Duke Marshall and Mark Nelson are prominent figures from Smith Island, Maryland, known for their active involvement in the community's affairs. They have been instrumental in addressing the challenges faced by the island, including an aging population, a declining workforce, and changing demographics. Their commitment to the island's welfare is deeply rooted in its unique isolation and history, which they consider integral to the identity of its residents.

Hattie Train is a young woman hailing from Long Island, Maine, with a rich family history deeply rooted in the fishing industry. Born and raised in a family of fishermen, she has been actively involved in the fishing industry from a very young age. Her family's fishing activities are not confined to a single area but span from the cove near their house, between Mariners and Cleaves Landing, to offshore federal permitted areas and behind the island. Her father, in particular, is known to fish further offshore.

Jim Fawcett is a professional associated with the University of Southern California Sea Grant Program, where he engages in work related to marine and coastal environments. His role at the Sea Grant Program involves addressing various issues pertinent to coastal areas, including environmental stewardship, public access, and the economic aspects of waterfronts. Fawcett's expertise is particularly evident in his discussions about Marina del Rey in Los Angeles, which he identifies as a significant working waterfront.

Joseph Lane is a dedicated academic instructor hailing from Kalamazoo, Michigan, with a fervent passion for educational tourism and historical preservation. His academic and professional journey has been marked by a deep commitment to connecting people with the rich maritime heritage of the Great Lakes region. Lane's interest in the historical significance and the architectural beauty of lighthouses has positioned him as an advocate for the restoration and conservation of these iconic structures.

Kathy Evans is recognized for her pivotal role as the environmental program manager at the West Michigan Shoreline Regional Development Commission, where she has been instrumental in spearheading environmental initiatives. Her career is marked by a deep commitment to environmental stewardship, particularly in the context of maintaining and revitalizing the working waterfront in Muskegon, Michigan.

Kenneth Walker is a seasoned professional affiliated with NOAA's Office for Coastal Management, where he plays a pivotal role in addressing the complexities of coastal conservation and utilization. His career trajectory has been marked by a deep commitment to the stewardship of coastal resources, reflecting a personal connection to the working waterfront that has been both a driving force and a source of insight in his professional endeavors.

Larry Collins is President of the San Francisco Community Fishing Association. He was born on July 28, 1957. Larry Collins discusses the context, origins, and development of the San Francisco Community Fishing Association. He describes the need for access to fish, markets, and infrastructure in order for working waterfronts to succeed. He explains that the fishing association was created in an effort to address these needs of the small boat fishermen in San Francisco as catch share programs posed challenges to this fleet.

Laurie Kay Sommers is a freelance folklorist and historic preservation consultant based in Okemos, Michigan. She has been writing about Michigan history and culture since the 1970’s. Laurie Sommers was interviewed to document the experience of Fishtown, Michigan, in establishing the Fishtown Preservation Society. Bringing together local expertise, the Fishtown Preservation Society has combined historic preservation efforts along with folklore to promote stewardship of the historic Fishtown waterfront. Ms.

Lewis “Lewie” Lawrence is the Executive Director of the Middle Peninsula Planning District Commission in Saluda, Virginia. Lewie Lawrence was interviewed to document the Middle Peninsual Planning District Commission’s experience in establishing the country’s first Public Access Authority. The Public Access Authority was established to identify, acquire and manage water access opportunities in the Middle Peninsula of Virginia. Mr.

Matt Campo is a senior research specialist at Rutgers University, where he has dedicated his career to the study and advocacy of sustainable urban planning, with a particular focus on waterfront communities. His expertise encompasses a broad range of issues related to coastal areas, including industrial development, commercial fishing, recreational use, and the challenges posed by climate change and sea level rise. Campo's work is characterized by a deep understanding of the complex dynamics that shape waterfronts and the diverse needs of the populations that depend on them.