Dr. Richard M. Starr

RICK STARR INTRODUCTION

BIOGRAPHY
Rick Starr is a Marine Advisor for the University of California Sea Grant Extension Program for Santa Cruz and Monterey Counties. His work as a marine advisor in the UC system includes research, education and outreach. In the past 20 years, Rick has studied the biology and ecology of marine species that are harvested as fishery resources. As a Marine Advisor, Rick’s job is to help find research-based solutions to coastal problems. This involves a wide variety of research and extension work, including developing educational materials, advising groups on ways to find creative solutions to coastal issues, forging partnerships with schools and organizations, participating in community committees and workshops, and conducting research.

MARINE FISHERIES RESERVE RESEARCH
Much of Rick’s current research is intended to help evaluate the marine reserve concept as a tool for managing fisheries. Marine reserves appear to have the potential to conserve stocks of fish, but there are some critical variables that influence their effectiveness. For example, estimates of sizes of home ranges and frequency of movements of a species are vital elements to determining an appropriate design for a marine reserve that would help conserve that species. However, little is known about typical movements of many coastal species. Rick is working to develop the tools and techniques needed to determine the home ranges and frequency of movements of key species of coastal fish.

RECREATION
In addition to his professional work, Rick is an avid kayaker. He has run difficult rivers in many parts of the world, and was the captain of the US Surf Kayak Team that won the 1999 world championships in Brazil.