The Florida Institute of Oceanography (FIO) was established by the State University System (SUS) to support and enhance Florida's coastal marine science, oceanography and related management programs through education, research, and public outreach. The FIO facilitates the activities of educators, scientists, and agencies responding to state, regional, national and international issues through provision of centralized facilities and research vessels. Specifically the Institute -
1. Develops and promotes education and research initiatives, and provides infrastructure for state and regional marine education and research programs which expand opportunities for the SUS and other members of the Institute.
2. Supports existing State educational programs and members' research programs with centrally maintained facilities and research vessels to avoid the establishment and maintenance of duplicative oceanographic and marine science facilities and capital equipment.

The FIO facilitates the programs of scientists, educators, and their students at member institutions, and coordinates an infrastructure to address the marine concerns of state and federal agencies, and the public.

Research Vessels

The R/V Suncoaster (110 ft) and the R/V Bellows (71 ft) are operated by the Florida Institute of Oceanography for the entire State University System. Bayboro Harbor, University of South Florida St Petersburg campus, is home port to these vessels. The Marine Superintendent, Randy Maxson, can be reached at (727)553-1100.

Keys Marine Lab

The Keys Marine Laboratory (KML), purchased by the State of Florida in 1989, is operated jointlyby the Florida Marine Research Institute, Florida, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission and the Florida Institute of Oceanography, State University System of Florida. The KML was established as a full service marine research and education center serving undergraduate and graduate students, faculty, and researchers from the state, national, and international scientific communities. The Lab Manager can be reached at (305)664-9101

The FIO is located on the University of South Florida's St. Petersburg campus. Keys Marine Lab is located on Long Key, a two hour drive from Miami International Airport at mile marker 68.5 on US Route 1.

Dr. John C. Ogden, Director ogden@seas.marine.usf.edu 727/553-1100