Merle Stanfill is an individual with a deep connection to the marine environment, particularly around the Florida Keys, where he has observed significant ecological changes over a period of seventeen years. His experiences and observations are rooted in his engagement with the local fish stocks, water temperatures, algae populations, and coral formations. Stanfill's intimate knowledge of the marine ecosystem is likely derived from his direct involvement with fishing practices in the region, which has given him a firsthand perspective on the environmental shifts and their impacts on both marine life and human activities. His insights into the changes in spawning seasons, weather patterns, and fishing pressures suggest a background that combines elements of practical fishing experience with an observational acumen that comes from long-term exposure to the marine environment. Stanfill's concern with the decrease in fish numbers due to overfishing, as well as his awareness of issues such as debris in the water and the personal challenge of sunlight sensitivity, indicate a multifaceted relationship with the sea, encompassing ecological, economic, and health-related aspects.

Scope and Content Note
The interview with Merle Stanfill, conducted by Karen DeMaria for the Nature Conservancy and the Center for Marine Conservation, provides a comprehensive overview of the changes in the marine environment of the Florida Keys over a seventeen-year period. Stanfill discusses a range of topics, including the decline in fish stocks, alterations in water temperature, the proliferation of algae, and the transformation of coral formations. His commentary extends to the effects of these environmental changes on local fishing methods and practices, highlighting the adaptability and challenges faced by those who rely on the sea for their livelihood. The conversation also delves into the specifics of fish population dynamics, noting shifts in spawning seasons and the impact of weather on fish behavior. Stanfill's observations on overfishing underscore a critical environmental concern, pointing to the broader implications of human activity on marine ecosystems. Additionally, the interview touches on the presence of debris in the water, which poses a threat to both marine life and the cleanliness of the marine habitat. Stanfill's personal experiences, such as his sensitivity to sunlight, provide a human dimension to the discussion, emphasizing the direct and indirect ways in which environmental changes affect individuals. The content of the interview serves as a valuable oral history record, documenting the intricate and evolving relationship between humans and the marine environment in a specific geographical context.