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It is a story about the Gulf of Maine, a sea within the sea, a body of water that is warming 97% faster than the global ocean. What happens here to the animals in the water, to the jobs that are dependent upon it and to the millions of people living along its shores is likely to happen worldwide. We are at a crossroads for the future of the Gulf and all our oceans. Does it retain enough of its biodiversity and regenerative strength to weather the human-induced storm? Is the sheer beauty of this place and spectacular range of its creatures enough to wake us to what is at stake?
The Gulf of Maine and its resources were significantly impacted by European settlers. This episode reveals how centuries of both ingenious and often disastrous developments resulted in an unsustainable exploitation. As the Gulf warms at a rate faster than 97 percent of the global ocean, we can observe how both people and wildlife are struggling, or in some cases, failing to adapt to these rapid changes.
Cashes Ledge is a remote and relatively pristine part of the Gulf that is home to an unimaginable array of Marine life. Researchers are conducting a study of the area to gain a better understanding of how its cold waters, unique tides, and geological formations provide support for over 3,000 species, spanning from microscopic plankton to massive right whales.
We are at a crucial point for the future of the Gulf of Maine and our world's oceans. Whether it's indigenous scholars leading conservation efforts, scientists monitoring the latest developments, or entrepreneurs discovering new ways to sustainability use the sea, people are forging a new path in these dynamic waters.
Chun-Wei Yi
Self - Narrator
Brian Skerry
Producer / Self
Jon Witman
Self - Brown University
David Tarr
Self - Scallop Fisher
Marshal Lebel
Self - Scallop Fisher
Shane Farrell
Self - Bigelow Laboratory for Ocean Sciences
Robbie Lamb
Self - University of Florida
Doug Rasher
Self - Bigelow Laboratory for Ocean Sciences