Dr. James "Buddy" Powell Memorial Fund
During his life, Dr. James “Buddy” Powell was an unwavering champion for the conservation of the marine world and those who sought to protect it.
To honor Buddy’s memory and ensure that his legacy continues, the Dr. James “Buddy” Memorial Fund has been created to support the work of the Clearwater Marine Aquarium Research Institute, for which he served as Executive Director.
A Marine Life Hero
In summer 2025, the world lost a marine conservation hero with the passing of Dr. James “Buddy” Powell. During a career spanning 50 years, Buddy implemented lasting change for threatened species, habitats and communities from the coasts of Africa to the springs of Crystal River. His field expertise, technical knowledge, and ability to connect people led to research initiatives and policy advances for species such as the North Atlantic right whale, sea turtles, and manatees throughout their range. His intrepid spirit made him an ideal field biologist, advancing research throughout the Caribbean and Africa which involved local communities and advanced the careers of in-country scientists. Buddy enriched the lives of all who knew him with his gentle, kind manner. He displayed genuine interest in people, and provided endless opportunities to those committed to conservation. This trait also made him an ideal educator, a role he accepted with ease, lecturing globally and serving as a mentor to young researchers.
In the Clearwater Marine Aquarium Research Institute, Buddy built a team of dedicated staff members that lead vital work necessary to safeguarding the world’s coastal species and habitats.
In honor of Buddy’s incredible legacy, help us continue the critical work of the Clearwater Marine Aquarium Research Institute. Your support will continue Buddy’s legacy by supporting research and conservation efforts in the United States and Caribbean.
His Mission, His Legacy
EDUCATION & OUTREACH
Buddy was a visionary leader who shaped marine conservation through science, partnerships, and public engagement. Buddy co-founded the Right Whale Festival in 2009 to build awareness for the highly endangered North Atlantic right whale. In 2015, he was instrumental in building the Healthy Oceans Marine Classroom, a mobile unit that educated middle and high school students about the dangers of marine debris.
SPECIES RESEARCH & REHABILITATION
Buddy is well-known for his groundbreaking work on the African manatee, as well as leading the longest longitudinal study of manatees outside of Florida through the Belize manatee health assessment and tagging study. He conducted 20+ years of research on the endangered North Atlantic right whale, and had of late been commencing work on the newly discovered Rice’s whale. He assisted efforts with the Manatee Rescue and Rehabilitation Partnership and was fundamental in the opening of CMA’s Manatee Rehabilitation Center in 2024. Buddy was also instrumental in assisting to establish protected areas in West Africa, Belize, and Cuba.
BUILDING A NEW GENERATION OF CONSERVATION LEADERS
Buddy placed significant emphasis on supporting the careers of young researchers, women in science, and scientists from developing countries. He also worked tirelessly to provide opportunities to those that showed promise and dedication. Several of Buddy’s mentees are currently in leadership positions at CMARI due to his strong capacity building skills. Last year, Buddy established the first post-doctoral program at CMARI to foster newly graduated PhD students. As a result, the CMARI team are a solid, diligent, and committed group.
In honor of Buddy’s incredible legacy, help us continue his commitment to safeguarding and protecting the marine world.
Work such as the North Atlantic right whale surveys, Florida and Belize manatee programs, as well as the Right Whale Festival are continuing through the incredible talent of the CMARI team. Your support will ensure that these projects continue to grow in the future.
