Leader: Mike Beck

Contributed by Steve Kurtz

Name: Mike Beck

Job: I am a Senior Scientist with the Global Marine Initiative of The Nature Conservancy and a research associate at the University of California Santa Cruz.

Where do you work? Santa Cruz, California, USA

Describe your work:
In my work, I focus on (1) marine ecoregional planning, (2) marine proprietary rights (e.g., leasing and ownership of marine resources) and (3) temperate coastal conservation and restoration. Much of my work in Mediterranean ecosystems is in the giant kelp forests of Big Sur, California, including research with kelp harvesters to examine the effects of kelp canopy loss on juvenile rockfish. In addition, I recently published a paper with an Italian colleague on the loss, status, and trends for coastal marine habitats of Europe.

What inspires you in your work?
I am devoted to conservation because at the beginning and end of every day it feels like I can and have made a positive difference for the marine environments that I care about.

Degree(s)
I hold a B.A. and M.S. from the University of Virginia and a Ph.D. from Florida State University, and I was a Fulbright Fellow at the University of Sydney.

What are the highlights of your career accomplishments? 
I have published my research in several leading scientific journals including Conservation Biology and Bioscience.  I have served on several Advisory Committees including the 2004Marine Reserves & Fisheries Management, the2002-2003Commission for Environmental Cooperation - North American Marine Protected Area Networkand the 2000-2003European Union Energy, Environment, and Sustainable Development Program - Annual Science Review.

What are your favorite species?
My favorite species is Macrocystis pyrifera, the namesake of the giant kelp forest.

What activities do you enjoy in your spare time?
In my free time, I enjoy surfing.