What happens to fishing gear when it’s lost at sea? And how does it impact whales, fisheries, and our oceans?

In this episode, I’m joined by Fritz McGirr, a former touring percussionist turned marine biologist and self-proclaimed “ocean garbage fella.” Fritz works with the Center for Coastal Studies in Provincetown, Massachusetts, where he helps recover ghost gear (ALDFG: Abandoned, Lost, or Otherwise Discarded Fishing Gear).

We talk about how derelict gear is located (from fisherman intel to sonar and grappling grids), what researchers record when gear is pulled up, how this work connects to North Atlantic right whale protection, and why “recycling” isn’t as simple as we’ve been told. Fritz also shares small, realistic ways to reduce plastic—and a hopeful ocean win tied to Boston Harbor.

Episode Show Notes

Fritz's Instagram - @FritzMcGirr

Check out the Center for Coastal Studies and its Marine Debris and Plastics Program

Learn to freedive with Fritz at East Coast Divers

Casey's Instagram - @caseysnook_

Podcast Instagram - @thisismarineconservation

Say hello! - casey@caseysnook.com

What is the High Seas Treaty, and why is it being called one of the biggest ocean conservation wins in decades? In this beginner-friendly episode of This Is Marine Conservation, I break down the High Seas Treaty (also known as the UN agreement on biodiversity beyond national jurisdiction) and explain what it means for the future of the ocean.

You’ll learn what the high seas are, why they’ve been so difficult to protect, how this treaty makes large-scale marine protected areas possible, and why protecting the high seas matters to everyone, even if you live far from the coast. I also explain what treaty ratification means, when the agreement became legally binding, what happens next, and how you can take action to support high seas protection.

Episode Show Notes - https://caseysnook.com/high-seas-treaty-explained/

Learn more about the United Nations BBNJ Agreement - https://www.un.org/bbnjagreement

Send a message to your country's government urging them to ratify the High Seas Treaty (takes literally 2 minutes!) - https://highseasalliance.org/treaty-ratification/a-wave-of-messages-for-the-high-seas/

Casey's Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/caseysnook_/

Podcast Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/thisismarineconservation/

Say hello! - casey@caseysnook.com

What does conservation actually look like in everyday life — beyond policies, protests, and headlines?

In this episode, I’m sharing what I learned during a summer working in the field interviewing recreational saltwater fishers in Rhode Island. What began as a straightforward data collection job with the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management quickly turned into an unexpected masterclass in conservation, stewardship, and the power of paying attention.

I talk about how recreational fishers often act as unofficial data collectors, why people protect the places they feel connected to, and how conservation values are passed down through stories, habits, and generations. I also explore why stewardship is often quiet and habitual, and how joy, routine, and emotional connection to nature can be some of the most powerful drivers of conservation action.

Whether you’re a fisher, diver, beachgoer, or simply someone who loves the natural world, this episode is an invitation to rethink what conservation really looks like, and why noticing, connecting, and finding joy in nature might be where it truly begins.

Episode Show Notes - https://caseysnook.com/summer-interviewing-recreational-fishers-conservation-lessons

Learn more about the RI APAIS program - https://dem.ri.gov/natural-resources-bureau/marine-fisheries/recreational-saltwater-fishing/apais-program

Casey's Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/caseysnook_/

Podcast Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/thisismarineconservation/

Say hello! - casey@caseysnook.com

This Is Marine Conservation is a podcast for anyone who loves the ocean and wants to protect it—without feeling overwhelmed or hopeless.

Hosted by marine conservationist and field scientist Casey Snook, this show explores the science, stories, and solutions behind protecting our oceans. Through solo episodes and conversations with experts, you’ll learn how marine conservation really works, what careers in ocean science look like, and how everyday people can take meaningful action for a healthier planet.

Whether you’re a marine professional, a student, or simply someone who cares deeply about the sea, this podcast is here to educate, inspire optimism, and build a community committed to ocean conservation. Because protecting the ocean starts with understanding it.

Episode Show Notes - https://caseysnook.com/this-is-marine-conservation-podcast-origin-story

Casey's Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/caseysnook_/

Podcast Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/thisismarineconservation/

Say hello! - casey@caseysnook.com

Welcome to This Is Marine Conservation, the podcast dedicated to ocean protection, marine science, and the stories that bring our blue planet to life. I'm your host, Casey Snook—a marine scientist, environmental optimist, and lifelong ocean nerd.

This podcast is your go-to space for marine conservation, ocean discovery, marine biology, science communication, activism, and plenty of salty adventure. Here, you’ll learn real, practical ways to help the ocean no matter where you live. My guests and I explore the science, stories, and solutions shaping the future of our seas, making big topics feel accessible, inspiring, and actionable for everyone.

Whether you're a current or aspiring marine professional, a scuba diver, a student, or simply someone who loves the big blue and wants to make a difference, you’ll discover how to support a healthier, more vibrant ocean one episode at a time.

The ocean needs you, and this is where your impact starts.