By Melissa Mahoney, November 9, 2026
Some moments stay with us forever, and last month was filled with them.
First, there was our full day workshop with the Moss Landing fishing community on October 26th, the main article of this newsletter. This gathering was a long-held vision that finally came to fruition. It was a profound privilege to spend the day alongside such a dedicated group, and returning to Moss Landing Marine Laboratories, where I presented my master’s thesis years ago, made the occasion all the more meaningful and memorable!
Then, on October 29th, a wonderful group gathered at the Haute Enchilada in Moss Landing to celebrate MBFT’s work to improve the viability of our local seafood economy. Co-hosted by the Moss Landing, Monterey Peninsula, and Pajaro Valley Chambers of Commerce, the café was filled with community members, elected officials, partners, and friends.
Monterey County Supervisors Glen Church and Chris Lopez presented a Resolution acknowledging the Trust’s work to benefit coastal communities in the region and its impact on the local fishing community, declaring the County Board of Supervisors’ support. "Moss Landing really is the fishing hub of Monterey Bay—there’s no better place to recognize this vital industry," said Supervisor Church. "While we face real challenges, working together between science and industry will create a path toward a sustainable future."
Supervisor Lopez added, “I’ve noticed a trend where people are becoming disconnected from where their food comes from...thank you for changing the trajectory toward growth and vibrancy. Let’s get some ice here, some new docks, let’s make it happen!”
We then moved outside to “cut the ribbon” on this work, marking a turning point from “Trends to Action”. Having never held the ribbon-cutting scissors before, it was a thrill to feel the warmth and support of our community as years of quiet, steady work by our team came into the spotlight.
I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to do this work alongside such a remarkable team. From our staff, board, and advisors to our research and community partners, everyone is deeply dedicated to finding solutions to the challenges we face and building a more resilient seafood system here on the Central Coast.