On July 19, 2000, Matthew Barr interviewed Rich Carpenter for the Wild Caught oral history project. Rich Carpenter, a marine biologist by training, discusses his role at the North Carolina Division of Marine Fisheries, where he oversees the management and stewardship of marine and estuarine resources. Carpenter explains the agency's responsibilities, which include conducting fisheries management, enforcing regulations, maintaining artificial reefs, and overseeing oyster programs along the North Carolina coast. The interview covers the diversity of North Carolina's fisheries, highlighting Sneads Ferry as a focal point. Carpenter describes how the Division collaborates with local fishermen to maintain oyster beds and monitor commercial catches for species such as shrimp, crabs, oysters, clams, and finfish, including flounder. He emphasizes the uniqueness of Sneads Ferry as a traditional fishing town that has maintained its fishing heritage, despite increasing coastal development in the region. Carpenter shares insights into various fisheries management strategies, such as implementing fishery management plans and monitoring the health of fish stocks. He discusses challenges such as overfishing, pollution, and regulatory changes, and explains how new technologies and regulations impact commercial fishing practices. He touches on the concept of bycatch and the use of Turtle Excluder Devices (TEDs) to minimize unintended catches. Carpenter also reflects on the adaptability of commercial fishermen in Sneads Ferry, who often juggle multiple fisheries throughout the year and possess a deep knowledge of the fishing trade passed down through generations. Overall, the interview provides an in-depth look at the complexities of commercial fishing, the importance of sustainable fisheries management, and the resilience of Sneads Ferry's fishing community in the face of environmental, regulatory, and economic challenges.