Nicholas Alfonso was born on May 23, 1965, in New Orleans, Louisiana, to Jerry and Ramona Alfonso. He is married to Lisa Christofi Alfonso, and they have two children, Kristy and Misty. Alfonso is a commercial fisherman and a member of the St. Bernard Coastal Advisory Board and the Knights of Columbus. He was interviewed by Stephanie Scull-DeArmey for the University of Southern Mississippi Center for Oral History and Cultural Heritage on April 24, 2012. Alfonso currently resides in Louisiana and has been a commercial fisherman for a significant period. He has experienced the challenges of natural disasters, such as Hurricane Katrina, which impacted his home and work. Alfonso's livelihood is deeply connected to his work as a fisherman, which he values as a means of providing for his family. He has observed the impact of the Deepwater Horizon Oil Disaster on the fisheries he depends on for his livelihood. Despite the challenges, Alfonso remains dedicated to his work as a fisherman and is committed to supporting his family through his profession. His experiences and insights provide valuable perspectives on the impact of environmental disasters on the fishing industry and coastal communities.

Scope and Content Note:
The interview with Nicholas Alfonso, conducted by Stephanie Scull-DeArmey for the University of Southern Mississippi Center for Oral History and Cultural Heritage, provides a comprehensive account of Alfonso's personal background, experiences as a commercial fisherman, and the impact of environmental disasters on his life and livelihood. The interview covers Alfonso's early life, upbringing in New Orleans, and his career as a commercial fisherman. Alfonso discusses the significance of his work to his family and the challenges he has faced, including the impact of Hurricane Katrina on his home and fishing boats. The interview also delves into Alfonso's experiences during the Deepwater Horizon Oil Disaster and its effects on the fisheries he depends on for his livelihood. Alfonso shares insights into the environmental, economic, and social implications of the disaster on the fishing industry and coastal communities. Additionally, the interview provides details about Alfonso's personal experiences and emotions during these challenging times, offering a firsthand perspective on the human impact of environmental disasters. The interview captures Alfonso's reflections on the importance of his work as a fisherman, his dedication to providing for his family, and the resilience required to navigate the aftermath of natural and industrial disasters. Furthermore, the interview touches on Alfonso's involvement in community organizations, such as the St. Bernard Coastal Advisory Board and the Knights of Columbus, shedding light on his broader engagement within his local community. Overall, the interview with Nicholas Alfonso offers a rich and multifaceted account of his life, work, and the profound impact of environmental disasters on his personal and professional life as a commercial fisherman.

Keywords: species caught, marketing catch, learning to fish, grading shrimp, bycatch, equipment, moon's effects on sea life, trawl nets, regulations, imported shrimp, rising fuel costs, wetlands, freshwater diversion, Bonnet Carré Spillway, Hurricane Katrina, conservation, boats, skimmer nets, skimmer nets, Brazilian shrimp, turtle excluder devices, sea turtles, Shrimp Advisory Board, levees, Katrina debris, net making, BP Deepwater Horizon oil disaster, Vessels of Opportunity, sea birds, crabbing, lost-income claim against BP, current health of fisheries, testing seafood for eating safety, naturally-occurring oil seeps, oil-eating bacteria, rising costs of fishing, dwindling prices paid for catches.