About Us
Harnessing the Power of Sound for Conservation
Opsanus Fund is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. We exist to empower scientists, researchers, and conservationists with the resources they need to study soundscapes and protect the environments they represent. We believe that studying sounds provides unique insights into nature and that preserving the sounds of nature is essential to counter ongoing the biodiversity crisis.
Our Story
Opsanus Fund was created in 2025 by lifelong friends and colleagues out of a desire of to conserve the sound of nature. Our leadership team is made up of scientists, conservationists, and lovers of the outdoors.
Meet The Team
Dr. Benjamin Colbert
Founder & Executive Director
Pierce Han
Director & Secretary
Thomas Fortune
Director & Treasurer
Dr. Erica Staaterman
Director
What's with the name?
We are frequently asked, what on earth does Opsanus mean?
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Opsanus fund is named after a group of vocal fish also called toadfish. Toadfish use sound to call to each other - both during spawning and to warn other toadfish to stay away from their eggs.
Click below to listen to toadfish that our executive director recorded in the Chesapeake Bay.
