Dockside

This episode explores the US Coast Guard’s internal transition from traditional pyrotechnic flares to electronic Visual Distress Signaling Devices (eVDSDs) and highlights California’s decade of leadership on expired marine flare disposal. Experts from state agencies, counties, and the Coast Guard discuss safety performance, environmental risks, new statewide data, and what boaters need to know as distress‑signal technology evolves.

California’s salmon are making a comeback — and we’re diving into how it’s happening. California Department of Fish and Wildlife hatchery expert join us to explain the innovations, monitoring, and on‑the‑groundwork behind this year’s encouraging numbers. A clear, grounded look at the science and strategy supporting salmon recovery.

Additional Resources

https://storymaps.arcgis.com/stories/6f45105f8a10460286db5b20582d344e

In this episode we talk to Merijn Tinga — the Plastic Soup Surfer who paddles thousands of kilometers to fight plastic pollution. From crossing the North Sea on a board made of bottles to using AI and citizen science to map waste, Merijn turns extreme adventures into real change. This episode dives into his missions, his data‑driven activism, and what you can do to protect the waters you love.

In this episode we will talk with the International Bird Rescue about what they do, services they offer, their history, important contact information for the public and also about the widespread starvation event affecting Brown Pelicans, Brandt's Cormorants, and Common Murres.

Additional Resources:

Olympian, world‑class coach, and newly appointed Director of Olympic Sailing, Molly Vandemoer, joins our podcast for a deep and energizing conversation about grit, leadership, and the future of American sailing.  From her early days on the water to representing the U.S. at the 2012 Olympics, Molly shares the moments that shaped her, the mentors who guided her, and the lessons she now brings to the national program.

We explore youth development, accessibility, environmental stewardship, and what it means to build a culture that supports both elite performance and lifelong love of the sport. With the 2028 Summer Olympic and Paralympic Games in Los Angeles on the horizon, Molly offers a candid look at the opportunities ahead for Team USA — and the vision she hopes to bring to the next generation of sailors.

US Sailing – The National Governing Body For the Sport of Sailing

Millions of gallons of motor oil are used annually in California, but what happens if it gets dirty and drained? Today we are going to learn why "used oil" is an environmental problem as well as a useful resource in this episode. We'll look at how recycling operates, what new items are emerging, and the free programs that assist Californians in closing the loop, from auto shops and marinas to do-it-yourself changes. We'll explain how oil recycling fits into California's larger climate picture—and why it matters for everyone—with insights on legislation, innovation, and future objectives. Let’s welcome Senior Environmental Scientist Emily Wang with CalRecycle.

http://irecyclesmart.com/

In this episode, We will learn about the non-profit California Trout, which works to revitalize waters for resilient wild fish and a better California. We will learn what they do to advocate for a future where freshwater ecosystems flourish and native fish thrive, leaving a legacy of clean water and healthy rivers for current and future generations. Today, we will talk with Redgie Collins, Director of Legal and Government Affairs of CalTrout and Damon Goodman, Mount Shasta -Klamath Regional Director of CalTrout

Additional Resources:

In this episode, we visit with the State Lands Commission about their behind-the-scenes role in conserving public lands, regulating maritime activity, and preventing invasive species from entering our waterways. Discover how this agency helps balance global trade with environmental protection.

Resources:

https://westernregionalpanel.org/

https://www.westernais.org/ballast-water

Previous Dockside Episode, The Golden Mussel: https://www.podbean.com/ew/pb-9r6qx-18be560 

In this episode, we will be joined by Kathi George, Director of Cetacean Conservation Biology and Adam Ratner, Director of Conservation Engagement with The Marine Mammal Center. We are going to dive deep into the Center’s history, mission, and services; species rescued, rehabilitated and released; and common reasons marine mammals are admitted to the center. We will also learn about data collected by the Center and the tools and proper steps you can use to report marine mammals that are in distress, sick or injured.

Resources

In this episode, we will be joined by Cyril Derreumaux, a kayaker, extreme athlete, three times world record holder and the first person to complete solo kayak crossings of both the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans. We will discuss his preparation, experiences, challenges faced, and how he ensured his safety on such challenging journeys. Advocating to “live life to the fullest,” Cyril hopes his adventures inspire others to find their own dream and go after it.