1. What is Southern Fried Science? Does it contribute to marine conservation?

Southern Fried Science is a science blog run by three graduate students living in the South. Andrew (the Southern Fried Scientist) studies the deep sea, David (WhySharksMatter) studies shark biology and conservation, and Amy (bluegrass blue crab) studies the sociology of fishing communities. We write about our respective fields, as well as about science, conservation and environmentalism in general. We would like to think that we contribute to marine conservation by educating the public about important issues.

2. What were your objectives in establishing Southern Fried Science?

Southern Fried Science has the goal of encouraging discussion between the public and the scientific and conservation communities. Our active and diverse readership includes scientists, employees of conservation organizations, students of all ages, and concerned citizens. We love interacting with the public, and have some incredibly thought-provoking discussions. I hope that the bizymoms community joins in our discussions!

3. What efforts have been taken to conserve the marine eco systems? Do you think they are enough?

As a general rule, if the problem is still there, the solutions aren't enough. While we have some policies (such as fishing quotas, the endangered species act, etc.) designed to protect marine resources, the problem is definitely still there.

4. What type of ramifications can we experience if marine conservation fails to succeed?

According to the United Nations' Food and Agriculture Organization, half of the people on Earth get at least 1/4 of their protein from the oceans. Many people depend on the oceans even more heavily than this for food, and fishing employs millions. If our natural resources aren't better managed, we are all in deep trouble.

5. How important is the presence of sharks for the conservation of marine life?

As apex predators, sharks are very important to numerous economically important ocean ecosystems. Without them, the marine food chain can unravel, sometimes with disastrous results. Some fisheries collapses (which result in lots of people being unemployed) have been blamed on the unraveling of the food chain as a result of the loss of sharks.

6. What role can normal people play to help contribute to the conservation of marine life?

Everyone can help! One of the best things that you can do is to educate yourself, and one way to do that is to read conservation blogs like Southern Fried Science. You can also make a difference with your daily habits. Eat marine stewardship council certified sustainable seafood. Support politicians who try to protect the environment. Don't throw trash in the oceans.

7. Is the future looking bright for marine conservation? Are people getting increasingly aware of the situation and willing to do something about it?

More and more people are aware of the problems facing our planet and our oceans, which is definitely progress. However, a lot more needs to be done by the government's resource managers if we are going to make a real difference, and a lot of these policies won't be terribly popular.