September 2023 - Director's Corner

It’s now deep summer in Monterey Bay. This is one of the best times of year, when the beaches and roads are less crowded, the days are clear and warm, and the bite of offshore tuna and coastal white seabass energizes many in the fleet. 

For me, it’s a time to be with family, to slow down and to reflect on all that has transpired over the year. I’m also reflecting on our mission as part of our three-year strategic update process. I can’t do this in front of my computer. 

I need to get outside and play in the ocean, go for long walks, and sit in nature. It’s in these moments of “not thinking” where quiet presence opens a space for new ideas to come in.  At least that’s my excuse to get away from my desk! 

What is the purpose of a mission statement? In one simple sentence, it’s meant to clearly articulate why we exist, and also to inspire others—staff, supporters, the public—to further the cause. It’s our ‘north star’, a means to focus on exactly what actions will achieve this mission. And it must resonate with enough people to support our work. 

Our current mission is “to advance the social, economic and environmental sustainability of Monterey Bay fisheries.” It’s a pretty good statement, and has carried us through these last nine years. How might this statement be improved to carry us through the next 10?

In the coming weeks, we will be riffing on this statement to make it more compelling, more relevant to the current landscape, and more decisive in our focus. It’s exciting to listen to all of you and the communities we serve to guide our evolution. I look forward to sharing new ideas as they crystallize. 

I hope you are also taking the time to be with family and friends, to slow down and reflect on what is important to you, and to soak up these beautiful summer days here on the bay.