Winter 2024

programs: whale ship strike prevention, large marine debris clean-up efforts, and kelp restora- tion research projects. But one of its most important tasks is identifying and guiding our future sanctuary protectors. “We bring in kids from underserved communities and send an educator into their classrooms to talk about ocean health. We also bring them out to the Sanctuary Education Center in Santa Cruz. Sometimes, it’s these children’s first exposure to the ocean despite living a short drive away.We are trying to invest in the next generation of sanctuary stewards and marine conservationists, particularly from underserved communities.” The Monterey Bay Aquarium is another partner, a champion for educating children and adults alike about enjoying and caring for our sanctu- ary. Where else can you get to see a flapjack octopus up close or not be shy about petting a sea urchin? The foundation has also found ways to engage the community with its eclectic roster of ambassadors, including legendary surfers Peter Mel and Greg Long and a dog that hangs-ten. “Our sanctuary’s beauty and power are univer- sal, drawing in everyone from professionals to newcomers, from two legs to four. Besides our renowned big-wave surfers, we have Haben Girma, the first deafblind graduate of Harvard Law School, presidential ‘Champion of Change’ and disability rights advocate, who, incredibly, surfs in our sanctuary, reminding us that the ocean is for everyone. And ‘Rippin Rosie,’ our (Above) The MBNMS Foundation invests in preventative measures like a gear inno- vations manager who works with other agencies to try to develop new whale-safer fishing equipment. (Below) A majestic jelly rises toward the light. 110 C A R M E L M A G A Z I N E • W I N T E R 2 0 2 4 There is hard scientific evidence of the physiological changes that happen in the human body when you are in, on or near large bodies of water. Photo: Bruce Sudweeks Photo: Bruce Sudweeks