The Santa Barbara Maritime Museum (SBMM) will host Jennifer Selgrath as the speaker for its Maritime Distinguished Speaker Series, 7 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 20.
Selgrath’s presentation, Benefits and Barriers: Understanding Ocean Access Across California’s Coasts, will explore the ways people connect with the ocean; and the social, cultural, and policy-driven challenges that shape access to its benefits.
Selgrath is a social-ecological researcher with the California Marine Sanctuary Foundation and NOAA Channel Islands National Marine Sanctuary.
From tracking biodiversity loss to supporting climate resilience in fishing communities, her research focuses on the human dimensions of ocean ecosystems.
Selgrath’s talk will highlight recent research into how Marine Protected Areas (MPA) influence these benefits for communities across the state, especially those historically underserved or excluded.
The evening includes a pre-lecture reception for SBMM members from 6:15-6:45 p.m.
Tickets prices are: free for Navigators Circle members, $10 for SBMM members, $20 for the general public, and $5 for students and educators with a valid school ID or email.
Purchase tickets here, or call 805-456-8750.
“The ocean connects us all, but access to its benefits isn’t always equal,” Selgrath said. “In my talk, I’ll share stories and research that illuminate how communities across California experience the coast differently, and how we can work together to ensure ocean access, equity, and stewardship go hand in hand.”
California’s coasts provide profound benefits, from recreational opportunities and cultural practices to mental and physical wellness. Yet access to these coastal experiences is not always equitable.
Selgrath’s research explores how people from diverse communities — including tribal nations and underserved populations — value and engage with the ocean, and how MPAs can either support or inhibit those connections, SBMM said.
Working alongside community partners, her team uses interviews, surveys, and outreach to co-develop local strategies that enhance equitable ocean access and improve MPA management for all Californians.
“This topic is vital to understanding how ocean stewardship can be both inclusive and impactful,” said Greg Gorga, SBMM executive director.
“We’re honored to host Dr. Selgrath and support conversations that reflect our museum’s mission to connect people to the Santa Barbara Channel and beyond,” Gorga said.
She has previously served as a postdoctoral scholar at Stanford University’s Hopkins Marine Station. She earned her Ph.D from the University of British Columbia’s Institute for Oceans and Fisheries.
The Santa Barbara Maritime Museum is open 10 a.m.-5 p.m. daily. For more about the museum, visit sbmm.org or call 805-962-8404.
The Maritime Distinguished Speaker Series is sponsored by Marie L Morrisroe.