For over 20 years, The Pigeon Key Foundation and Marine Science Center has provided customized programs to more than 30,000 participants from more than 1,000 schools throughout the United States. We would love to get back to doing just that and your support would help us in that process. Thank you and we appreciate your support.