Beneath Pacific Tides—Tales from Over 75 Years of Ocean Observations in California
The Santa Barbara Maritime Museum (SBMM) is proud to host Dr. Erin Satterthwaite as the featured speaker for April for its Maritime Distinguished Speaker Series. Dr. Satterthwaite will present “Beneath Pacific Tides: Tales from Over 75 Years of Ocean Observations in California” on Thursday, April 17, 2025 at 7:00 p.m. The event includes a pre-lecture reception for SBMM members from 6:15 p.m. to 6:45 p.m. Tickets are free for SBMM Navigators Circle members, $10 for all other SBMM members, and $20 for the general public.
Exploring California’s Dynamic Marine Ecosystems
California’s ocean is home to one of the most biologically diverse and productive marine ecosystems in the world, providing vital environmental, economic, and cultural resources. However, increasing human activity and climate-related changes are affecting ocean health, threatening marine biodiversity, and altering the services these ecosystems provide. Understanding and monitoring these changes over time is critical to ensuring a sustainable future for California’s coasts and marine life.
One of the most significant tools in this effort is the California Cooperative Oceanic Fisheries Investigations (CalCOFI), the longest-running integrated marine ecosystem observation program in the world. Established in 1949 in response to the collapse of the once-thriving Pacific Sardine fishery, CalCOFI has provided more than seven decades of continuous, comprehensive data on the ocean’s physical, chemical, and biological conditions. This invaluable research has informed marine conservation efforts, shaped sustainable fisheries management, and helped scientists understand long-term environmental changes in the California Current Ecosystem.
“CalCOFI is our eyes and ears under the water. It provides us with essential information to make informed decisions that ensure thriving coasts and ocean ecosystems,” said Dr. Erin Satterthwaite.
Dr. Satterthwaite’s presentation will share the remarkable history of CalCOFI, highlight key discoveries, and showcase how long-term ocean observations have shaped our understanding of California’s dynamic marine ecosystems. From tracking shifting fish populations to monitoring climate-driven changes in ocean chemistry, CalCOFI continues to play a pivotal role in protecting the region’s marine resources.
“Our oceans are changing rapidly, and CalCOFI is an essential tool in helping us understand these shifts,” said SBMM Education Coordinator Jason Statucki. “This program has provided decades of insight into marine conservation and sustainable fisheries, and we are thrilled to bring Dr. Satterthwaite to SBMM to share this invaluable knowledge with our community.”
About the Speaker
Dr. Erin Satterthwaite is a sustainability researcher at Scripps Institution of Oceanography and a California Sea Grant Extension Specialist. She serves as the Coordinator for CalCOFI, working at the intersection of marine science, policy, and stakeholder engagement. Dr. Satterthwaite’s research focuses on marine biodiversity, ecosystem oceanography, sustainable offshore ocean industries, and knowledge co-production. She collaborates with state, national, and international partners to support informed decision-making for ocean sustainability.
Event Details
When: Thursday, April 17, 2025, 7:00 p.m.
Where: Santa Barbara Maritime Museum, 113 Harbor Way, Suite 190, Santa Barbara, CA
Admission:
- Free for SBMM Navigators Circle members
- $10 for SBMM members
- $20 for the general public
Purchase Tickets: sbmm.org | (805) 456-8750
Join us for an evening of discovery as Dr. Satterthwaite shares the stories, data, and science behind 75 years of ocean observations in California!
The Santa Barbara Maritime Museum is open daily from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. For more information about visiting the museum, please visit sbmm.org or call (805) 962-8404.
Most individuals attending the lecture will be able to find seats on the main floor. When overflow seating becomes necessary due to larger than normal attendance, guests are invited to view the lecture from the museum’s Munger Theater. All lecture seating is first come, first served. SBMM members are invited to enjoy a pre-lecture reception from 6:15 p.m. to 6:45 p.m., which provides early access to the event. Learn more about becoming a member.
The Maritime Distinguished Speaker Series is sponsored by Marie L Morrisroe.