For over three decades, Tina Whitman has been a steadfast leader in marine science, shoreline restoration, and protection. Friends of the San Juans is lucky that she has dedicated most of her career to the protection and restoration of the San Juan Islands’ shorelines. Her recent promotion to Senior Science Director at Friends is a well-earned recognition of her relentless pursuit of scientific research, environmental education, and on-the-ground accomplishments.
Tina’s dedication to Friends is driven by a deep connection to the region and its communities. Growing up on an island herself, she understands the intrinsic relationship between people and place. Her work embodies the organization’s commitment to protecting island communities and shoreline ecosystems through science-based action and collaborative partnerships.
Tina’s journey with Friends began with her exploring hundreds of beaches surveying for forage fish eggs—a project that remains foundational today. Through meticulous research with Tina at the helm, Friends has enhanced protections for 12 miles of shoreline by documenting spawning activity and filled critical knowledge gaps about eelgrass meadows, kelp beds, and the impact of human activities like shoreline armoring. Results from this research are used to identify habitat recovery priorities, implement projects, and educate landowners, managers, and the public. Tina’s leadership has led to over twenty priority beach, coastal wetland, and subtidal restoration projects. This year, Friends will celebrate the milestone of restoring one mile of beach habitat.
Tina will be the first to emphasize and recognize that none of her accomplishments are possible without the invaluable contributions of volunteers, partners, the team at Friends, and especially those who support the organization.
Tina’s influence extends beyond field research; she has led change analysis projects examining long-term trends in shoreline armoring and eelgrass health. These studies provide essential data to inform local and regional conservation and restoration strategies. Tina has contributed greatly to sustaining and improving the marine food web, benefiting seabirds, salmon, and Southern Resident killer whales. In 2022, Tina received the prestigious 2022 Salish Sea Science Prize, a testament to her impact in the islands and region.
Tina feels there is an urgent need for meaningful environmental action and strongly advocates for improved policies to address climate change, protect marine habitats, and support species recovery efforts. With 23 years of experience in San Juan County, Tina also provides deep and insightful guidance on the local and state policy and permitting work done by Friends.
Eva Schulte, Executive Director of Friends of the San Juans, aptly captures Tina’s influence: “It is rare to find someone who has committed much of their life’s work to one organizational mission. Tina has embodied what it means to be an informed scientist and courageous protector for 23 years. Congratulations to Tina Whitman on her promotion and for her unwavering dedication to science and protection.”
