In this episode of the "How to Protect the Ocean" podcast, host Andrew Lu discusses the importance of finding and building a community focused on ocean conservation. He reflects on his own experiences and the recurring theme of community in his life and work.

Andrew emphasizes that being part of a community can provide support, motivation, and a sense of purpose, especially when facing environmental challenges. He shares his journey as a marine biologist in Ontario, Canada, and how he has sought to connect with like-minded individuals who are passionate about ocean conservation.

He highlights a recent gathering with colleagues to establish an Ontario Ocean Group, where they can collaborate on projects and discuss solutions to pressing ocean issues. Andrew also references organizations like Surfrider, which have successfully built networks of volunteers and chapters that empower individuals to take action in their local areas.

The episode encourages listeners to seek out their own communities, whether through established organizations or local initiatives, to amplify their impact on ocean conservation. Andrew concludes by inviting listeners to share their experiences and thoughts on finding community in conservation efforts.

There are so many people who are trying to save the Ocean and many of them mean well, but they don't always go about it the right way and pull people into their misguided and/or misinformed campaigns. 

This episode contains 4 questions you should ask yourself before you support any Ocean campaign.

Link To Article: https://www.facetsjournal.com/doi/full/10.1139/facets-2020-0058?fbclid=IwAR2KeUvO9tuWD50McDTu5joRoY3hQ2wMg_bYO7BYsAs_xikfDEo-tEizciM&

Want To Talk Oceans? Join the Speak Up For Blue Facebook Group: http://www.speakupforblue.com/group.

Speak Up For Blue Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/speakupforblue/

Speak Up For Blue Twitter: https://twitter.com/SpeakUpforBlue

Check out the Shows on the Speak Up For Blue Network:

Marine Conservation Happy Hour
Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/2k4ZB3x
Spotify: https://spoti.fi/2kkEElk

Madame Curiosity
Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/2xUlSax
Spotify: https://spoti.fi/2V38QQ1

ConCiencia Azul:
Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/2k6XPio
Spotify: https://spoti.fi/2k4ZMMf

Dugongs & Seadragons:
Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/2lB9Blv
Spotify: https://spoti.fi/2lV6THt

Environmental Studies & Sciences
Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/2lx86oh
Spotify: https://spoti.fi/2lG8LUh

Marine Mammal Science:
Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/2k5pTCI
Spotify: https://spoti.fi/2k1YyRL

Projects For Wildlife Podcast:
Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/2Oc17gy
Spotify: https://spoti.fi/37rinWz

Ocean Science Radio
Apple Podcast: https://apple.co/3chJMfA
Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3bnkP18

The Guide To Mindful Conservation: Dancing In Pink Hiking Boots:
Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/31P4UY6
Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3f7hDJw

Mossel Bay in South Africa is facing a surge of long lining. Last Thursday I was contacted by a representative from Keep Fins Alive who was concerned of an increase in fishing pressure from long lining vessels from Eastern Cape. Keep Fins Alive (KFA) stated that the vessels have over-fished the demersal fish population in their bay and now are spending a lot of money in gas to travel to Mossel Bay to exploit its demersal fish population.

Demersal shark fishing via long lining is legal, but it is required by the state Department of Agriculture, Forestry, and Fisheries to be monitored. Unfortunately, this is not happening at the moment and the fishing vessels are allowed to fish without oversight. The lack of oversight can mean big trouble for Mossel Bay and action needs to be taken.

Listen to the episode to find out why you should sign the petition and ensure the Government makes good on its monitoring mandate. 

http://www.thepetitionsite.com/817/781/781/petition-against-inshore-demersal-shark-longline-fishery/

10 Ocean Tips to Conserve the Ocean:
http://www.speakupforblue.com/wordpress/sufb_optinpdf