Founded in 2020, Friends of Otter Rock Marine Reserve brought together independent volunteer conservation efforts under one organization, strengthening public engagement and advocacy for the stewardship and protection of Otter Rock Marine Reserve.
Friends of Otter Rock Marine Reserve offers programs and paid internships that invite local community members and students to deepen their understanding and appreciation for fragile coastal ecosystems, the marine life they support, and the area’s geological, colonial, and Indigenous histories.
Strengthen stewardship and protection of the Otter Rock Marine Reserve and its wildlife. We will achieve this by raising awareness of coastal wildlife and the Marine Reserve, connecting visitors and community members to the wonders of this fragile area, and promoting responsible visitation practices.
Cloud moved to the Oregon coast after graduating from the University of Florida with a B.S. in both Marine Sciences and Wildlife Ecology & Conservation. They are passionate about connecting communities to science, nature, and climate solutions. Cloud has conducted research on various ecosystems, like intertidal zones, rocky reefs, and, primarily, seagrass beds. They’ve done work in environmental outreach and education in settings like state parks, SCUBA diving programs, outdoor schools, and science centers. As Program Coordinator, Cloud oversees recruitment and training of volunteers for our outreach programs and community science projects, creates interpretive stories, and represents our organization at ocean-related events along the Oregon Coast.
Growing up along Washington’s Puget Sound fostered Erin’s connection to the ocean and deep appreciation for marine ecosystems. In her role as Communications Coordinator, she focuses on amplifying community voices, strengthening organizational outreach, and using creative communication strategies to inspire stewardship and engagement.
Erin has led several outreach and engagement initiatives, most notably as the founding Festival Director of the Big Blue Film Festival in Newport, Oregon. Through this work, Erin developed a passion to elevate ocean conservation storytelling and strengthen connections between artists, scientists, and coastal communities.
Erin earned a Bachelor of Science in Design and Innovation Management from Oregon State University.
Dennis has extensive leadership experience in building successful public-private coalitions and community engagement at the state and national levels from his career leading public and consumer health initiatives. Dennis devotes his time to Oregon coastal conservation efforts and affordable housing initiatives. Dennis worked with Audubon Society of Lincoln City on their successful Rocky Habitat proposals for designation of Cape Foulweather and Cape Lookout as Marine Conservation Areas. In addition to serving on the board of Friends of Otter Rock Marine Reserve, Dennis participates in community science activities along the Oregon Coast. Dennis holds Masters degrees in Mathematics and in Management from the University of Michigan and the MIT Sloan School of Management, respectively.
Fawn is a recognized marine education specialist, marine science educator for the Lincoln County School District, a conservationist, and leader of community science projects on the Oregon coast. Fawn has taught in formal and nonformal classrooms for over 30 years. Fawn has served as the President of Northwest Aquatic and Marine Educators (NAME), and serves as the NAME Oregon Treasurer and Director. Fawn was CoastWatch volunteer coordinator for 5 years. A graduate of Oregon State University, Fawn earned a BS in science education, a BS in biological sciences, emphasis in aquatic marine studies, a MS in environmental education and a MS in integrated science with post graduate courses in learning behavior and free choice learning.
Genevieve is a Development Engineer in the Innovation Lab (iLab) at Oregon State University’s Hatfield Marine Science Center campus in Newport, Oregon. She holds bachelor of science degrees in oceanography and mechanical engineering from OSU, graduating with honors and earning a research fellow designation. As an undergraduate, Genevieve was recognized for her work bridging ocean research and instrumentation development, including the design and prototype of a novel environmental DNA (eDNA) sampler. She also participated in a two-month research cruise to the geographic North Pole, contributing to chemical oceanographic research focused on climate change.
At the iLab, Genevieve works on marine-focused design projects and mentors student interns. In collaboration with the Marine Technology Society, she is developing a credentialing workshop in design and prototyping ocean research devices.
As a board member of Friends of Otter Rock Marine Reserve, Genevieve brings her passion for the ocean to support programs that inspire ocean stewardship across all ages.
Amelia is a resident of a community that borders Otter Rock Marine Reserve. She is an avid surfer with a background in biology. Amelia has worked with nonprofit organizations and state and federal agencies. Amelia’s past experience as Portland Audubon’s Coastal Birds Coordinator spanned the Oregon Coast working with local community members to monitor seabirds. She has skills in data analysis, mapping, report writing and science education. Amelia holds a master’s in Marine Resource Management from Oregon State University.
Marilyne Coblentz spent childhood summers at the New Jersey shore where she developed a life-long fascination with wildlife that call the ocean home. Marilyne’s passion for the ocean has led to her participation in community science projects on the Atlantic and Pacific coasts. She is rarely seen on the beach without a SOLVE bag or camera in hand. Marilyne leverages her professional experience in marketing and communications to amplify the importance of marine conservation and to bridge the gap between advocacy and community engagement. Her most recent project was the film, “Otter Rock Marine Reserve: Where Science and Stewardship Meet.” The film was selected for the 2024 Big Blue Film Festival where it was well-received. Marilyne holds a master’s in International Management from Thunderbird, Arizona State University.
Margaret has loved the ocean shore since her mom took her on her first trip to the beach when she was one month old. She moved to the north Oregon coast in 2018 and worked for Haystack Rock Awareness Program and Friends of Cape Falcon Marine Reserve before moving to Newport to lead McKenzie River Trust’s coastal conservation program. She joined the Friends of Otter Rock volunteer ranks in 2024 and greatly enjoys keeping an eye on the black oystercatchers and engaging visitors with the marine ecosystem. Margaret holds a Masters of Natural Resources from Oregon State University and has a background in government, consulting, and small business ownership.