 Meet Jaelen Myers, an inspiring marine biologist who has turned her love for aquatic life into a successful academic career. Hailing from Illinois, Jaelen completed her undergraduate degree in environmental biology and furthered her education with a master's in reproductive physiology in fishes. Today, Jaelen is pursuing her PhD at James Cook University in Australia, where she dives deep into the world of stingrays and their ecological importance. As a gifted science communicator, Jaelen shares her knowledge and experiences with a wide audience, inspiring future generations to protect the ocean.  Connect with Jaelen Myers: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stingray.savvy/  Twitter: https://twitter.com/JaelenMyers  TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@stingray.savvy  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jaelen.myers.9?mibextid=LQQJ4d    Share your conservation journey on the podcast by booking here: https://calendly.com/sufb/sufb-interview      Fill out our listener survey: https://www.speakupforblue.com/survey     Join the audio program - Build Your Marine Science and Conservation Career: https://www.speakupforblue.com/career   Facebook Group: https://bit.ly/3NmYvsI Connect with Speak Up For Blue: Website: https://bit.ly/3fOF3Wf Instagram: https://bit.ly/3rIaJSG Twitter: https://bit.ly/3rHZxpc             

Jaelen Myers' Journey: From Indiana to Stingray Research in Australia

Dive into the Depths: Join Andrew Lewin on 'How to Protect the Ocean' – Your Gateway to Exclusive Ocean Insights! Explore the latest, uncharted realms of ocean science and conservation that you won't find anywhere else. Andrew takes you on an inspiring journey to uncover the hidden gems of oceanic discovery and initiatives. Tune in to discover how you can transform your life for a better ocean, one episode at a time.

The How To Protect The Ocean is your resource to keep you informed on the latest ocean news; teach you how to speak up for the ocean; and, how you can take action to live for a better ocean. 

There is so much information on the ocean and the issues that are affecting it that it can be difficult to find optimism in the future of the ocean. Climate change, overfishing, plastic pollution, water pollution, and coastal development have altered the ocean in ways that have negatively changed the way we use it. 

The repercussions of climate change, including the ominous specter of rising sea levels, the relentless march of warming ocean temperatures, and the ominous shadow of ocean acidification, have not only altered the very fabric of our coastlines but have also conjured fiercer storms and summoned floods with growing frequency. The fossil fuel industry may whisper in your ear that the situation is insurmountable, an inescapable fate. However, this podcast is here to unveil a different narrative, one that empowers you to take action. It illuminates the path to change by casting your vote for leaders committed to implementing climate-rescuing policies and by offering invaluable insights into how each of us can shrink our individual carbon footprint.

The grim reality of overfishing casts a long shadow, fueled by governmental shortcomings in the stewardship of both commercial and recreational fisheries. Within the delicate balance of our oceans, every fish population possesses a threshold - a point at which the relentless harvest of fishermen begins to erode their numbers. The management of these aquatic resources is a formidable task, as the elusive currents of the sea often defy easy tracking. Furthermore, the menace of illegal, unregulated, and unreported (IUU) fishing looms large in many nations, adding to the crisis.

Yet, a glimmer of hope shines through the depths. A beacon for responsible consumption emerges in the form of seafood programs, guiding conscientious individuals toward choices that safeguard our oceans. By heeding these programs, you not only savor the delights of sustainable seafood but also become an informed guardian of marine ecosystems.

The relentless scourge of plastic pollution has unleashed an epidemic of death upon the denizens of our oceans. It's a ruthless killer, claiming the lives of hundreds of thousands of marine mammals, majestic sharks, grandiose fish, gentle sea turtles, and the graceful sea birds that soar above. The malevolence of this crisis knows no bounds, with microplastics infiltrating even the remotest depths of the ocean and etching their presence along every coastline.

To mount a defense against this ecological cataclysm, the clarion call for action echoes on the international and national stages. It beckons governments far and wide to adopt resolute policies, wielding the power to outlaw the menace of single-use plastics and demanding the meticulous detoxification of our supply chains. In this grand battle to safeguard our seas, the fight against plastic pollution knows no borders.

The ominous specter of water pollution looms large, a consequence of our thoughtless disposal into the arteries of our planet – our streams, rivers, lakes, and oceans. This callous act reverberates, sending shockwaves through the intricate ecosystems of our coastal havens, where the likes of coral reefs, resilient mangroves, and swaying seagrasses thrive. But alas, this intrusion is not benign; it bears the capacity to corrode and dismantle these vital sanctuaries, the very lifeblood of countless fish and the steadfast guardians of our vulnerable shorelines.

Yet, amidst the unsettling tide of pollution, there emerges a ray of hope. Through individual resolve and visionary government policies harnessed with cutting-edge technology, we can stem this toxic deluge. Water treatment systems stand as stalwart guardians, armed with the ability to sift out the insidious nutrients that fuel destructive algal blooms. The power to heal our waters and preserve the sanctity of our coastal treasures lies within our grasp.

Coastal development, driven by human desires to construct homes or fortify the shoreline against erosion, represents a significant intervention in the natural order. Yet, these changes, while initially confined to the coastal zone, often send ripple effects that extend far beyond their original boundaries, casting a shadow of unintended consequences.

The repercussions of altering coastlines resonate through interconnected ecosystems, occasionally triggering a cascade of events that can inflict profound harm on distant areas. In doing so, this well-intentioned transformation can unwittingly imperil the lives and livelihoods of communities residing in the wake of its impact. It is a stark reminder that our actions along the coast carry a profound responsibility, not just to the immediate environment but to the greater web of life and society that depends upon it.

Science

Nature

This episode of the How to Protect the Ocean podcast delves into the water crisis plaguing the Hawaiian islands. The discussion explores the impact of climate change, military activities, and tourism on the dwindling water resources. Locals express their concerns about the crisis, highlighting worries about farming, water quality, and quantity. Listeners are encouraged to understand the severity of the situation and consider their own role in preserving water resources in Hawaii. Link to article: https://www.cbsnews.com/news/hawaii-water-crisis-climate-change/       Follow a career in conservation: https://www.conservation-careers.com/online-training/ Use the code SUFB to get 33% off courses and the careers program.   Sign up for our Newsletter: http://www.speakupforblue.com/newsletter        Facebook Group: https://bit.ly/3NmYvsI Connect with Speak Up For Blue: Website: https://bit.ly/3fOF3Wf Instagram: https://bit.ly/3rIaJSG TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@speakupforblue  Twitter: https://bit.ly/3rHZxpc YouTube: www.speakupforblue.com/youtube              Hawaii's Water Crisis: A Multi-Faceted Challenge Hawaii, renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and pristine waters, is currently grappling with a severe water crisis. This crisis is not the result of a single factor but rather a combination of various issues, including climate change, military contamination, and the impacts of tourism. Climate Change:   Hawaii's water crisis is worsened by the effects of climate change. Altered weather patterns have led to prolonged droughts, diminishing the crucial rainfall needed to replenish freshwater sources on the islands.   The islands heavily depend on rainfall to recharge freshwater sources, which then percolate through the mountains into aquifers. However, with changing climate patterns, the frequency and intensity of rainfall have decreased, affecting the availability of potable water for residents.   Military Contamination:   The presence of the U.S. military in Hawaii has also played a role in the water crisis. Military activities, such as the storage of jet fuel and chemicals like PFAS, have resulted in the contamination of water sources on the islands.   Incidents of jet fuel leaks and chemical contamination have led to health issues for residents, including birth defects and mental health concerns. The military's inadequate containment systems have failed to prevent these harmful substances from entering the water supply.   Tourism Impact:   The thriving tourism industry in Hawaii has further strained the already limited water resources. Hotels, resorts, and tourist attractions consume significant amounts of freshwater for various purposes, including wave pools and landscaping.   The development associated with tourism, such as construction and infrastructure projects, has caused water contamination through sediment runoff and rerouting of water sources. This has impacted the quality and quantity of freshwater available to local communities.   Conclusion: The convergence of climate change, military contamination, and tourism activities has created a complex water crisis in Hawaii. Addressing this crisis requires a multi-faceted approach that includes sustainable water management practices, stricter regulations on contamination, and a reevaluation of the tourism industry's water usage. Preserving Hawaii's precious freshwater resources is essential not only for environmental conservation but also for the well-being and livelihoods of the island's residents. The water crisis in Hawaii not only poses environmental challenges but also significantly impacts the health and well-being of the local Hawaiian population. The episode highlights how contamination from sources like leaking jet fuel and chemicals used as fire deterrents has led to serious health issues among residents. People have reported birth defects, mental health problems, and physical health issues due to the compromised water quality. The situation is exacerbated by the fact that many Hawaiians have lived on the islands for generations and have never had to deal with such health risks before. The emotional toll on the local population is evident, with individuals expressing their deep connection to the land and their reluctance to leave despite the health risks. Displacement due to health concerns or loss of land further adds to the distress faced by the Hawaiian community. The episode underscores the injustice of indigenous people being forced to leave their ancestral homes due to environmental degradation caused by external factors like tourism and military activities. The water crisis in Hawaii serves as a stark reminder of the broader impacts of environmental issues on human health and well-being. It highlights the need for stronger regulations, better management practices, and increased accountability to protect the health of local communities. The episode emphasizes the importance of considering the human aspect of environmental crises and the necessity of prioritizing the well-being of indigenous populations in conservation efforts. To address the water crisis in Hawaii and ensure sustainable water usage, implementing better management practices, enacting tougher laws, and protecting Native Hawaiians are essential steps. The episode highlights the detrimental impacts of climate change, tourism, and military activities on Hawaii's water resources. The lack of rainfall due to climate change has led to a decrease in available fresh water, exacerbating the crisis. Additionally, the tourism industry's excessive water usage for activities like wave pools and the military's contamination of water sources with jet fuel have further strained the water supply. To combat these challenges, it is crucial to establish better management practices. This includes regulating water usage by all stakeholders, especially industries like tourism, to ensure that water resources are used sustainably. Tougher laws need to be implemented to enforce water conservation measures and prevent contamination of water sources. Additionally, protecting Native Hawaiians, who have a deep cultural and historical connection to the land, is vital in preserving their access to clean and safe water. By prioritizing the protection of water resources through improved management practices, stricter regulations, and safeguarding the rights of Native Hawaiians, Hawaii can work towards a more sustainable future. These actions are essential to address the current water crisis and ensure that the island's precious water supply is preserved for future generations.             

The Water Crisis in Hawaii: A Devastating Reality

Andrew Lewin dives into the current status of the Northern Cod stock, focusing on Newfoundland and Labrador in Canada. The episode explores the history of the stock, including the moratorium in the early 1990s and subsequent efforts by organizations like WWF to revive it. Listeners will gain insights into the challenges faced by the Northern Cod stock and what can be done to protect and restore this important fishery. Link to the articles: 1)  https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/newfoundland-labrador/northern-cod-stock-assessment-1.7156719 2)  https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/newfoundland-labrador/dfo-capelin-stock-assessment-nl-2023-1.6779681       Follow a career in conservation: https://www.conservation-careers.com/online-training/ Use the code SUFB to get 33% off courses and the careers program.   Sign up for our Newsletter: http://www.speakupforblue.com/newsletter        Facebook Group: https://bit.ly/3NmYvsI Connect with Speak Up For Blue: Website: https://bit.ly/3fOF3Wf Instagram: https://bit.ly/3rIaJSG TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@speakupforblue  Twitter: https://bit.ly/3rHZxpc YouTube: www.speakupforblue.com/youtube                       The Northern Cod stock has long been a concern, consistently remaining in a critical or cautious zone. This status underscores the urgent need for careful management and conservation efforts to ensure the recovery and sustainability of the Northern Cod population. The history of the Northern Cod stock shows a decline that led to a fishing moratorium in the early 1990s. Despite ongoing monitoring and assessment efforts, the population has struggled to rebound. DFO Science's stock assessments consistently place the Northern Cod stock in a critical or cautious zone, indicating the fragile state of the population. The sensitivity of the Northern Cod stock highlights the importance of effective management strategies and conservation measures. Collaboration between government agencies, nonprofit organizations like WWF, and fisheries unions is crucial in addressing the challenges faced by the Northern Cod stock. These stakeholders work together to gather and analyze data, advocate for sustainable fishing practices, and ensure the long-term viability of the fishery. The ongoing debate surrounding factors impacting the Northern Cod stock, such as climate change and seal populations, further emphasizes the need for comprehensive management and conservation efforts. The variability in stock assessments and the inclusion of new data highlight the complexity of managing a fishery with a troubled history like the Northern Cod. In conclusion, the extended presence of the Northern Cod stock in a critical or cautious zone serves as a reminder of the importance of prioritizing conservation and sustainable management practices. By continuing to collaborate, gather accurate data, and implement effective conservation measures, stakeholders can work towards the recovery and resilience of the Northern Cod population. The podcast episode highlights the ongoing debate and collaboration between government, nonprofit organizations, and fisheries unions to ensure sustainable fishing practices while protecting the environment. It emphasizes the importance of these stakeholders working together to address the challenges faced by fisheries, particularly in the case of the Northern Cod stock.   Government Involvement: The Department of Fisheries and Oceans (DFO) plays a crucial role in conducting stock assessments and making decisions regarding fishing regulations. The government is responsible for implementing policies that aim to protect fish stocks and ensure sustainable fishing practices. However, the episode also acknowledges that there have been instances where political decisions have not aligned with scientific recommendations, leading to negative impacts on fish stocks.   Nonprofit Organizations: Organizations like WWF and Oceana Canada are actively involved in advocating for better data collection, improved stock assessments, and sustainable fishing practices. These organizations put pressure on the government to prioritize environmental protection and ensure that decisions are based on sound scientific evidence. Their involvement highlights the importance of external oversight and advocacy in promoting sustainable fisheries management.   Fisheries Unions: The fisheries unions, such as the Fish, Food and Allied Workers (FFAW) union, represent the interests of fishers and their communities. These unions play a crucial role in ensuring that the voices of fishers are heard in decision-making processes. They provide valuable insights based on their knowledge and experience in the industry, contributing to a more comprehensive understanding of the challenges faced by fishers.   Collaboration and Debate: While there may be tensions and disagreements at times, the episode emphasizes that collaboration between government, nonprofit organizations, and fisheries unions is essential for finding solutions to complex fisheries management issues. By working together, these stakeholders can leverage their respective expertise and perspectives to develop more effective and sustainable fishing practices. The ongoing debate and collaboration serve as a mechanism for ensuring that decisions are well-informed and considerate of both environmental conservation and the livelihoods of fishers.   Overall, the episode underscores the importance of a multi-stakeholder approach to fisheries management, where government, nonprofit organizations, and fisheries unions collaborate to achieve a balance between economic interests and environmental sustainability. This collaborative effort is essential for addressing the challenges faced by fisheries and working towards long-term solutions that benefit both marine ecosystems and coastal communities. One key takeaway from the podcast episode on the Northern Cod stock is the critical importance of including accurate and representative data in fisheries stock assessments. The episode highlighted how the Northern Cod stock has been in a critical or cautious zone for an extended period, indicating the need for precise data to make informed decisions about the future of fish stocks. The episode discussed how the Department of Fisheries and Oceans (DFO) conducts stock assessments to determine the health of fish populations, such as the Northern Cod and Kaplan. These assessments play a crucial role in guiding fisheries management decisions, including setting fishing quotas and implementing conservation measures. The inclusion of accurate and representative data in these assessments is essential for several reasons. Firstly, it ensures that the assessments provide a true reflection of the current status of fish stocks. Inaccurate or incomplete data can lead to misleading conclusions, potentially resulting in unsustainable fishing practices that harm fish populations. Moreover, the episode highlighted the complexity of fisheries modeling and the need for data accuracy to improve predictability and reduce variability in stock assessments. By including the right data, scientists can better understand the factors influencing fish populations, such as environmental changes, predation, and fishing pressure. The episode also touched upon the collaboration between various stakeholders, including government agencies, nonprofit organizations like WWF, and fisheries unions, in advocating for the inclusion of more data in stock assessments. This collaboration underscores the shared goal of ensuring the sustainability of fish stocks while supporting the livelihoods of fishers. In conclusion, the episode emphasized the critical role of accurate and representative data in fisheries stock assessments to make informed decisions for the future of fish stocks. By prioritizing data quality and collaboration among stakeholders, we can work towards sustainable fisheries management practices that protect marine ecosystems and support thriving fish populations.

The Status of the Northern Cod Stock: Between Critical and Cautious

Andrew Lewin delves into the challenges of changing behaviors to address climate change and conservation issues. Despite alarming climate events, some individuals still deny the urgency for action. Andrew shares personal experiences of trying to change his behavior after indulging in delicious food during a trip to Italy. Tune in to explore the importance of behavior change in conservation efforts.       Follow a career in conservation: https://www.conservation-careers.com/online-training/ Use the code SUFB to get 33% off courses and the careers program.   Sign up for our Newsletter: http://www.speakupforblue.com/newsletter        Facebook Group: https://bit.ly/3NmYvsI Connect with Speak Up For Blue: Website: https://bit.ly/3fOF3Wf Instagram: https://bit.ly/3rIaJSG TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@speakupforblue  Twitter: https://bit.ly/3rHZxpc YouTube: www.speakupforblue.com/youtube              Behavior change is a crucial component of conservation efforts, as highlighted in the podcast episode. The episode underscores the challenges associated with altering people's behaviors, particularly in the face of urgent issues like climate change. Despite the overwhelming evidence of climate change and its adverse effects on the environment, society still encounters significant obstacles in encouraging behaviors that can help mitigate these impacts. The podcast explores how individuals often resist changing their behaviors, even when presented with alarming facts and data about climate change. Some may deny the existence of climate change or downplay its severity, leading to a reluctance to embrace sustainable practices. This resistance to change is further fueled by misinformation propagated by various entities, including businesses and governments, who may have vested interests in maintaining the status quo. Furthermore, the episode delves into the influence of political dynamics on shaping public perceptions and behaviors related to climate change. Political parties may exploit climate change solutions, such as carbon taxes, for their own agendas, resulting in polarization and resistance among the public. This politicization of environmental issues complicates efforts to promote behavior change and sustainable practices. The podcast also touches upon the impact of social norms and peer pressure on shaping individual behaviors. People may feel pressured to conform to societal expectations, even if it means disregarding environmentally friendly practices. This societal pressure can create barriers to adopting sustainable behaviors and contribute to the inertia in changing habits. Overall, the episode highlights the complexity of behavior change in the context of conservation and environmental protection. It stresses the need for collaborative efforts from conservationists, NGOs, businesses, and policymakers to address these challenges and effectively promote sustainable behaviors. By understanding the underlying factors influencing behavior change and implementing targeted strategies, it is possible to overcome resistance and drive positive environmental outcomes. Negative attitudes and misinformation play a significant role in hindering progress toward environmental solutions, such as the implementation of a carbon tax. In the podcast episode, the host discusses how resistance and denial are prevalent when it comes to addressing climate change through behavioral changes like accepting a carbon tax. The episode emphasizes how people often deny the existence of climate change or resist solutions like the carbon tax due to various factors. One major factor is the spread of misinformation, where individuals and organizations, including PR firms and fossil fuel companies, have injected false information into the public discourse. This misinformation campaign has led to confusion and skepticism among the general population, making it challenging to implement effective environmental policies. Moreover, the episode underscores how negative attitudes towards environmental solutions, such as the carbon tax, can lead to resistance and denial. People may view these measures as hindrances or additional burdens, especially when they perceive them as affecting their daily lives, such as increased costs for gas or home heating. This negative perception is often fueled by political agendas and marketing strategies that aim to discredit environmental initiatives for personal gain. The host also discusses how peer pressure and societal norms can influence individuals' behaviors and attitudes toward environmental solutions. For example, in the dad's group mentioned in the episode, there were instances of peer pressure and negative discussions surrounding electric vehicles, reflecting a broader trend of resistance to change and denial of climate-related issues. Overall, the episode underscores the importance of addressing negative attitudes and misinformation to facilitate progress toward environmental solutions like the carbon tax. By promoting accurate information, fostering positive discussions, and encouraging behavior change, individuals and communities can overcome resistance and denial to work towards a more sustainable future. Engaging in positive conversations and leading by example are crucial strategies to promote behavior change and address environmental challenges effectively. In the podcast episode, the host discusses the challenges of changing behaviors related to climate change, such as the implementation of a carbon tax. He highlights how negative conversations and misinformation can hinder progress towards sustainable practices. The host mentions instances where individuals in a dad's group on Facebook were posting negatively about electric vehicles (EVs) and the carbon tax. These negative posts can influence others to resist change and maintain unsustainable habits. However, some group members stood up for sustainable practices, such as owning an EV, and questioned the negativity surrounding environmental solutions. By engaging in positive conversations and leading by example, individuals can inspire others to adopt more sustainable behaviors. The host emphasizes the importance of speaking up for the environment, even in the face of opposition or negativity. By sharing information, discussing the benefits of sustainable practices, and showcasing personal commitment to environmental conservation, individuals can influence others to make positive changes. Moreover, the host mentions organizations like R.A.R.E. that focus on behavior change strategies to promote sustainable practices in communities worldwide. These organizations demonstrate the effectiveness of positive communication and leading by example in driving behavior change towards environmental conservation. Overall, the episode underscores the significance of positive conversations and setting a positive example in promoting behavior change and addressing environmental challenges effectively. By fostering a supportive and constructive dialogue around sustainability, individuals can inspire others to embrace eco-friendly practices and contribute to a healthier planet.               

The Challenge of Changing Behaviors for Climate Conservation

Andrew Luen discusses the concerning issue of small tooth sawfish dying in the Florida Keys. Listeners will learn about why this is happening, the rescue efforts in place, and how they can take action to help protect the ocean. Stay informed by signing up for the newsletter at speakupforblue.com/newsletter for more ocean-related stories, podcast updates, job opportunities, and news before it hits social media algorithms. Link to article:  https://www.nationalgeographic.com/animals/article/rescue-endangered-sawfish-spinning-florida       Follow a career in conservation: https://www.conservation-careers.com/online-training/ Use the code SUFB to get 33% off courses and the careers program.   Sign up for our Newsletter: http://www.speakupforblue.com/newsletter        Facebook Group: https://bit.ly/3NmYvsI Connect with Speak Up For Blue: Website: https://bit.ly/3fOF3Wf Instagram: https://bit.ly/3rIaJSG TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@speakupforblue  Twitter: https://bit.ly/3rHZxpc YouTube: www.speakupforblue.com/youtube                       The small tooth sawfish population in the Florida Keys is facing a critical situation due to a mysterious fish ailment, leading to a high mortality rate among these endangered species. Protected under the Endangered Species Act since 2003, the sawfish are experiencing unprecedented mortality rates due to this unknown culprit. Conservation efforts are crucial to prevent potential catastrophic consequences. The small tooth sawfish, the first marine fish to receive federal protection under the Endangered Species Act, has been slowly recovering thanks to conservation efforts. However, recent reports of sawfish spinning in circles and dying have raised concerns among marine biologists and conservationists. The entire U.S. population of sawfish relies on Florida, particularly the Florida Keys, as a critical habitat. The urgency of the situation stems from the risk of losing a significant number of these animals, potentially undoing decades of conservation progress. Collaborative rescue initiatives involving private aquariums, nonprofits, and government agencies like NOAA Fisheries are working diligently to capture and provide care for the affected sawfish. The cause of the mysterious fish ailment affecting the sawfish population is still under investigation. Possible factors such as elevated sea temperatures, water quality issues, parasites, or other environmental stressors could be contributing to the mortality of these endangered species. The rescue efforts involve monitoring hotlines, blood samples, tagging, and capturing the affected sawfish to provide them with care in controlled environments until the issue is resolved. Conservation efforts for the small tooth sawfish are crucial to prevent further decline in their population and potential extinction. The collaborative efforts of various organizations and experts highlight the importance of protecting and preserving endangered species like the small tooth sawfish to maintain the biodiversity and health of marine ecosystems. Elevated sea temperatures and poor water quality are likely contributing factors to the recent deaths of multiple fish species in Florida, including the small tooth sawfish. The episode highlights the concerning situation where these sawfish are exhibiting unusual behavior, spinning in circles before succumbing to a mysterious ailment. This behavior is not isolated to the sawfish, as a total of 57 species in Florida have displayed similar spinning behavior since November 2023. The episode discusses the potential causes of these deaths, pointing towards factors such as elevated sea temperatures and poor water quality. Florida has experienced record-high sea temperatures, exceeding 100 degrees Fahrenheit, which can stress marine species and make them more susceptible to diseases. Additionally, the presence of harmful microscopic organisms like dinoflagellates or bacteria in the water could be contributing to the decline in fish populations. The impact of these deaths extends beyond the immediate loss of individual fish. The small tooth sawfish, an endangered species, plays a crucial role in the ecosystem, and conservation efforts have been successful in slowly rebuilding their population. However, events like these mass deaths could reverse decades of conservation progress and have catastrophic consequences for the species. Efforts are underway to rescue affected fish species, including the small tooth sawfish, by capturing them and bringing them into captivity for monitoring and care. Water quality samples are being taken to investigate the cause of these deaths and to prevent future occurrences. The episode emphasizes the importance of addressing the root causes of these events, such as elevated sea temperatures and poor water quality, to protect marine species and their habitats in Florida.

Mysterious Deaths of Smalltooth Sawfish in Florida Keys

Today's episode of the How to Protect the Ocean podcast dives deep into the world of orcas. From the consideration of two species of orca to the tragic death of an orca at Marineland in France, and a delicate rescue operation for a mother orca off the coast of Vancouver Island, host Andrew Lewin covers it all. Tune in to stay updated on the latest ocean news and learn how you can make a difference for our marine friends. Link to one of the articles:  https://www.washingtonpost.com/world/2024/04/06/stranded-orca-calf-rescue-canada/       Follow a career in conservation: https://www.conservation-careers.com/online-training/ Use the code SUFB to get 33% off courses and the careers program.   Sign up for our Newsletter: http://www.speakupforblue.com/newsletter        Facebook Group: https://bit.ly/3NmYvsI Connect with Speak Up For Blue: Website: https://bit.ly/3fOF3Wf Instagram: https://bit.ly/3rIaJSG TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@speakupforblue  Twitter: https://bit.ly/3rHZxpc YouTube: www.speakupforblue.com/youtube             Efforts are being made to reunite the stranded calf with its extended family of transient orcas to ensure its survival. The calf, left orphaned after its mother tragically drowned in a scenic lagoon off the coast of Vancouver Island, is in a precarious situation. The calf is unable to survive on its own in the lagoon, as it requires marine mammal meat such as seals or sea lions for sustenance, rather than the birds it has been seen hunting. A team of marine mammal experts, drone technicians, veterinarians, environmental consultants, and indigenous people are working together to devise a plan to reunite the calf with its extended family. The hope is that the calf's grandmother, aunts, and other members of the transient orca family will come to the lagoon to retrieve the calf. However, the calf is currently unable to navigate the narrow passage out of the lagoon on its own. Various methods have been considered to facilitate the calf's reunion with its family. Initially, attempts were made to entice the calf out of the lagoon by playing sounds that mimic the calls of its family members. However, this method was unsuccessful. Other options, such as using a helicopter to lift the calf out of the water or craning it out and transporting it to the other side of the lagoon, are being considered. These methods pose risks to both the calf and the crew involved, as being out of water for an extended period can be stressful and dangerous for the orca. The indigenous people in the area have a deep cultural connection to the orcas, viewing them as symbolic of their ancestors. The orca's role in their stories is significant, further emphasizing the importance of saving the stranded calf. The collaborative efforts of experts, including the Department of Fisheries and Oceans, veterinarians, and indigenous communities, highlight the urgency and complexity of the situation. The clock is ticking for the calf, and a decision must be made soon to ensure its survival. The tragic loss of its mother, who was pregnant at the time of her death, adds to the urgency of reuniting the calf with its family. The ultimate goal is to ensure the well-being and survival of the orphaned calf by reuniting it with its extended family of transient orcas.

Jaelen Myers' Journey: From Indiana to Stingray Research in Australia

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