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.

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.

Harry Sherman was born in Napa, California, on September 13, 1932. He hailed from a notable lineage, with his paternal ancestors including Judge Uriah Taylor of Illinois and Dr. Harry H. Sherman of Virginia, while his maternal lineage traced back several generations to John Dysslin of New York. After his Napa College education, Harry relocated to San Francisco, where he enrolled at San Francisco State University. During his time there, he actively participated in the Choral group and obtained his B.A. degree. Subsequently, he embarked on a 35-year career with the U.S.

The Sacto Team is a group of divers who have joined forces with Cordell Expeditions, a renowned expedition company specializing in underwater exploration and adventure. The team comprises experienced divers who share a passion for discovering and documenting the mysteries of the underwater world. Together with Cordell Expeditions, the Sacto Team embarks on various expeditions to explore submerged caves, shipwrecks, and other fascinating underwater sites.

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.

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.

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.

A former city councilman for Newport Beach, California and operator of a sport and commercial fishing fleet comments on the Newport Beach fishing industry. Owner of Forgit’s Hardware Store on Balboa Boulevard from 1953 until his death.