Team E.C.C.O.     Engaged / Connected/ Committed/ for the Oceans ​

 MISSION

​The Aquarium & Shark Lab is focused on education, enrichment, and exploration of the ocean world.

Science, history, math, and culture are integrated into our exhibits and programs. Like the tide, we are in a continuous motion saying "Why not" and "What if" as our students and interns research ideas, document, and defy existing standards.

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DID YOU KNOW...

The Aquarium & Shark Lab by Team ECCO is:

• The first inland aquarium in NC
• Member of: Oceana, American Elasmobranch Society; NC Science Network; National Marine Educators; American Meteorological Society, NMEA, Nature Foundation of St. Maarten, AMS, Reef Check
• Listed in the top 150 aquariums in the USA by Everything Fish Keeping
• Member of the  Career & Technical Education Advisory Board HCPS;
• An NC Environmental Education Site; a Fish Education Site for REEF; 
• Part of the NC Chapel Hill pilot program for environmental education
• Has established networks with the GA Aquarium, Riverbanks Zoo, John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, and The Field Museum in Chicago
•  Has provided service work and training at the Biosphere2 in AZ.
• Houses the only immersive marine science intern program for college and high school students in WNC

WHAT PEOPLE ARE SAYING...

TESTIMONIALS

​"I am so thankful for the opportunities you have provided for him and the lessons he has learned this year at the aquarium. We are grateful for your part in his education experience this school year.
 Thank You,
Amy C.

" Thank you so much, BJ! HCPS loves you! 
                                 Dr. W. Frye, Assistant Superintendent for Instructional Services

" Thanks so much ... for your tremendous engagement of our students.  You and your team are truly champions of opportunity for the youth of our community. Know this, you are appreciated!  jb
          Dr. J. Bryant, Superintendent, HCPS

Loved this place. Very friendly staff of volunteers. Clear rules and lots of touching for young minds. Kids can spend an hour in here if they are the curious sort.

Took my ten year old granddaughter one rainy afternoon. We so enjoyed the friendly staff eager to answer questions and share information! Would recommend this for anyone interested in having a wonderful up close view of the fish!

There are lots of aquariums, touch pool, and people to help in this Main Street store front aquarium. Every time I have families with children visit this is a place I take them, and have never been disappointed.

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TO SUPPORT OCEAN EDUCATION

A 501c3 non-profit organization
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