SAFE Shark and Ray
One home for shark & ray conservation
Public knowledge for everyone — and a shared data platform for the facilities, researchers, and partners driving recovery worldwide.
The Challenge
An ancient lineage under modern pressure
Sharks face challenges common to all wildlife — but the overwhelming threat arises from destructive fishing practices. Inadequate governance and ineffective fisheries management are enabling the depletion of populations across the world's ocean. Meeting recovery goals now demands collaboration, shared data, and collective influence at a global scale.
Our Vision
By 2035, we have built diverse partnerships to deliver effective action for the conservation and recovery of sharks and rays.
2025–2029 Conservation Program Plan
Four ways we drive recovery
A new approach to collaborative conservation — letting partners work together where their combined impact is greatest.
Advancing shark science, care and husbandry
Through research & data sharing we are expanding networks globally for a greater collective impact.
Advancing the science of breeding, reproduction and reintroduction
By taking direct species conservation action for critically endangered species we hope to define recovery for sharks and rays and coordinate global programs to maximize resources and efficiency.
Advocating for sound conservation policy
Aligning our international partners to influence and address the global shark trade, coordinate on fisheries policy and advocate with our audiences for collective action.
Targeted messaging for expanded audiences
To communicate effectively by developing targeted tools for diverse, international audiences, help communities coexist with sharks, to increase awareness and inspire individual and collective conservation action to protect species.
Programs & Initiatives
Conservation, put into practice
Fins for the Future
An annual toolkit for Shark & Ray Awareness Days, available in English and Spanish, equipping educators to reach new audiences.
Census & Lab Data
Population census and elasmobranch blood/lab reference values contributed by facilities worldwide — with access to full records as a partner.
Elasmobranch Blood Project
Building shared reference data on elasmobranch blood values to improve health assessment and care across institutions.
Citizen Science & Networking
Connecting researchers and the public through citizen-science resources, funding opportunities, and education networks.
Sustainable Feed Project
Advancing sustainable seafood sourcing for animals in human care, reducing the conservation footprint of husbandry.
Get Involved
Be part of the recovery
Support conservation action for the world's sharks and rays, become a partner, or use our tools to speak up for the ocean. Every contribution advances the plan.