Interview with semi-retired aquaculturist, David Leighton, conducted on 19 December 2013 at Carlsbad Aquafarm in Carlsbad California. Dr. Paul K. Dayton, Emeritus Professor at Scripps Institution of Oceanography was the interviewer.

Interview with San Diego born SCUBA diving pioneer and photographer, Chuck Nicklin, conducted on 29 January 2014 at Scripps Institution of Oceanography in La Jolla, California. Dr. Paul K. Dayton, Emeritus Professor at Scripps Institution of Oceanography was the interviewer.

Corey Thomas Miller, born in 1982 in Jefferson Parish in Metairie, is a prominent advocate for coastal restoration in Louisiana. Raised in Metairie, he attended high school in New Orleans and later pursued his higher education at Louisiana State University (LSU) in Baton Rouge. After his undergraduate studies, Miller decided to further his education by pursuing a master's degree in sociology at the University of New Orleans (UNO). During his time at UNO, he was fortunate to secure an assistantship with the UNO Center for Hazard Assessment, Response, and Technology (CHART).

Kellyn Lacour-Conant is a dedicated environmentalist with a deep-rooted connection to the wetlands of Louisiana. Born on April 13th, 1993 in Houston, Texas, she spent her childhood summers in Louisiana, where her family originates from. Her early experiences with the water, both in Houston, the "Bayou City", and in Louisiana, where her family engaged in fishing and hunting, instilled in her a profound appreciation for wetland ecosystems. This appreciation eventually led her to pursue a career in environmental conservation.

Victoria Sagrera Bourque, born on December 31, 1990, in Lafayette, Louisiana, is a passionate advocate for coastal restoration in Louisiana. She grew up in Mouton Cove, a small area just south of Abbeville, Louisiana, and north of Intracoastal City, in a family with strong agricultural roots. Her childhood memories are filled with experiences on the farm, from following her grandfather around to testing the soil for salinity after storms. These experiences, coupled with her coastal upbringing, fueled her passion for coastal restoration.

Jacqueline Mary Richard, born on August 30, 1980, in Naperville, Illinois, is a prominent advocate for coastal restoration in Louisiana. She moved to New Orleans to pursue her graduate studies at the University of New Orleans, initially intending to become a vertebrate paleontologist. However, her academic journey took an unexpected turn when she took a class on coastal restoration with Denise Reed. This class inspired her to contribute to the cause of coastal restoration, leading her to volunteer and learn more about the coast.

Richie Blink, born on August 31, 1986, in New Orleans, is a native of Louisiana with a deep-rooted connection to the state's wetlands and coastal ecosystems. He spent his childhood in Empire, Louisiana, a small fishing village located about 60 miles south of New Orleans. His father, a commercial fisherman, introduced him to the intricacies of the delta ecosystem through various fishing activities such as oystering, shrimping, and crab trapping. This early exposure to the wetlands fostered a profound understanding of the delta's systems and their importance to the local community.

Ed Davidson is a seasoned mariner with over 25 years of experience operating boats in the Florida Keys. His extensive maritime career spans various sectors including sport fishing charters, headboat fishing operations, commercial fishing, and diving and snorkeling charters. Davidson's deep connection with the marine environment is not only professional but also academic. He holds a science degree and has conducted population studies on commercially valuable species. Over the years, Davidson has been an eyewitness to the steady decline in water quality and clarity in the Florida Keys.

Bob Holston and Cecelia Raycroft are long-time residents of the Florida Keys, with a deep connection to the local marine environment. Bob Holston, a former Navy serviceman, has been diving since the early 1970s. After leaving the Navy in 1972, he opened a dive shop, which has been his primary occupation ever since. His experience in the Navy and subsequent years of diving have given him a wealth of knowledge about the local marine ecosystems and the challenges they face. Cecelia Raycroft, on the other hand, has lived in the Keys her entire life, which spans over forty-four years.

Charles Mills is a long-time resident of the Florida Keys, with a deep understanding of the local environment and the changes it has undergone over the years. His knowledge extends to the intricacies of the local water systems, including the impact of septic tanks and drain fields on the water quality. Mills is a strong advocate for responsible septic tank maintenance, arguing that regular cleaning can prevent system failures and potential contamination of the surrounding waterways.

Bennett Orr is a seasoned commercial fisherman who has been living in the Marathon area since 1993. Born in 1935, Orr has spent a significant portion of his life in the Florida Keys, specifically in Key West and Marathon. His primary occupation is fishing, with a focus on catching crawfish and stone crabs. During the summer, Orr switches to hook and line fishing, primarily targeting dolphins. He is known for his extensive knowledge of the local waters, fishing in the east and west to the north shore.

Debbie Harrison is a long-time resident of the Lower Keys in Florida, having lived there for fifteen years, with a brief hiatus when she returned to Michigan to care for her mother. She is a certified diver since 1983 and has spent a significant amount of time exploring the back country and diving on the reef. Harrison has held a variety of jobs, including grafting, hotel/motel work, and working on a lobster boat, which she considered more fun than work. She has also worked as a planner for the Florida Keys Land & Sea Trust and another unidentified organization.

Dave Nolan is a long-time resident of the Keys, having lived there for thirteen years. Prior to his move, he served in the Navy and was stationed in Japan. Nolan is currently in his late forties, soon to turn fifty. He first visited the Keys in the early 1960s before eventually deciding to settle there. Nolan earned a four-year college degree, and attended graduate school. After leaving the Navy, he initially worked in the charter boat industry before transitioning to his current role as the director of the AIDS Prevention Center.

Bernard Russell, a native of Whale Harbor and part-time fishing guide, has a deep-rooted connection with the ocean and the local fishing industry. He was born and raised in Key West, and currently resides in Islamorada. Born into a family with a long-standing history in the area, Russell spent most of his life caring for boats and engaging in fishing activities. His grandfather, a notable figure in the community, was instrumental in shaping the local fishing industry, which included the establishment of two fish houses built on the side of the railroad.

Don DeMaria is a long-time resident of the Florida Keys, having moved there permanently in 1977, although he had been visiting the area since 1965. He initially lived in Key West before moving to Summerland around 1984. DeMaria is a college graduate and has been a commercial fisherman since 1972. His fishing experience extends to various locations, including Tortugas, Boca Grande, and Marquesas, with his work in Tortugas beginning when he moved to the Keys permanently. DeMaria's fishing methods include spearfishing and catching tropical fish.

Curtis Kruer is a seasoned professional in the field of fisheries, with a wealth of experience and knowledge that spans several years. His career has been marked by a deep involvement in various aspects of the fishery industry, including research, data collection, and report writing. Kruer's work has been instrumental in contributing to the understanding of fishery dynamics, as evidenced by his numerous reports and documents that have been used as reference materials in the field.

Blondel Handcock is a seasoned fisherman with a rich history in the industry. Handcock has spent a significant portion of his life in the fishing industry, with his career spanning from 1976 to 1978. His experiences have not only been confined to his birthplace, but he also had the opportunity to work in Europe. Handcock's expertise in the field is evident in his detailed knowledge of fishing practices and the industry's dynamics. He has a deep understanding of the value of certain fishing practices and the implications of not adhering to them.

Narrator Pete Worthington, of Marathon, Florida, was a commercial fisher at the time of the interview with extensive experience in commercial fishing. His life in the Keys has provided him with a unique perspective on the local environment and the fishing industry. Over the years, Worthington has witnessed significant changes in Florida Bay, particularly noting a decline in water clarity and an increase in suspended algae particles. His firsthand observations and experiences have given him insight into the environmental shifts and challenges facing the region.

Narrator Ray Van Houten, of Big Pine Key, Florida, was a "Jack of all trades" and recreational fisher who lived aboard his boat. Born in the early 20th century, Van Houton witnessed the transformation of the Florida Keys from a remote string of islands to a bustling tourist destination. He grew up in a time when the Keys were largely undeveloped, and the economy was primarily driven by fishing and small-scale agriculture.

Ted Hoverson, of Sugarloaf Key, Florida, is a seasoned professional with a background in public service, having dedicated a significant portion of his career to working for the U.S. Post Office and U.S. Customs. His tenure in these roles has provided him with a unique perspective on the operational intricacies of federal agencies, particularly in the context of the Florida Keys, where he has been stationed.

Tim Daniels is a seasoned pilot and commercial fisherman whose life and career are deeply intertwined with the coastal and marine environments of Florida Bay. With years of experience navigating the skies and waters of this region, Daniels has developed a profound understanding of its natural rhythms and the delicate balance of its ecosystems.

Ray Bently of Big Pine Key, Florida, was a recreational fisher at the time of the interview. He is a figure with a rich history connected to Key West, Florida. His narrative is deeply intertwined with the region's evolution, particularly in the context of its fishing industry. Bently's experiences reflect a time when Key West underwent significant changes, both culturally and environmentally.

Mimi and Simon Stafford are long-time residents of Key West, Florida, with deep ties to the local fishing community. Their lives have been intricately woven into the fabric of this coastal town, known for its vibrant culture and rich maritime history. The Staffords have witnessed the transformation of Key West from a sleepy fishing village to a bustling tourist destination. Throughout their lives, they have been actively involved in the fishing industry, which has been both their livelihood and passion.

Narrator Robert Nathan, of Arlington, Virginia was an economist and recreational fisher at the time of the interview.  He has been fishing the Florida Keys since 1937.
 

Narrator Peter Gladding of Key West, Florida was a commercial fisherman at the time of the interview.
 

Debbie Carpe is a long-time resident of the Florida Keys, having lived there since she was a child. She has a vivid memory of a significant event that occurred when she was around twelve years old, a phenomenon known as the red tide, which turned the sea red and caused a massive die-off of marine life. Carpe's recollection of the event is detailed, describing how the water looked and the impact on the fish, many of which were gasping for air at the surface. She took it upon herself to collect the struggling fish and bring them to a holding place at Coco Plum.

Herb Marvin is a native of Homestead, Florida, with deep familial ties to the region's commercial fishing industry. His personal history is interwoven with the environmental and industrial changes in Florida Bay. Marvin's upbringing in Homestead provided him with a unique perspective on the natural landscape and the community's reliance on its resources. His family's involvement in commercial fishing allowed him firsthand insight into the practices and challenges of the industry.

Ed Swift is a seasoned businessman who has spent over four decades residing in the Keys. His life has been deeply intertwined with the waters surrounding the Keys, with experiences ranging from diving to fishing. Swift's passion for marine life was inherited from his father, a diver and journalist, who played a significant role in the charter boat fishing industry in Marathon. Swift's childhood memories are filled with fishing adventures in Marathon, which have shaped his understanding and appreciation of the marine ecosystem.

Grady Sullivan of Big Pine Key, Florida is a seasoned marine life collector and fisherman who has been a full-time resident of the Florida Keys for over two decades. His primary occupation involves collecting marine specimens for various purposes, including wholesale, retail, and for renowned marine life institutions such as SeaWorld and Miami Seaquarium. In addition to this, Sullivan also collects plants, mollusks, and live rocks for aquariums, showcasing a broad understanding and appreciation of marine life.

Glenn Evans and Mark Nease are two divers/boat captains with extensive experience and knowledge about the marine ecosystem of the Florida Keys. Glenn Evans, a seasoned marine biologist, has spent a significant portion of his career studying the changes in the marine ecosystem, with a particular focus on water conditions such as clarity, algae blooms, and visibility. His work has contributed significantly to the understanding of the impact of environmental changes on marine life.

Freeman Bateman, Sr. is a seasoned commercial shrimper from Everglades City with a wealth of knowledge and experience in the industry. His career spans several decades, during which he has witnessed significant changes in the shrimping landscape. Bateman's deep understanding of the history of shrimping is rooted in his personal experiences and the stories passed down through generations. His insights extend beyond the technical aspects of shrimping to include the environmental factors that impact shrimp habitats.

Captain Jack Burleson, known as "Capt. Jack," was born in 1922.  He was drafted from the Coast Guard into the Army during World War II.  After the war, he held various roles, including a dive instructor in Marathon, guiding divers in the Florida Keys, and a versatile handyman, carpenter, taxi driver, and dog trainer. Jack was also an artist and painted with acrylics on unconventional canvases like sea beans and driftwood.

Narrator George Jones, of Key Largo, Florida, was a park manager and recreational fisher at the time of the interview.

Freddy Manny has built a career that spans two distinct yet interrelated professions: sign painting and shrimping. His journey through the shrimping industry has equipped him with a wealth of knowledge about fishing techniques and the evolution of regulations within the field. Freddy has witnessed firsthand the effects of external factors such as Navy testing on the fishing environment and the resultant variations in shrimp sizes.

Narrator Jack Hill, of Key Largo, Florida, was the owner of a fish house and a former commercial fisherman at the time of the interview. Hill's formative years were spent mastering the craft of fishing, a skill passed down through generations. As he matured, he expanded his expertise beyond the immediate scope of fishing to encompass a broader understanding of market dynamics and trade.

Mary Fund worked for the Kansas Rural Center (KRC) for most of its forty-year existence, serving as Executive Director since January 2015. She directed KRC's early water policy work, writing extensively on Kansas water issues. Among her publications are papers and monographs on water quality, quantity, and management published by the KRC and the Kansas Law Review. Fund is the editor of KRC's newsletter, Rural Papers, and also edits Policy Watch, KRC's legislative weekly update.

Tony Iorucci is a seasoned commercial fisherman with over two decades of experience in the Florida Bay area. His life has been deeply intertwined with the sea, having spent the majority of his career navigating the waters around the Florida Keys. Tony's expertise extends beyond the act of fishing itself; he possesses a profound understanding of the local marine environment, the behavior of various fish species, and the intricacies of the fishing industry.

Larry Linton is a seasoned mariner whose life and career have been inextricably linked with the maritime industry. His extensive experience encompasses various facets of marine work, including crabbing, scalloping, and operating vessels in both oceanic and bayside environments. Linton's career is marked by a profound understanding of the perils and pleasures of working on the water, shaped by years of hands-on involvement in the industry.

Bill Needelman is a professional deeply rooted in the waterfront community of Portland, Maine. He serves as the Waterfront Coordinator for the city of Portland, working within the Department of Economic Development. His role involves policy and development related to the preservation of the working waterfront and the industries that rely on it. His constituents include property owners, their tenants, and the city itself, which owns significant port-related properties and the city's fish pier.

Brandon Schroeder is an Extension Educator with the Michigan Sea Grant college program, a collaborative effort between the University of Michigan and Michigan State University. He is employed through Michigan State University Extension, which forms the other half of Michigan Sea Grant. Schroeder lives and works in Lincoln, Michigan, Alcona County, serving the northern coastal communities of northern Lake Huron. His work primarily involves fisheries, working with commercial fishermen, charter boat fishermen, and the recreational community.

Andrew Dorr is a dedicated public servant hailing from Vinalhaven, Maine, a coastal town located in the mid-coast region of Maine and Penobscot Bay. As the town manager, Dorr's responsibilities are multifaceted and extensive, varying from town to town based on the resources and staffing available. His roles include serving as the treasurer, tax collector, road commissioner, planner, and financial manager for the community. Vinalhaven is a vibrant, year-round island community with a population of approximately twelve to thirteen hundred people.

Vicki Impallomeni is a wilderness guide and charter fishing captain with a rich history of navigating the waters of the Florida Keys. Her life has been deeply intertwined with the sea, having spent countless hours steering her vessel through the intricate waterways of this unique archipelago. Impallomeni's expertise extends beyond mere navigation; she possesses an intimate knowledge of the local marine environment, acquired through years of observation and interaction with the natural elements of the region.

Annie Turek is a professional working for the Illinois Department of Natural Resources' Coastal Management Program. She is based in Chicago, Illinois, and is involved with the Illinois International Port District, also known as the Port of Chicago. Turek's work focuses on revitalizing the port and reconnecting it with the community. She is interested in creating outdoor recreation opportunities and enhancing the port's appeal to both the local community and tourists.

Adam Mistler is a dedicated professional in the field of ocean conservation, currently serving as the National Outreach Manager for Ocean Conservancy in Washington, D.C. He holds a degree in political science from Boston College and initially moved to D.C. to pursue a career in politics. His early career included an internship with Senator Bill Nelson of Florida, where he was introduced to various environmental issues, including the importance of red snapper in the Gulf of Mexico and the South Atlantic.

This narrator was in his early fifties at the time of the interview. The interviewee is an experienced commercial fisherman from a fishing family with multiple generations involved in the industry. Born and raised in Cape May, the interviewee has been fishing since a young age and learned the trade through practical experience. With a family business focused on fishing, they have been actively involved in the industry, making business decisions and handling bookkeeping responsibilities from a young age.

The interviewee is a seasoned participant in the fishing industry with a rich familial background in both fishing and farming. His roots trace back to Sweden, where he garnered initial experience in fishing before immigrating to the United States. Settling in Cape May, New Jersey, he witnessed and adapted to significant transformations within the industry, including the shift from wooden to steel vessels and the evolution of fishing techniques and gear.

The narrator is a seasoned commercial fisherman in his early 60s who actively fishes out of Barnegat Light, New Jersey. He began his fishing career before the age of 10 and already assumed the role of a mate by the time he was 14. Throughout his journey, he transitioned to become an owner/operator in the early 1970s, taking full control of his fishing operations. In pursuit of viable fishing opportunities, the narrator temporarily relocated to Florida for a period of 10 years from 1989 to 1990.

The narrator is a semi-retired individual in his mid-60s, residing in Point Pleasant, New Jersey, pursuing fishing as a lifelong endeavor.

This narrator is a 45 year old male (at the time of the interview), first-generation fisherman fishing out of Cape May, New Jersey. He was born in Philadelphia, PA, in 1960. He grew up in Wildwood, New Jersey, and moved there with his family in 1970. He comes from a family of four boys and did not have any sisters. Despite not coming from a fishing family, he developed an interest in fishing while living in Wildwood. At the age of 19, the interviewee started working on a Virginia boat as a deckhand, breaking into the fishing industry.

The interviewee is a 41-year-old individual born in Forked River, New Jersey. Coming from a fishing family, his father owned a charter boat and engaged in charter fishing in Barnegat Light, New Jersey. The interviewee has two daughters and a young son, and while the son has yet to express an interest in fishing, the interviewee is open to encouraging him if he chooses to pursue it. The narrator has been involved in commercial fishing since high school, initially working for others before purchasing his own boat in 1992.

The interviewee is a 46-year-old male fishing out of Barnegat Light, New Jersey. He started off with his father started as a charter captain, then moved into the tilefish fishery, then on into pelagic longlining (swordfish and tuna). More recently he moved into the scallop fishery

Stephen Train is a seasoned commercial fisherman hailing from Long Island, Maine, a tight-knit community deeply rooted in maritime traditions. Born into a family with a rich legacy of fishing, Train has spent the majority of his life navigating the waters of the North Atlantic, harvesting the sea's bounty. His intimate knowledge of the local marine environment, coupled with years of hands-on experience, has made him a respected figure among his peers.

James Crossen was born in Boston in 1926 and served in the Pacific Ocean during World War II. This experience helped him during the 1,200+days he was at sea during his long career. He began his career in 1955 with the U.S. Bureau of Commercial Fisheries which later became the National Marine Fisheries Service.

Born in 1926, Ray Fritz grew up in Detroit, Michigan and attended Michigan State College. He graduated in 1953 with a Bachelors in Biology and Zoology. He began his career with the Bureau of Commercial Fisheries as a biologist at the Woods Hole Lab in 1956. During his time in Woods Hole, he spent time at-sea on the R/V Albatross III and R/V Albatross IV. He served as Chief Scientist on both vessels. In the late 1960's, he moved to Headquarters in Washington where he worked with the Federal Aid Program and served as Chief of Law Enforcement for National Marine Fisheries Service. Mr.

Patricia Gerrior was born in Cambridge, Massachusetts and grew up in Weymouth, Massachusetts where she would spend time on the water with her father which led to her interest in marine science. She studied Biology at Colby College in Waterville, Maine and began her 40 year career during her junior year in college with the Bureau of Commercial Fisheries which became NOAA National Marine Fisheries Service.

Ron Goldberg was born in Boston, Massachusetts on July 2, 1952. He moved to New Jersey at the age of 11 where his love of the ocean and its' mysteries developed. He credits inspirational teachers in high school and college with cultivating his interest in marine science . He returned to Boston to study at Northeastern University. Through the University's co-op program, he worked for the EPA, the Northeastern Lab, and the Milford Laboratory. He was hired at Milford in 1975 and retired after 40 years in 2015. He now lives in Cheshire, Connecticut.

Anthony Calabrese was born in Providence, RI on February 25, 1937. Growing up, he was interested in fishing and the ocean. Dr. Calabrese earned his masters at Auburn University in Alabama, and later earned his PhD in Zoology/Ecology from the University of Connecticut. He began his career at the Milford Laboratory in 1963. His early research focused on the effects of pollution on shellfish and he brought his expertise to EPA committees he served on. He published over 70 reports and publications and founded the Flatfish Biology Conference in 1986.

Marvin Grosslein was born October 24, 1929 in Seattle. He grew up in Minnesota where a summer job with the Minnesota Conservation Department sparked his interest in fisheries science. He graduated from the University of Minnesota before attending Cornell University for his PhD. For his doctoral thesis, Dr. Grosslein developed a survey program that would provide a basis for estimating catches of all species. His graduate work took him to Woods Hole in the summer of 1959. He began full time in 1961 after completing his PhD.

David Pierce was born and raised in New Bedford, Massachusetts. Being from New Bedford, he had an interest in the ocean and the fisheries from a young age. He received his bachelors from SMU (Southeastern Massachusetts University) now University of Massachusetts Dartmouth. He also received his Master's in Marine Biology from SMU in 1982. He received his PhD from University of Massachusetts Boston in 1996. He began working for the Massachusetts Division of Marine Fisheries in 1972.

Gordon Waring was born on July 19, 1946 in Brooklyn, New York. He earned his B.A. in Biology from Humboldt State College, his Master’s from Bridgewater State College, and his Ph.D. in Fisheries and Wildlife Conservation from the University of Massachusetts, Amherst. Waring began working for NOAA in 1973 and is a retired former team leader of the seal project within the Protected Species Branch at the Northeast Fisheries Science Center.

Dr. Sheila Stiles was born in Memphis, Tennessee. As a young child she developed a love for nature which led to her focusing on science in college. She majored in biology at Xavier University, New Orleans. After graduation, she had the opportunity to work at the Milford Laboratory for the summer and was asked to stay on at the end of the summer. She was the first full time African American woman to be hired at the Lab. She credits her many mentors and her love of biology as the reason for her long, successful career. Dr.

Interview with Peter Halmay, President of the San Diego Fishermen's Working Group, diver, commercial fisherman on December 4, 2013, at Scripps Institution of Oceanography in La Jolla, California, including a special interview of Peter by Anna Talley, 2nd Grade, McKinley Elementary School on September 27, 2014.

Interview with retired San Diego commercial fisherman, John La Grange conducted on December 3, 2013 at John's home in Solana Beach, California. Dr. Paul K. Dayton, Emeritus Professor at Scripps Institution of Oceanography was the interviewer.

Joe Gatlin was interviewed for the Port of Los Angeles Centennial Oral History Project. Gatlin was born in 1945 in San Pedro, California, to parents who migrated to the area in 1941 during World War II for job opportunities in the local shipyards. Both of his parents worked as riveters at Todd Shipyard and the naval shipyard in San Pedro. The interview covers Joe Gatlin’s early memories of growing up in San Pedro, including living in the Banning Homes project and experiencing a refinery explosion nearby.

On May 28, 2008, Ronald Bruch interviewed Vern and Karla Gebhart for the People of the Sturgeon: Wisconsin's Love Affair with an Ancient Fish project. Vern Gebhart is a longtime sturgeon spearer and decoy carver from Calumet County, Wisconsin, where his family has been involved in sturgeon fishing for generations. The interview begins with Vern recounting his family's history in sturgeon fishing, starting with his grandfather, who fished before regulations were established, and continuing with his father, who began fishing in the late 1930s and 1940s.

Mary Francesca Giacalone was interviewed for the Port of Los Angeles Centennial Oral History Project. Mary Francesca Giacalone was born on August 6, 1922, in San Pedro, California, into a family with deep ties to the local fishing industry. The interview begins with Mary describing her father’s journey from Italy to the United States in 1906, where he initially worked as a crab fisherman in San Francisco and Alaska. She recounts a harrowing story of her father’s boat being trapped in an iceberg for forty days while fishing in Alaska.

Dick Koerner interviewed Dan Gerhardt for the People of the Sturgeon: Wisconsin's Love Affair with an Ancient Fish project. Dan Gerhardt was born in Neenah, Wisconsin, in 1940 and has fished in Lake Winnebago for most of his life, moving to Pine River, Wisconsin, around 1995-1996. The interview begins with Dan recounting his early interest in sturgeon spearing, which started when his father took him out on the lake in the late 1940s and early 1950s. He recalls spending time in the shanties of seasoned spearers like Frank Besson Stein, Freddie Whitburn, and Woody Rabideau.

Ronald Bruch interviewed Dan Groeschel for the People of the Sturgeon: Wisconsin's Love Affair with an Ancient Fish project. Dan Groeschel, born in 1941, has been deeply involved in sturgeon spearing for nearly his entire life. He is a founding member and director of Sturgeon for Tomorrow, an organization dedicated to the conservation and propagation of sturgeon. The interview begins with Groeschel discussing his family's tradition of sturgeon spearing, which began with his father and involved his grandmother on his mother's side.

William Gravett was interviewed for the Port of Los Angeles Centennial Oral History Project. William Gravett, born on December 23, 1937, in Little Rock, Arkansas, moved to San Pedro, California, in 1942 with his family. His father worked at Todd Shipyard as a pipe fitter and at Regan Forge & Engineering Company as a foreman. The interview begins with Gravett recounting his early memories of moving to San Pedro during World War II. He describes the vibrant community of Channel Heights, a multiracial neighborhood where he spent his childhood.

On May 15, 1997, Nancy Solomon interviewed Wayne Grothe for the Peconic Estuary Interviews project. Wayne Grothe is an experienced shellfisherman with over 24 years of work in the field. Wayne has primarily worked on the south shore, specifically in areas like Shinnecock Bay. He is resident of Southampton and was an active commercial fisherman until around 2001 when he transitioned to working for the Nature Conservancy of Long Island. With his experience and expertise, Wayne became a keen observer of the ecological changes occurring in the Peconics and the South Shore regions.

George Durward Griffith was interviewed for the Port of Los Angeles Centennial Oral History Project. George Griffith was born on May 9, 1921, in Kansas City, Missouri. Due to severe allergies, his family moved to California, where he developed a deep love for the ocean and sailing. The interview begins with Griffith discussing his early years in Anaheim, California, where he grew up on an orange grove. He recalls his initial interest in the ocean, which began with building and using a small flat iron skiff, and later expanded into sailing.

Dr. Jeff Govoni's was born in Wareham, Massachusetts, and spent his formative years in the Village of Buzzards Bay, fostering a deep fascination with the local plants and animals. He pursued a Bachelor's Degree in Biology at St. Anselm College in Manchester, New Hampshire, which he successfully completed in 1970. Following his graduation, he joined the Massachusetts National Guard. In the years that followed, from 1972 to 1974, Jeff worked with a consulting firm, focusing on describing the distribution of fish eggs and larvae in Narragansett Bay.

John Guest was interviewed for the Port of Los Angeles Centennial Oral History Project. John Guest, a retired U.S. Coast Guard captain, was born in San Pedro, California, in 1926. Although he did not grow up in San Pedro, he returned to the area after getting married in 1955 and made a significant career with the Coast Guard in the Los Angeles Harbor area. The interview begins with Guest recounting his early years and the reason his family moved back to San Pedro.

Dick Koerner interviewed Ed Gorchals for the People of the Sturgeon: Wisconsin's Love Affair with an Ancient Fish project. Ed Gorchals was born on October 1, 1928, in Kaukauna, Wisconsin, and has lived in Larsen, Wisconsin, for many years, where he resides close to the lake with a channel at the back of his house. The interview begins with Gorchals recounting his early interest in sturgeon spearing, influenced by friends and the teachings of John Jorgensen’s father, who was instrumental in introducing Gorchals to the sport.

Michael Kline interviewed Ella Wanda Edwards, also known as Teenie, for the Steamboat Era Museum Oral History Project. Born on September 26, 1920, on Gwynn's Island, Virginia, Ella Wanda Edwards grew up in a family of thirteen children, enjoying a close-knit community filled with honest, upright people. The interview begins with Edwards sharing her childhood memories and the origins of her nickname, Teenie. She fondly recalls the trust and camaraderie among the island's residents, including a valued worker named Bozo, who was integral to the community despite his fear of water.

Dr. Ed Flentje, Professor Emeritus at the Hugo Wall School of Public Affairs at Wichita State University, served as Director of that School from 1999 to 2008. Flentje has a long career as both an academic and practitioner of public affairs. From 1975-1979, Flentje was a member of Governor Robert Bennett’s Cabinet and Director of State Planning and Research. During his tenure as Director of State Planning, he served on the Governor’s Task Force on Water Resources which met for two years and published its final report in 1978.

In 2007, Dan Warncke was a Natural Resources Officer and seasoned shellfisherman in Bourne, Massachusetts. His life and career have been inextricably linked to the waters and the shellfishing industry that defines much of the region's economic and cultural landscape. With years of hands-on experience, Warncke has witnessed the ebb and flow of the industry, adapting to the changes and challenges that have come with time.

Luther Eldredge is a seasoned shellfisher whose roots in the trade extend deep into the maritime heritage of Cape Cod. Having been introduced to shellfishing at a tender age by his grandfather, Eldredge has not only witnessed but also actively participated in the evolution of the industry throughout his life. In 2007, Luther Eldredge was harvesting commercially from the wild fisheries and growing oysters on an aquaculture grant that was originally his grandfather's.

In 2007, Henry Lind was the Director of the Natural Resources Department in the town of Eastham and a distinguished figure in the field of environmental conservation, with a particular focus on urban ecosystems. Born and raised in a bustling city environment, Lind's passion for nature was sparked by the green spaces that served as urban oases amidst the concrete landscape. His academic pursuits in environmental science led to a career dedicated to the development and management of urban parks and wildlife reserves.

David Slack is a shellfisher on Cape Cod, a region known for its robust shellfishing industry. His career trajectory took a significant turn when he transitioned from a conventional desk job to the more hands-on and physically demanding practice of shellfishing. This change not only reflects a personal choice but also underscores a broader narrative of individuals seeking livelihoods connected to their community and environment.

In 2007, Bob Wallace was a shellfish grower in the town of Wellfleet.  He has been an integral figure in the local shellfishing industry. His life's work has centered on the cultivation and harvesting of shellfish, a trade that has sustained his family for generations. Wallace's expertise in shellfishing is not only a testament to his personal dedication but also serves as a living connection to the region's maritime heritage. Over the years, he has witnessed the ebb and flow of the industry, adapting to the changing tides of environmental, economic, and regulatory landscapes.

In 2007, Bob Bryson was a seasoned shellfish grower with deep roots in the coastal community of Barnstable Harbor, Cape Cod. His life and work are inextricably linked to the ebb and flow of the tides that shape the shores and livelihoods of those who call this place home. Born into a family with a rich legacy in shellfishing, Bryson has spent decades nurturing the beds that yield clams, oysters, and other bivalves, ensuring that the tradition of shellfishing is not only preserved but also thrives for future generations.

Heinz Proft serves as a Natural Resources Officer and Biologist in Harwich, a role that places him at the intersection of environmental management and community engagement. His career is marked by a commitment to the stewardship of marine resources, particularly shellfish, which are integral to the local economy and ecosystem. Proft's work encompasses a range of responsibilities, from overseeing shellfish populations to implementing regulations that ensure sustainable harvesting practices.

On April 16, 2024, Maeve Sheehan interviewed Pamela Price for the NOAA Oral History Archive. Pamela Price, an environmental educator, grew up in Buffalo, New York, and currently resides in the Hudson Valley, New York. Her passion for nature was fostered by her parents, who frequently took her camping and encouraged her interest in birds and environmental science. She holds a bachelor's degree in wildlife biology and a master's degree in education with a focus on environmental education.

Debbie Frazier Halcomb, a native of Cody, Kentucky, was born into a family that owned and operated a small grocery store and garage in the area now known as Carr Creek Lake. Her father, Gid Frazier, hailed from Hot Spot, Kentucky (now known as Premium), while her mother, Alma Frazier, was from Vicco, Kentucky. The family moved to Cody when Debbie was six years old, a decision influenced by her impending school years. She attended Carr Creek Elementary School, starting in 1962.

Anne Amburgey Wagner is a retired schoolteacher who dedicated over twenty-eight years of her life to educating elementary grade students. Born in Hazard, Kentucky, she spent her early years in a small community known as Smithboro in Knott County. Her childhood was spent in a holler, a small valley between mountains, until she was fifteen when her family relocated to London, Kentucky. Her family consisted of her parents, Dorothy Blair Amburgey and Tandy Amburgey, and her three brothers, Don, Anthony, and Gary Kevin.

Cordelia Collins Schaber is a native of Letcher County, Kentucky, who currently resides in Cold Spring, Kentucky. Born into a family with deep roots in the region, her father, Ray Collins, was an Old Regular Baptist preacher, and her mother, Estelle Collins, was also a Collins before marriage. Cordelia's family history in the area traces back to her great-great-grandfather, who built the home where multiple generations of her family, including her mother and herself, were born.

In 2007, Morris was the shellfish warden for the Town of Yarmouth and has established himself as a prominent figure in the field of natural resource management, particularly within the context of marine environments. His career trajectory has been marked by a series of progressive roles that have seen him evolve from a hands-on practitioner to a strategic leader in the conservation and sustainable use of shellfish resources. Johnson has gained a reputation for his innovative approaches to enhancing shellfish populations.

In 2007, Mike was a seasoned commercial shellfish harvester in Chatham. Born into a family with a rich maritime heritage, Anderson developed an affinity for the ocean at a young age. He honed his skills in shellfishing through years of hands-on experience, navigating the intricate waterways and understanding the rhythms of the tides that influence the shellfish populations.

In 2007, Pat and Barbara Woodbury were shellfish growers in the town of Wellfleet, who are deeply embedded in the shellfishing industry of Cape Cod. As shellfish growers, they have dedicated themselves to the cultivation and harvesting of shellfish, a practice that not only supports their livelihood but also contributes significantly to the local economy and cultural fabric of the region.

Tony Jackett is a former commercial fisherman who transitioned into the role of a shellfish officer. In 2007, Tony Jackett was the Shellfish Constable for the towns of Truro and Provincetown on Cape Cod, Massachusetts. His career has been marked by a dedication to the management and preservation of shellfish resources in the towns of Provincetown and Truro. Jackett's work involves navigating the complexities of regulatory changes and advocating for sustainable practices within the shellfish industry.

Michael Fogarty was born in 1951 in Fairbanks, Alaska where his father was stationed in the Army during the Korean War. His parents returned to their native Rhode Island when he was six years old. He developed an interest in marine science which led to him pursing his undergraduate and graduate degrees at the University of Rhode Island. Dr. Fogarty studied marine biology and earned his PhD degree at the URI School of Oceanography. Upon graduation, he began working at the Rhode Island Department of Environment Management with a focus on the lobster and crab fisheries.

Linda Despres was born in Brunswick, Maine and grew up on her father’s boat with her brothers learning about tuna fishing and how to navigate the sea. This ignited a passion for marine wildlife as well as being outdoors exploring nature. She graduated from the University of Maine with a degree in zoology with a minor in wildlife biology. She began working at the Northeast Fisheries Science Center in 1973.  She logged over 1,200 days at sea on the Albatross IV as well as many days at sea on foreign fleet vessels.

Jonathan (Jon) Hare was born and raised in upstate New York. He completed his graduate work at SUNY Stony Brook. His dissertation focused on bluefish (Pomatomus saltatrix). He completed his post-doctoral work at the NMFS lab in Beaufort, North Carolina working on recruitment dynamics of several species. After seven years, he moved to the Narragansett Lab in 2005 where he became head of the Oceanography Program, a position he still holds as of this interview.

Michael Sissenwine was born in 1947. He earned his B.S. in Physics and Mathematics at the University of Massachusetts Amherst, and his M.S. in Oceanography at the University of Rhode Island. He began working as a scientist at the Northeast Fisheries Science Center at Woods Hole in 1975, eventually rising to the position of Center Director at the Woods Hole lab and later, Director of Scientific Programs and Chief Science Advisor at NOAA Fisheries.

Kenneth Sherman was born on October 6, 1932 and was raised in Boston, Massachusetts.In his early years, he would spend time with his father at the local Boston Fish Pier to observe the fishermen. He graduated from Suffolk University with the idea of attending law school. A mentor guided him towards biological sciences so he applied to the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution. He taught in western Massachusetts for the Audubon Society before he began his career at the Bureau of Commercial Fisheries in 1956.

Bill Kruse and Tom Santilena are two notable members of the Cordell Expeditions who participated in the historic dives on Cordell Bank in the early 1980s. Bill Kruse, born in Palo Alto, California, followed in his father's footsteps to become an electrical engineer, designing hardware for microwave testing. His involvement with Cordell Expeditions marked a significant transition in his career, shifting from hardware to computer work and computer mapping. His interests extended beyond diving to include underwater photography and exploration projects related to diving.

Don Dvorak, a native of Hawaii, has a background that includes service in the Navy and a career in electronics. His professional journey eventually led him to marine technology. Don's interest in underwater photography and the marine field has been a significant aspect of his career. Elaine Dvorak, originally from Washington, D.C., relocated to California, where she became engaged in sailing and commercial fishing. Her involvement with Cordell Expeditions was multifaceted, including navigation, provisioning, cooking, and specimen sorting and preservation.