I'm a marine ecologist and started studying marine ecosystems off the California coast in 1980. My primary specialty, and particular scientific love, are kelp forest ecosystems. I love spending time underwater observing and photographing marine species. I also love spending time in terrestrial ecosystems making observations and photographing wildlife and landscapes. I also work with school children and I strive to get them out of the classroom and into nature as much as possible. I lead annual trips to Catalina Island, Leo Carrillo State Park, and Topanga Creek in southern California for 5th, 4th, and 3rd grade students, respectively.