Catherine Riopelle, Grade 10, harbors a profound love for the ocean and is dedicated to protecting marine life and fighting microplastic pollution. Her passion is evident in her academic work, with her Human Project, Global Citizenship CAP Project, and Biology final focusing on these critical environmental issues. 

Catherine and her family recently volunteered with scientists from the Ocean First Institute and the International Sea Keepers Association. They spent three intensive days 45 miles offshore in the Gulf of Mexico, collecting data on the critically endangered Goliath Grouper. This impressive species can grow up to eight feet long, weigh 800 pounds, and face habitat loss, overfishing, and pollution threats. As an umbrella species, the Goliath Grouper’s survival is vital for maintaining the entire ecosystem's health. 

The team’s work included gathering data on spawning aggregations to help inform local, state, and international conservation efforts and support vital wildlife management decisions.  

Catherine’s hands-on research experiences were captured in the documentary “Disappearing Giants: What Happened to Florida’s Goliath Groupers,” where viewers can spot her in action!

Watch the short documentary!