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.

Scientific research of California's coast began in the mid 1800's as noted geographer George Davidson and a corps of federal surveyors mapped the coastline of the new state. Cordell Bank was discovered as a shallow shoal by Davidson, but remained a mystery until the1970's when Dr Robert Schmieder, an interested individual, discovered its few relatively shallow contours on a NOAA chart. As a trained scientist by day and an avid recreational diver by weekend, Dr. Schmieder proceeded to find out what was known about Cordell Bank. He found that almost nothing was known about it.

Scientific research of California's coast began in the mid 1800's as noted geographer George Davidson and a corps of federal surveyors mapped the coastline of the new state. Cordell Bank was discovered as a shallow shoal by Davidson, but remained a mystery until the1970's when Dr Robert Schmieder, an interested individual, discovered its few relatively shallow contours on a NOAA chart. As a trained scientist by day and an avid recreational diver by weekend, Dr. Schmieder proceeded to find out what was known about Cordell Bank. He found that almost nothing was known about it.

Andrew Rosenberg is a seasoned professional in the field of fisheries management and science. He began his career in the Fisheries Service in 1990 as a science advisor, where he was responsible for presenting scientific advice from the Fisheries Science Center in Woods Hole to the council at every meeting. His role also involved responding to questions and clarifying scientific concepts related to fisheries management.

Candelario Gonzales was interviewed for the Port of Los Angeles Centennial Oral History Project. Candelario Gonzales, born on February 2, 1906, in Zacatecas, Mexico, immigrated to the United States with his family in 1920. His family settled in San Pedro, California, after initially arriving in Nogales, Arizona. The interview begins with Gonzales recounting his early life in Mexico and his family's reasons for immigrating to the United States. After his father passed away when Gonzales was three years old, his family faced economic hardships.

Vito Giacalone was interviewed for the Port of Los Angeles Centennial Oral History Project. Vito Giacalone was born in 1922 in San Diego, California, into a family deeply involved in the fishing industry. His father, originally from Palermo, Sicily, was a pioneer in the tuna fishing industry in the United States. The interview begins with Giacalone recounting his father's journey from Sicily to San Diego in 1914 and his subsequent career as a fisherman. Giacalone shares memories of his childhood, including a vivid story from when he was seven years old and first visited San Pedro.

Michael Godward was interviewed for the Port of Los Angeles Centennial Oral History Project. Michael Godward was born in 1947 in downtown Los Angeles and is a third-generation Los Angelino. He embarked on a career in law enforcement after initially working as a machinist apprentice and later as an air crewman in the Navy reserves. The interview begins with Godward describing his early life and education. He attended elementary school in Los Angeles before his family moved to Covina, California, where he completed high school.

Dr. Richard McBride earned his bachelor’s degree in biology from Eckerd College, his Master’s in Oceanography from Stonybrook University, and his Ph.D. in Ecology and Evolution from Rutgers University. He worked at the Florida Marine Research Institute beginning in 1994. In 2006, he joined the Northeast Fisheries Science Center at Woods Hole where, as of this interview in 2016, he currently works as the Chief of the Population Biology Branch.

Roland Wigley was born in 1923 in New Jersey. He studied at the University of Maine at Orono, where his college career was interrupted by World War II. He served in the Army Air Corps during the war. He returned to the University of Maine after the war and received his PhD from Cornell University, where he did a dissertation on the life history of the sea lamprey of Cayuga Lake. He began working for the U.S. Bureau of Commercial Fisheries as student in 1949 and was hired in a permanent capacity in 1954. His first research project was the haddock food study.

Gary Wikfors was born in Weehawken, NJ. After receiving his B.S. in biology at the University of Maine, Wikfors became interested in phycology. He began working at the Milford Laboratory in 1976 while earning his Master's at the University of Bridgeport. He later earned his PhD at the University of Connecticut while continuing to work at the lab. He is now the Branch Chief of the Aquaculture Sustainability Assessment Branch at the Milford Lab.

Gary Shepherd is a research fishery biologist with the Coastal Pelagic Resources Task in the Population Dynamics Branch of the Northeast Fisheries Science Center. He started working for NMFS as a summer student aide in 1975 as a college freshman at UMass Dartmouth and did work-study in the Age and Growth Unit during his senior year. He went to Rutgers for graduate school where he conducted research on weakfish and striped bass populations.

On May 8, 1987, Nancy Solomon interviewed Tony Sougstad as part of the Long Island Traditions Oral History Project. Sougstad is a seasoned ocean fisherman and captain of the boat E.T. His first discussion with Solomon covers his entry into the fishing industry, the species of fish he harvests, the gear he uses, and the seasonal nature of his profession. After working as an engineer for a time, Sougstad decided to make a living out on the water, specializing in trawl or bottom fishing.

Mike Mitchell, a fisherman based in San Francisco, embarked on his maritime career at a young age. With a passion for the sea, he acquired his own vessel to pursue a livelihood in the fishing industry. His catch spanned a diverse array of marine life, including salmon, herring, crabs, and halibut. Mitchell's involvement in the Alternative Gear Program showcased his commitment to sustainable fishing practices by reducing bycatch.

Tom Genochio is a seasoned fisherman with a career spanning over five decades. Born into a family with a fishing heritage, Genochio followed in his father's footsteps, embarking on a journey through the diverse sectors of the fishing industry. His early years were marked by salmon and albacore fishing, which later transitioned to crab and groundfish. Eventually, he settled into halibut trawling, finding a consistent rhythm in this particular fishery.

Nicola Ingargiola, born into a lineage of fishermen, embarked on his maritime journey at the tender age of twelve in Sicily. His pursuit of the fishing vocation led him to relocate to San Francisco in 1972, where he continued to engage in the trade. Over the years, Ingargiola ascended to the role of owner and captain of the fishing vessel Anna Marie, specializing in the capture of California Halibut. His tenure in the industry has allowed him to witness a myriad of transformations, including the escalation of competition and the imposition of stringent regulations.

Kevin Anderson is a marine biologist with a rich family history in fishing and farming. His passion for marine biology was inspired by his grandmother, who had a deep love for the ocean. Anderson attended community college for two years before transferring to the University of Rhode Island (URI) to complete his degree in marine biology. After graduation, he was eager to join the workforce and obtained his scuba certificate alongside his diploma. Anderson began his career in Alabama, working for Dauphin Island Sea Lab on fisheries independent surveys.

On March 24, 2006, Bill Casper interviewed Irene and Greg Halfmann for the People of the Sturgeon: Wisconsin's Love Affair with an Ancient Fish project. Irene, known as the "big fisherman," and her husband, Greg, are long-time residents and avid sturgeon spearers from Calumetville, Wisconsin. The interview begins with Irene recounting her memorable catch of a 92-pound sturgeon. She describes the experience of moving their shanty at night and setting up for a morning of fishing. Irene details the patience required, waiting for hours before a sturgeon came into view.

Janice Hahn was interviewed for the Port of Los Angeles Centennial Oral History Project. Janice Hahn, born in 1952 in downtown Los Angeles, is a long-time resident and public figure with deep ties to the Port of Los Angeles through her family and political career. The interview begins with Hahn reminiscing about her childhood visits to the port with her Navy veteran father. She recalls family outings to see Navy ships, dining at local restaurants like Olsen's, and taking car ferries across the bay before the Vincent Thomas Bridge was built.

On December 12, 2023, Sarah Weeks interviewed Brian Hockstrasser for the Accompanied At Sea: Voices from the Northeast Fisheries Observer Program project. Hockstrasser, who grew up in Stony Brook, New York, has always been passionate about the marine world. The interview begins with Hockstrasser recounting his early experiences around water, including maintaining a saltwater fish tank with his brother using locally caught marine species. His first job at 15 was at a nature center, where he conducted environmental tours and worked on shellfish restoration projects.

Corky Hire may have had an inauspicious beginning to his shrimping career, taking over for his ailing father, but now 70 years later, his memories of working the Gulf are almost all fond ones. His time on boats, through the 30's and 40's, was during a time when Biloxi's seafood industry was growing tremendously and ail schooners were being replaced by powered boats, and Croatian families were making the shift from immigrant laborers to cannery owners and professionals.

Georgo Trojanovich is, as he says, "The only real Croatian in Biloxi." But in a city as proud as this one is of its Croatian heritage, everyone here knows what he means: with the arrival of Croatian families tailing off by the second half of the 20th century, Georgo is one of the few - yes, perhaps only - Croatian-born immigrants in town. A distant relative of a local restaurateur, Georgo came as a teenager to escape Tito's Communist regime, working as a dishwasher at Mary Mahoney's restaurant.

When Leroy Duvall refers to himself as one of the younger people, it's despite his 64 years, but it's without a trace of irony. Part of it is that he is the President of the Fleur de Lis Society, a club half the size of what it once was because its membership is slowly passing from old age. And part of it is that, after 30 years of shrimping on the Gulf, his body still feels young. Eventually, the economic repercussions of endangered turtles forced him to retire from shrimping, and when Hurricane Katrina washed away his bakery, he retired from that, too. Mr.

In this 2020 oral history interview, former State Representative Carl Holmes discusses his observations of state water policy formulation in the 1970's through 2012. Holmes began his involvement in water policy as a farmer and active member of his community in southwest Kansas. In many respects, his experiences reflect the water-energy nexus. Holmes describes how he had observed cities and irrigators mining water in southwest Kansas. He recalls developing a comprehensive understanding of water issues by interviewing the managers of the state’s water resources.

From the early 1980s until 2007, Jim Haines was in executive management of Kansas Gas & Electric, Western Resources, and Westar Energy with a break when he was an executive at El Paso Electric Company in Texas. Prior to his career in Kansas, Jim was involved in utility regulation with the Missouri Public Service Commission in the mid- to late 1970s. Jim was born and raised in Jackson, Michigan where he began his post-secondary education at the Jackson Community College. He earned degrees from the University of Missouri Columbia in English Literature and Law.

John McDonald, a native of Cortez, Florida, has a rich history rooted in the local fishing industry. Born into a family of fishermen, McDonald learned the trade from his father, spending his formative years on the waters around Mullet Key. His upbringing in Cortez was marked by a close connection to the sea and the community's maritime traditions. Seeking to broaden his horizons, McDonald enlisted in the Navy, where he acquired technical education and embraced the opportunity to travel.

Mike Dealy is a graduate of Wichita State and Fort Hays State universities. He is a professional geologist licensed to practice in Kansas. Mike began his career in groundwater management in 1979 as staff hydrologist for the Southwest Kansas Groundwater Management District No. 3 in Garden City. From 1984 to 2006, he served as Manager of the Equus Beds Groundwater Management District No. 2 in Halstead. Mike was the Manager of the Wichita Well Sample Library of the Kansas Geological Survey from 2006 to 2021.

This interview Ken Jenkins was conducted as part of the Cortez Village Voices from the Fisheries Project. This project is a collection of oral histories of Cortez, Florida community members who are involved in maritime activities (such as commercial fishermen, recreational fishermen, crew members, and fish house workers) in order to document the changing face of Cortez Village's marine environment.

Jay Burnett was born in 1948 in Springfield, Massachusetts. He earned his bachelor’s degree in English from Boston University, and his bachelor’s degree in Fisheries as well as his master’s degree at the University of Massachusetts Amherst. He spent his career in the Age and Growth Unit, ten years as the head. He participated in many survey cruises throughout the years. Mr. Burnett retired from the Northeast Fisheries Science Center in 2010.

Jason Link is Senior Scientist for Ecosystem-based Management for the National Marine Fisheries Service, still sitting at the Northeast Fisheries Science Center in Woods Hole. Dr. Link earned his B.S. in Biology with a minor in Chemistry from Central Michigan University. He then received his Ph.D. from Michigan Technological University. He began his career with NOAA NMFS at the Pascagoula Lab before moving to the Woods Hole Lab.

Paul Rago is a National Marine Fisheries Service biologist. He was born in 1952 in Pittsburg, Pennsylvania and later studied at University of Michigan as well as Colorado State University where he received his master’s degree. Later, he earned his Ph.D. and dedicated much of his life to fishery science.

Interview contains discussions of: power plants, striped bass, preservation of fish species in the Great Lakes, nuclear energy, fishing yield.

Paul Rago's interview reviews his career path and his work.

Dr. Anne Richards was born the youngest of five children in Morristown, NJ on June 26, 1952 to parents from Ohio. She moved around a lot growing up and fell in love with New England when she lived here for a short time. Anne intentionally came back to New England to attend Colby College and studied marine Science and became interested in animal behavior. She attended the University of Rhode Island focusing on behavioral and ecological communities of fish in the Zoology department.

Edwin Rhodes was born in Milford, Connecticut on March 4, 1943. During high school, he visited the Milford Lab to ask about a science project. He met Victor Loosanoff, the Lab Director, who became a mentor. Ed began working at the lab in 1959 as a high school junior and continued to work there until about 1970. After a brief break, he returned to the lab from 1971 to 1989. He rejoined NOAA as the Aquaculture Coordinator from 1997 to 2001. He has spent his entire career, both in the public and private sectors, working on aquaculture and shellfish. 

Jerry Prezioso was born on February 27, 1949 in Brooklyn, New York. He received his undergraduate degree from Northeastern University and his master‟s from the University of Rhode Island's Graduate School of Oceanography. Jerry began working at the NOAA Laboratory in Narragansett, Rhode Island in 1974 and continues to work there as an oceanographer to this day. 

Thomas "Dusty" Welch (1920-2012) was raised in Venedig, a region known for its oyster industry, which played a significant role in the local economy and culture. His early life was deeply intertwined with the rhythms of the coastal environment, where the community's livelihood was largely dependent on the fruits of the sea. Welch's family background was steeped in the traditions of fishing, crabbing, and oystering, which were common occupations in the area. These activities not only provided sustenance and income but also shaped the social fabric of Venedig.

They paid the shuckers and the employees with scrip. Of course, the only place they could spend the scrip was in the store.

Frank and Marian Borek are a married couple who have dedicated a significant portion of their lives to the conservation and management of natural resources in the Town of Brewster. Frank, with a background in education, spent years imparting knowledge as a teacher before taking on the role of a Herring Warden. His passion for teaching is matched by his love for cooking, a hobby that he relishes in his personal life. Marian, alongside Frank, has been an integral part of the herring management efforts in Brewster.

Henry Lind began working for the Town of Eastham in Barnstable County in 1971 as a shellfish warden and conservation agent. Born in the mid-20th century, Lind's early life was shaped by a profound appreciation for the natural world, which led him to pursue a career in environmental management. After completing his education, with a focus on marine biology and environmental science, he joined the Town of Eastham's Natural Resources Department in 1971.

Since 1972, Doug Kalweit has worked for the Town of Barnstable and is now the Supervisor of the Barnstable Natural Resources Department. In these roles, he has been at the forefront of local conservation efforts, particularly in the realm of aquatic life management. His expertise encompasses a broad range of environmental disciplines, but he is especially known for his work with anadromous fish species, such as river herring.

Frank Mirarchi, a seasoned veteran in the fishing industry, began his career in 1962. Over the decades, he has witnessed a multitude of changes within the industry, including significant collapses in the 1990s. Mirarchi has been an active participant in the management efforts to control fishing mortality, primarily through the implementation of 'days at sea' regulations. These regulations, however, have not been without their challenges and inefficiencies, which Mirarchi has experienced firsthand.

Susan Playfair, Scituate, Massachusetts, is an author and researcher with a deep interest in environmental and marine issues. She wrote a book on the faith of New England fisheries Vanishing Species and has dedicated a significant portion of her career to exploring the complexities of the fishing industry and its ecological impact. Playfair holds a degree in biology, which has provided her with a strong foundation for understanding the scientific aspects of marine ecosystems and the human activities that affect them.

Stephen Barndollar is a seasoned professional in the seafood processing industry, with a notable tenure at Seatrade International during the 1990s. His career is marked by his involvement with the company's strategic shift in response to the evolving landscape of the fishing industry. Barndollar's expertise lies in navigating the complexities of seafood processing, particularly with underutilized species such as dogfish and monkfish.

Karen Bell is deeply rooted in the Cortez community, where she stands at the helm of A.P. Bell Fish Company, a family business with a rich history in the fishing industry. After attending college, she returned to lead the family enterprise. Bell's journey includes the acquisition of a restaurant, an endeavor that brought its own set of challenges, particularly in the wake of a net ban that affected sales.

Roger Salisbury is a seasoned commercial fisherman with nearly five decades of experience in the waters of Half Moon Bay, California. His journey into the fishing industry began post-graduation with a degree in mechanical engineering when he faced challenges securing employment in his field. This led him to purchase a small skiff and, subsequently, a commercial fishing license in 1971. Over the years, Salisbury has dedicated over 40 years to fishing for California Halibut, evolving his methods from gillnets to trammel nets and trawling.

Giuseppe Pennisi, a resident of San Francisco, is a seasoned fisherman with deep familial ties to the fishing industry. His lineage in the profession can be traced back to his grandfather, who was adept in the use of Paranzella nets for the capture of halibut and flatfish. Pennisi's formative years were spent on fishing boats, where he gained firsthand experience in the trade. Over the years, he has observed a transformation within the fishing sector, marked by a downturn in local fish processing businesses.

Kyle Pemberton is a fisherman from Half Moon Bay, California, with a history of fishing that traces back to his early years spent with his father. Pemberton's career in fishing has seen him progress from an apprentice on the waters to the owner of his own fishing vessel. His professional activities span a range of fisheries, including those for Dungeness crab, California salmon, California halibut, and West Coast groundfish. Pemberton's expertise in trawling was honed through a process of trial and error, supplemented by insights and assistance from fellow local fishermen.

Ian Roberts is a seasoned fisherman based in Crescent City, California, with a lineage rooted in the fishing industry. His initiation into fishing traces back to his early years, influenced by his father's profession. Throughout his career, Roberts has engaged in a diverse array of fisheries, including crab, salmon, pink shrimp, bottom trawl, herring, and Dungeness crab. Notably, his fishing ventures are a family affair, with his son accompanying him in the trade.

Born into a lineage of fishermen, Kenny Reinertsen has spent a lifetime navigating the waters in pursuit of California Halibut. His career, deeply rooted in tradition, has been a testament to the enduring nature of the fishing industry. Reinertsen's journey has been marked by a series of adaptations to the ever-changing conditions of the sea and the fishery. He has developed a keen sense for the influence of weather on fishing outcomes and has honed his skills in utilizing various gear and tactics to optimize his catch.

Rick Risso, a resident of Santa Cruz, California, embarked on his career in fishing during his youth. With nearly two decades of experience, he has become a seasoned participant in the California Halibut Trawl Fishery. His professional pursuits primarily involve the capture of halibut and Dungeness crab. Risso's workday commences at the early hour of 3 am, followed by a lengthy journey to the fishing grounds and culminates with the delivery of his catch to a fish buyer.

John Campbell, a resident of Cortez, Florida, has spent his life engaged in the profession of fishing, a trade that runs deep in his family lineage. His career on the water is not only a testament to his personal dedication but also serves as a living history of the fishing industry's evolution. Prior to his full immersion into fishing, Campbell served in the Army, an experience that stands as a distinct chapter in his life.

This interview with J.B. Crawford was conducted as part of the Cortez Village Voices from the Fisheries Project. This project is a collection of oral histories of Cortez, Florida community members who are involved in maritime activities (such as commercial fishermen, recreational fishermen, crew members, and fish house workers) in order to document the changing face of Cortez Village's marine environment.

Art Barton, long-time resident of Key West, Florida, a fishing guide with a deep-rooted history and connection to the area. His first visit to the region was around 1962 or 1963, and he became a regular visitor thereafter. In 1972, after retiring, he decided to make Key West his permanent home, initially living there only during the winter months. By 1978, he had transitioned to living in Key West year-round and has remained there ever since. Barton is deeply involved in the local fishing industry, both as a hobby and a profession.

Robert Young hails from Hindman, Kentucky, a small town nestled in the Appalachian region known for its rich cultural heritage and historical significance. Born into a family with deep roots in the area, Young's lineage is intertwined with the history of the region, with ancestors who have played pivotal roles in the community's development. Despite facing the personal challenge of dyslexia, Young's upbringing was marked by a strong connection to his family's past and the traditions of his hometown.

Charles Feller Frazier, better known as Feller, is a native of Cody, Kentucky, born in New York City while his parents were working there. His family moved back to Kentucky, where they started their business, and Feller has lived there ever since. His father's family originally hailed from Letcher County, Kentucky, from a community called Hot Spot, while his mother's family was from Jackson County, Kentucky, near Annville. Feller's parents met in Vicco, Kentucky, and after working on the road for a while, they returned home to start their business.

Bill Wickers is a lifelong resident of the Keys, having spent 46 years in the area. He has been a charter boat captain for approximately 24 years, a profession he took up after a four-year stint as a school teacher. Even during his teaching years, Wickers was involved in charter fishing, often spending his weekends and vacations on the water. His experience on the water is extensive, with an average of five to six days a week spent on the water over the years.

Billy Deans, a long-time resident of the Florida Keys, has been living in the area since December 1968. He moved to the region when he was in the ninth grade. Deans has always been drawn to the water, a fascination that began when he first crossed the Seven Mile Bridge and was captivated by the clarity of the water. He initially lived on Stock Island from 1968 to 1980, after which he moved to Sugarloaf, where he has resided since. Deans is a University of Florida graduate with a degree in Chemistry.

On September 30, 2019, Molly Graham interviewed Mayor Sefatia Romeo Theken for the Strengthening Community Resilience in America’s Oldest Seaport Oral History Project. Sefatia Romeo Theken's grandparents immigrated to Gloucester in the 1940s.  Many of her relatives worked in the fishing industry in Gloucester.  Mayor Romeo Theken was married to a commercial fisherman and worked as a fish packer at Gorton's and later for the Addison Gilbert Hospital.  After her husband died, she began to get more involved in the Gloucester community and advocating for fishers.

Molly Graham interviewed Captain Salvatore ‘Sam’ Novello on August 2, 2019, for the Strengthening Community Resilience in America’s Oldest Seaport Oral History Project. Captain Novello was born in 1943 in Gloucester, Massachusetts, where he has lived all his life.

On August 23, 2019, Molly Graham interviewed Vito Giacalone for the Strengthening Community Resilience in America’s Oldest Seaport oral history project. Giacalone was born in Gloucester, Massachusetts, in 1959.  Vito is a third-generation fisherman in Gloucester and started in the fishing industry as a youth.  In the late 1980s, Giacalone took a break from fishing to work in construction until he came back to commercial fishing in 2000.

On March 7, 2022, Joseph Smith interviewed Dr. Aleta Hohn for the NOAA Beaufort Lab Oral Histories project. Dr. Aleta Hohn was raised in Maryland.  She received her Bachelor’s and Graduate degrees in the 1970s from the University of Maryland at College Park, the latter under Dr. Eugenie Clark. While at College Park she volunteered at the Smithsonian and worked for Dr. Jim Meade, where she gained her love for marine mammals.

On December 29, 2006, Eugene Herubin interviewed Reuben Hoelzel for the People of the Sturgeon: Wisconsin's Love Affair with an Ancient Fish project. Reuben Hoelzel, born in 1916, was the eldest of eight siblings. He grew up helping out on the family's farm, including milking cows, tending to crops, and maintaining the land. Hoelzel provides a detailed account of his early life, including his introduction to sturgeon spearing at the age of sixteen.

On October 9, 2019, Molly Graham interviewed Tom Balf for the Strengthening Community Resilience in America’s Oldest Seaport oral history project. Tom Balf is an environmental professional with diverse experience in regulatory policy, environmental management, and sustainability in the corporate, consulting, and non-profit sectors. His current consulting work, as founder of Oceanvest, LLC, focuses on projects that support sustainable fishing communities, maritime technology applications, and 21st-century working waterfronts. He is the former executive director of Maritime Gloucester.

Frank Herrara was interviewed for the Port of Los Angeles Centennial Oral History Project. Born on February 17, 1925, in Sonora, Mexico, Herrara moved to the Harbor area of Los Angeles after being discharged from the Army at Fort MacArthur in 1946. He joined his family, who had relocated to Wilmington, California, where his father worked at Todd Shipyard. In the interview. Herrara provides a detailed account of his life and experiences, beginning with his early years in Mexico and his family’s move to the United States.

On March 13, 2023, Joseph Smith interviewed William (Bill) Hettler for the NOAA Beaufort Lab Oral Histories project in Morehead City, North Carolina. Mr. Bill Hettler was born in Chicago and raised in San Antonio, Texas. He attended the University of Texas and received his Bachelor’s Degree in 1960. After graduation, he was commissioned as an officer in the U.S. Navy and spent the next few years stationed in the western Pacific. Upon leaving active Service, Bill enrolled in the Master’s Degree Program at the University of Texas and received his degree in 1964.

On October 12, 2007, Dick Koerner interviewed Wayne Hoelzel for the People of the Sturgeon: Wisconsin's Love Affair with an Ancient Fish oral history project. Wayne Hoelzel, born on April 12, 1947, in Neenah, Wisconsin, has been involved in sturgeon spearing, a tradition he inherited from his family. Residing in Menasha, Wisconsin, Hoelzel has participated in sturgeon spearing for over four decades, with only a brief interruption during his service in the military.

On July 28, 1975, Elsa Keil Sichel interviewed Dr. Herbert Graham, Bertha Veeder Hill, and Peggy Clark Kelley for the Fishing and Fisheries Oral History Collection at the Woods Hole Library in Massachusetts. The interview was part of a historical conversation series at the Woods Hole Library, focusing on the history of the Fisheries. The main topic is the U.S. Bureau of Fisheries in Woods Hole. The first speaker is Peggy Clark Kelley. She speaks of her grandfather, Edward Linton, who came to Woods Hole with Director Spencer Baird in 1882 when Linton was a student at Yale.

Oral history interview with Rawlin Nelson.

Interview with Corbett Mullins

Oral history interview with Jun Mori. 

Oral history interview with Martha McKinzie.

Oral history interview with Lloyd Menveg.

Arthur "Swede" Nelson is a seasoned fisherman with extensive experience in the fishing industry of Woods Hall. Born and raised in Providence, Rhode Island, he ventured into commercial fishing after graduating from high school in 1926. Swede fished out of Providence for a few years before joining the Coast Guard and later returning to Provincetown for a couple more years. In 1934, he made his way to Woods Hall and began fishing on the Charles Fossey, a vessel owned by Sam Cahoon. Swede became well-known among his peers and was often referred to as "Sweet Nelson" in the fishing community.

Jerry Neumueller talks about his experiences with sturgeon spearing and shares some of his knowledge about the sport.  He explains how to find a spot, cutting holes, moving shanties, using decoys, and throwing the spear straight.  He also talks about how things have changed over the years.

Oral history interview with Lanny Nelms.

Oral history interview with Jerilyn Mendoza. 

On October 25, 1993, Earl Droessler interviews Robert N. Culnan in Charlottesville, Virginia, for the American Meteorological Society and University Corporation for Atmospheric Research Oral History Project. Culnan reflects on his extensive career in meteorology, detailing pivotal experiences that shaped the field over several decades. He recounts his early work with prominent meteorologists, including his 1940 summer with Carl-Gustaf Rossby and Jerome Namias at MIT, where he engaged in isentropic analysis under Victor Starr.

Robert Jake Abraham, also known as Bob, was born and raised near Lake Winnebago, where he developed a deep connection to fishing and hunting from a young age. His family has a long history in the area, with his father being born just a mile north of their current residence. Robert's family were local dairy farmers, and he dairy farmed for many years before transitioning to fishing and guiding. He has a rich history of sturgeon fishing and guiding and has been involved in the local fishing community for decades.

John Abler is an experienced sturgeon fisherman with a wealth of stories and knowledge about the sport. He has been involved in sturgeon fishing since the early 1940s and his experiences include memorable encounters with sturgeon and fishing trips with his father. Abler's expertise and passion for sturgeon fishing are evident in his detailed accounts of his experiences, making him a valuable source of information for those interested in the sport.

Sharon Nicholson interviewed Heinz Lettau at Mt. Pleasant, South Carolina, as part of the American Meteorological Society’s Tape Recorded Interview Project. Heinz Lettau, born in Königsberg, Germany (now Kaliningrad, Russia) in 1909, reflects on his early life, education, and career in meteorology and geophysics. He discusses his formative experiences during World War I in East Prussia, his family’s dairy business, and his early fascination with nature and science.

Robert Chervin interviewed Dr. Jerry Mahlman at the NCAR Foothills Laboratory for the Tape Recorded Interview Project sponsored by the American Meteorological Society and the University Corporation for Atmospheric Research. Mahlman reflects on his early life, highlighting formative influences from his family and early work experiences. He discusses his upbringing in Crawford, Nebraska, during the Great Depression and his fascination with severe weather and science, which began in childhood.

On August 23, 2007, Ronald Stouffer interviewed Dr. Syukuro Manabe at the Geophysical Fluid Dynamics Laboratory in Princeton, New Jersey, for the American Meteorological Society's Tape Recorded Interview Project. Manabe reflects on his early life in Shikoku, Japan, where his father and grandfather were physicians, and his initial pursuit of medicine before transitioning to physical science, citing his interest in logical problem-solving.

On February 18, 1989, Earl Droessler interviewed Thomas F. Malone at St. Joseph’s College in Hartford, Connecticut, as part of a tape-recorded interview project for the American Meteorological Society (AMS). The interview focuses on developments in atmospheric sciences and the evolution of the AMS since World War II. Malone reflects on his tenure as AMS President (1960–1961), highlighting the pivotal decision to rename the Journal of Meteorology to the Journal of Atmospheric Sciences, marking a shift toward broader scientific engagement.

On February 11, 1988, John S. Perry interviewed Dr. Thomas F. Malone for the American Meteorological Society and University Corporation for Atmospheric Research. The interview, conducted at the American Academy of Arts and Sciences in Cambridge, Massachusetts, explores Malone’s early life, career, and contributions to meteorology. Raised on a ranch in South Dakota, Malone was influenced by his father’s practical interest in weather forecasting and telecommunication.

On April 22, 2007, William Cotton interviewed Dr. Zev Levin for the Tape Recorded Interview Project. Dr. Levin recounts his early life in Haifa, Israel, and his family's relocation within Israel. He details his academic journey, beginning with studies in engineering and physics, and later transitioning to atmospheric sciences at the University of Washington. He highlights the influence of mentors, including Peter Hobbs, and his doctoral research on atmospheric electricity and hydrodynamic interactions in cloud physics.

Peter originally hails from Connecticut, but at an early age, his family moved to Southern Pines, North Carolina. He attended East Carolina University in Greenville, NC, and graduated in 1978 with a Bachelor’s degree in Biology. Shortly after graduation, Peter took a brief job with Allied Chemical Company. Peter moved to Carteret County, NC, in 1979 and he accepted a Physical Science Technician position at NOAA’s Beaufort Laboratory in March. Peter worked for Dr. Peter Hanson for his initial five years at the Laboratory; then, he worked for Dr.

On October 21, 2011, Cameron Thompson interviewed Howard "Howie" Edwards, Jr., in Rockland, Maine, for the project Assessing Vulnerability and Resilience in Maine Fishing Communities. Edwards, a lifelong resident of Rockland, reflects on his experiences growing up in the region, his family's multi-generational ties to the area, and his personal history as a part-time lobsterman during his youth.

On July 31, 2011, Sara Randall interviewed Benjamin F. Crocker for the "Assessing Vulnerability and Resilience in Maine Fishing Communities" project. The interview, conducted in Tenants Harbor, Maine, explores Crocker’s extensive experience in the fishing industry, beginning with clamming at age 8 and lobster fishing at age 11. Crocker discusses his family background in Machiasport, Maine, his lack of familial ties to fishing, and the influence of trial-and-error learning on his career.

Joyce was born and raised in Fitzgerald, Georgia.  She attended Trevecca Nazarene University in Nashville, Tennessee; then, she briefly taught grade school and high school in Fitzgerald. She applied for a biological technician position at the Beaufort Laboratory and was hired in 1955; she initially worked for the Lab Director, Dr. Chipman. Her Lab duties involved sampling fishes and invertebrates and rearing algae cultures for the Shellfish Section of the Lab. Joyce was promoted to a Fishery Biologist position. Later, Joyce worked for Dr.

On November 7, 1984, Michael Kline interviewed Barbara and Bobby Heavner for an oral history project focusing on the removal of Stonewall Jackson Dam in Lewis County, West Virginia. Barbara Heavner, born in 1934 in Harrison County, provides a detailed account of her life, including her education and early work experiences, which laid the groundwork for her later involvement in the opposition to the Stonewall Jackson Dam project. Bobby Heavner, her son, also participated, adding perspectives from his own experiences.

On October 30, 2007, Ronald Bruch interviewed Dick Koerner in Neenah, Wisconsin, for the People of the Sturgeon: Wisconsin's Love Affair with an Ancient Fish oral history project. Dick Koerner, an avid sturgeon spearer with over fifty years of experience, was born in 1933 and began spearing sturgeon in 1953. Over the decades, he has become deeply knowledgeable about sturgeon behavior, fishing techniques, and the environmental changes affecting the fish population in the Lake Winnebago system.

Geraldine Knatz was interviewed for the Port of Los Angeles Centennial Oral History Project. Geraldine Knatz, born in 1951 in Paterson, New Jersey, served as the Executive Director of the Port of Los Angeles. Her early interest in science, particularly in marine biology, was sparked during her college years at Rutgers University, where she began researching the New York Harbor. This initial exposure to harbor environments influenced her decision to pursue graduate studies at the University of Southern California (USC), focusing on the Los Angeles harbor for her dissertation.

On August 2, 2007, John Jurgenson was interviewed for the People of the Sturgeon: Wisconsin's Love Affair with an Ancient Fish oral history project. Jurgenson discusses his family history and his father's influence on his fishing expertise. He also mentions his work at the water plant and the various sturgeon spears he constructed, estimating that he had made about fourteen of them over the years.

On May 6, 2020, Cassidy Martin interviewed Kelly Shannon for the Maritime Studies Capstone Seminar Oral History Project. Kelly Shannon is an environmental analyst with the Department of Agriculture's Bureau of Aquaculture. Shannon’s work is focused on shellfish management, encompassing tasks such as water quality testing, shellfish meat analysis, and pollution source identification. She works closely with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, state and local health departments, and other relevant agencies to ensure consumers' safety of shellfish products.

On March 27, 2007, Bill McAloon interviewed Harry Kachur for the People of the Sturgeon: Wisconsin's Love Affair with an Ancient Fish project. Harry Kachur, a longtime resident of Menasha, Wisconsin, has extensive experience in sturgeon spearing, a tradition he shares with his family, including his two sons. This interview provides a detailed account of Kachur’s life as a sturgeon spearer, focusing on his experiences and the changes he has observed over the years.

Kaylynn Kim was interviewed for the Port of Los Angeles Centennial Oral History Project. Kaylynn Kim is a lawyer with the Allen Matkins law firm, specializing in real estate, finance, and transactions. Originally from Korea, Kim moved to the United States at the age of seventeen, first residing in Oklahoma, where she attended Oklahoma City University for her undergraduate studies. She later pursued chiropractic school in California before transitioning to a career in law.

On May 29, 2007, Dick Koerner interviewed Elmer Kuchenbecker for the People of the Sturgeon: Wisconsin's Love Affair with an Ancient Fish project in Neenah, Wisconsin. Elmer Kuchenbecker, an 81-year-old lifelong resident of Neenah, shared his extensive experience as a sturgeon spearfisher and his deep connection to the local fishing traditions. He began sturgeon spearing in 1946 after acquiring his first set of fishing equipment for $25, which sparked a passion that lasted for decades.