In this episode, hosts Clif Briley and Bailey Smith engage with Chris and Erik Pallister from Gulf of Alaska Keeper (GoAK), discussing their extensive efforts to combat marine debris along Alaska's coast. They explore the scale of the problem, the importance of collaboration with various organizations, and the logistical challenges of organizing volunteer cleanups. The conversation also touches on personal experiences in the field, wild tales from their adventures, and ongoing research into microplastics and wildlife. Listeners are encouraged to get involved with conservation efforts and contribute to the vital work of preserving Alaska's natural beauty.

🌐 Learn more at RiversAreLife.com/Current-Conversations

🔑 KEY TOPICS:

GoAK has cleaned 1,500 miles of shoreline and removed over 3 million tons of plastic.

Collaboration with larger organizations is essential for tackling marine debris.

Logistics for volunteer cleanups are complex and require careful planning.

Volunteers face rugged conditions and must be prepared for physical work.

Research on microplastics is crucial for understanding environmental impacts.

Community engagement is vital for the success of conservation efforts.

⏭️ EPISODE CHAPTERS

00:00 Introduction to Gulf of Alaska Keeper (GoAK)

02:59 The Scale of Marine Debris in Alaska

06:06 Collaborative Efforts in Marine Cleanup

09:04 Logistics of Organizing Volunteer Cleanups

11:54 Experiences and Challenges in the Field

14:59 Wild Tales from the Alaskan Coast

17:50 Research on Microplastics and Wildlife

21:08 Getting Involved with GoAK

🎧 Tune in to learn more about GoAK, an upcoming cleanup on a remote island in Alaska, and be inspired to get involved in conservation efforts.