Dr. Paul Montagna is a renowned marine biologist with a particular focus on freshwater inflow. Born and raised in New York City, he pursued his undergraduate studies at Stony Brook on Long Island before earning his Master's degree at Northeastern University in Boston. He later completed his Ph.D. at the University of South Carolina. Dr. Montagna's journey into the field of science was somewhat accidental. Initially, he aspired to be a high school biology teacher, but after a student teaching course, he realized that he was more drawn to the scientific aspects of biology.

Ray Allen is a dedicated environmentalist with a deep understanding of the importance of freshwater to bays and estuaries. He has been instrumental in the Coastal Bend Bays and Estuaries Program, where he has worked tirelessly to ensure that educational programs are tailored to meet the specific teaching requirements of students and teachers. Allen's work has not only been focused on the scientific aspects of the environment but also on the historical and artistic elements, providing a holistic learning experience for students.