Silent Flight Studios and Ocean State Media announced last month that production had begun on Ocean State, a new four-part PBS docuseries that explores Rhode Island’s diverse marine habitats and wildlife. Filming is currently underway in Rhode Island’s coastal habitats, an area underrepresented for its exceptional biodiversity. Directed by award-winning filmmaker, Tomas Koeck and produced by Silent Flight Studios, Ocean State will premiere in December 2025 on PBS Rhode Island, with seasonal installments continuing through 2027. The series will also be available for streaming nationwide on the PBS App.
Supported in part by Ocean State Media, the Planet Fuel Charitable Fund with The Nature Conservancy, Block Island Maritime Institute and the Atlantic Shark Institute serving as conservation partners, Ocean State highlights the fragile ecosystems that make Rhode Island unique. Each episode explores a distinct marine habitat—from barrier beaches and tidal marshes to eelgrass meadows, rocky shores, and offshore waters—revealing the intricate relationships that sustain life along the state’s coastline. Following the episodic release, a feature-length film scheduled for 2027 will weave these stories together into a comprehensive narrative, offering a panoramic view of Rhode Island’s role within an Atlantic biodiversity corridor shaped by both cold northern and warm southern ocean currents.
The series is directed by Tomas Koeck, an award-winning filmmaker, journalist, and expeditionist recognized by the Society of Professional Journalists for excellence in environmental storytelling. Koeck has contributed to projects with National Geographic, PBS Nature, Smithsonian Channel, and the National Audubon Society. Supported by Canon USA and endorsed by the Connecticut Audubon Society as an ethical wildlife photographer, Koeck brings a blend of artistry, scientific insight, and conservation focus to the production.
Earlier this year, Silent Flight Studios released Chasing Fins, the “pilot” episode of Ocean State, produced in collaboration with the Atlantic Shark Institute. The special, which explores the lives and migrations of Rhode Island’s shark species, premiered on Ocean State Media in August and is now available on PBS.org and the PBS App. The series will also spotlight the efforts of regional researchers, conservation organizations, and coastal communities working to protect Rhode Island’s shores, waters, and wildlife. Learn more about the series at Silent Flight Studios’ Ocean State page.
The Atlantic Shark Institute is a 501(C)(3) nonprofit research organization dedicated to the study, management and conservation of shark species in the Atlantic Ocean. Through science-based research, the ASI works to advance understanding of shark behavior, migration, and population dynamics while promoting ocean stewardship and sustainable marine ecosystems.
Silent Flight Studios is a nonprofit production company specializing in environmental documentaries that connect audiences to the natural world. Led by award-winning filmmaker Tomas Koeck, the studio’s mission is to create visually powerful, scientifically grounded films that inspire conservation and foster a deeper appreciation of wildlife and wild places.
