Dive into Science: Year of Growth, Leadership and Ocean Stewardship

By Morgan Murphy-Cannella, Director of Education Program

This year has been one of our most impactful yet, with Dive into Science programs flourishing across the state of California. From the North Coast to Southern California, Tribal communities, foster youth, and emerging ocean leaders gained hands-on experience in diving, marine science and ocean stewardship.

The Ghvtlh-k’vsh shu’-srnelh-‘i~ (Kelp Guardians) program with Tolowa Dee-ni’ achieved major milestones this year, completing the Advanced scuba certification including their first ocean and boat dives. Participants strengthened their skills in deep diving, navigation, ocean safety and advanced shore diving, all of which are foundational for a strong scientific dive team in the rough waters of Northern California and Southern Oregon. We are excited to support this group as they work towards their AAUS (American Academy of Underwater Sciences) and Reef Check Kelp Forest Monitoring courses next season.

Our North Coast Tribal Community program had a standout year, with a new group of participants completing both Open Water and Advanced scuba certifications. Participants learned sustainable scallop harvesting techniques and are preparing for Rescue Diver training in the coming year. Youth also participated in tide pool education and abalone population survey training, connecting scientific monitoring to Traditional Knowledge and cultural practices. In partnership with the Sherwood Valley Band of Pomo, we introduced pathways into marine science and restoration careers, supporting a future workforce in ocean stewardship. We anticipate welcoming a new group of youth divers next season as the program continues to grow.

In Southern California, our Chumash and Tongva Community program reached advanced milestones this year, completing their Rescue Diver Certification and the Reef Check Kelp Forest Monitoring course in the gorgeous kelp forests of Pimu (Catalina Island). Participants gained scientific diving survey skills that will directly support the development of a Tribally-led kelp forest monitoring program. We are excited to continue to build on their technical scientific dive skills by completing an AAUS course in Spring 2026!

In Los Angeles and the Antelope Valley, our foster youth initiative continues to thrive with two full cohorts completing Open Water and Advanced certifications this season. Participants experienced unforgettable hands-on stewardship trips to the Channel Islands, practicing proficiency and species ID dives at both Anacapa and Santa Cruz Islands helping them build confidence and teamwork amongst the cohort. Youth attended the Seaweed Festival in Long Beach, an event that brought together scientists, kelp restoration practitioners, Tribal leaders and ocean advocates. This event broadened their perspectives and helped envision future roles in ocean and climate leadership.

Across all programs, Dive into Science continues to expand equitable access to scuba training, marine science education and ocean stewardship. This season showcases the power of community, partnership and culturally-relevant science education.

Thank you to our funders and partners: California Ocean Protection Council and Sea Grant, The Coastal Conservancy, California Coastal Commission, California Natural Resources Agency, California State Parks, Sherwood Valley Band of Pomo, Tolowa Dee-ni’, Sunken Seaweeds, Cal Poly Humboldt, Catalina Island Marine Institute (CIMI), and Stepping Forward LA.