Join Alison Mariella Désir as she explores the magical tidepools of Puget Sound with Ebony and Savannah from SEA Potential, an organization dedicated to fostering connections between BIPOC youth and the maritime industry while addressing cultural and environmental issues.
In the enchanting landscape of Puget Sound, the tidepools reveal a hidden world teeming with life. During a recent adventure at Seahurst Park, Alison Mariella Désir joined Ebony and Savannah, co-founders of SEA Potential, to explore these magical habitats during low tide. This blog post captures their journey, the fascinating marine life they encountered, and the mission behind SEA Potential.
As the tide recedes, it unveils a rich habitat for exploration. The first creatures to catch the eye were anemones, which, despite their squishy appearance during low tide, are usually vibrant and full of life. Savannah explained that these creatures retract their tentacles to minimize water loss when exposed to the elements. Touching them can be a unique experience, as they possess stinging cells that capture prey, but during this encounter, the anemones were harmless.
Ebony and Savannah's journey into the maritime world began with a shared vision. In 2019, while working at EarthCorps, they were asked, "If you could do anything in the world, what would you do?" This question sparked a partnership focused on introducing BIPOC youth to the maritime industry. Both women, under 30, co-founded SEA Potential, aiming to foster connections between young people and water.
Ebony grew up in South Carolina, where her childhood was filled with outdoor adventures, albeit limited to a small creek. Savannah, on the other hand, had a diverse upbringing in California, surrounded by various animals, which fueled her curiosity about nature. Their contrasting backgrounds shaped their perspectives on environmental engagement and the importance of inclusivity in outdoor experiences.
SEA Potential is dedicated to helping BIPOC individuals develop heart-based connections to water. This mission encompasses addressing individual and generational trauma related to water, while also promoting a culture of resilience and joy. The organization emphasizes the importance of healing relationships with water and provides opportunities for maritime career exploration.
During their tide-pooling adventure, the group encountered a variety of marine creatures, including the fascinating plainfin midshipman fish. Typically found at depths of around 1,000 feet, these fish come to the intertidal zone to spawn. Savannah explained that the male midshipman protects the nest after the female lays her eggs. The fish are known for their buzzing sounds and bioluminescent spots, making them a captivating find.
Another highlight of the day was the discovery of hermit crabs, which were amusingly fighting over shells. This playful interaction showcased the vibrant life within the tidepools and the interconnectedness of marine ecosystems. Ebony and Savannah emphasized that tide-pooling is not just about observing; it’s about experiencing and understanding the lives of these creatures.
Ebony shared a profound insight about water, stating, "Water is our first home; in the womb, we were in water." This connection to water transcends mere physical presence; it evokes emotions akin to human relationships. Both Ebony and Savannah expressed their deep personal connections to water and the ecosystem, highlighting the importance of fostering these relationships in others.
The tidepools of Puget Sound offer a magical glimpse into the marine world, and through the work of SEA Potential, BIPOC youth are given the opportunity to explore and connect with this vital resource. As Alison, Ebony, and Savannah discovered, the experience of tide-pooling is not just about the creatures found within; it’s about building relationships with nature and understanding the cultural significance of water in our lives. Through their efforts, SEA Potential is paving the way for a more inclusive and connected future in the maritime industry.
