"We are committed to researching and developing new technologies for rescue and prevention of harmful human interaction on marine life.  We strive to educate communities on how to be stewards of the environment by focusing on the ocean and its global importance to life on Earth."

Mission Driven

Sea Mammal Education Learning Technology Society™ (SMELTS™) is a solution-based organization that designs and builds tools and technologies to reduce the negative impact of human activity on marine life.

SMELTS has developed a patented Line-Free/Ropeless Lift Bag fishing technology for bottom set fisheries that allows fishers to fish and whales to live without the danger of entanglement.

Learn More About what we do

Products & Services

The SMELTS product lineup includes Lift-Raft™ retrieval systems, modular Science-Raft™ research platforms, integrated acoustic control & marking solutions, and compressed air infrastructure.

Each component is designed to operate as part of a unified subsea system focused on durability, interoperability, and repeatable performance.

See our product lineup

Integrated Marine Technology

SMELTS technology bridges acoustic command systems, vessel electronics, and engineered lift platforms to create a standardized approach to on-demand operations. Designed for interoperability and long-term durability, our systems redefine how subsea assets are deployed, marked, and recovered.

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The Ocean Researcher

The Ocean Researcher is a fully equipped marine operations vessel designed to support on-demand system testing, glider deployments, and advanced subsea research. Outfitted with integrated electronics, acoustic systems, and deployment infrastructure, it serves as a working foundation for real-world marine innovation.

explore the vessel

Media

Explore recent news coverage, company announcements, and technical updates from SMELTS. From industry features to development milestones, this section highlights the ongoing work shaping our systems and partnerships.

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Our Team

Captain Richard Riels
Founder, Executive Director and VP of Research & Development, Lead Engineer
Ann Marie Riels
President, Co-Founder
Kevin Rand
East Coast Director
Henry Komar
Mechanical & Manufacturing Engineer
Marc Palombo
Manufacturing & Service Technician
Art Balzotti
Art Director
Stephanie Norman
Board Member
Cindy Elliser
Board Member

Some Of Our Partners

Contact Us

For questions, information, or support, please feel free to reach out!

Contact Now

1003 Iowa Heights Road
Sedro Woolley, WA 98284
360-303-9388
info@smelts.org

Mission & ImpactAbout UsOur StoryIndustry ImpactWhale ConservationFisheries Future
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The information presented on this website is provided for general informational purposes only and may be updated or modified without notice. Product specifications, capabilities, and availability are subject to change. SMELTS is not responsible for any decisions or actions taken based on the content of this site. For official documentation or technical support, please contact us directly. Logos are the property of their respective owners.