Community Spotlight - Bay Mitchell

What first drew you to marine conservation?

I think the first time I explored a rock pool in Norfolk as a kid, I felt the harsh, salty water and saw the tiny creatures withstanding this environment and thought about how strong they must be. Then as I grew older and learnt more about the environment and climate change, I realised how tough the fight to live really is for the species pushed to their limits due to a changing environment. I have always known I wanted to conserve the natural world, but the marine environment speaks to a deeper part of my soul, one that always drew me back to the waves as a child.

You grew up on a farm right? How do you think that shaped your outlook on the natural world?

I did grow up on a farm, and was part of the Young Farmers Association throughout my teens, where I understood the cross-section between conservation and production of the land. I saw the connection that farmers have to the land and the harmonious way in which it can be cultivated.

I think the farming industry is largely misunderstood and undervalued. It is the beating heart of civilisation in a lot of ways and a key player in the fate of our natural environment. I have utmost respect for the farming community and I hope to provide support to the industry through my career in the near future.

You recently wrote a blog connecting the British Ecological Society’s regenerative agriculture seminar to our #NotSoFreshwater campaign. What’s an innovation or approach that makes you optimistic about balancing food security with environmental protection?

I think the move towards regenerative agricultural practices is a very promising approach to balancing food security with environmental protection. Shifting the perspective from striving for maximum percentage yield to maximum profitability for farmers is a great way to maintain small/medium farms and sustainable practices. I also think that diversification (such as opening farm shops, forest school programmes, camping/glamping sites) has proven effective for shortening supply chains, improving gross value added to the economy and boosting profitability for a lot of farms in the UK, however it is not a guaranteed success or viable for all.

Ultimately, land/farm management requires a multilateral but specific approach, there is no one-size-fits-all solution. But I am optimistic that we are becoming more conscious consumers and environmentally responsible citizens, that are moving towards a more sustainable future.

Tell us about The Open Ocean Pod! How’ve you found the experience of launching and running your own podcast?

The Open Ocean Pod has been a dream come true. I love listening to podcasts and have always wanted to produce my own. When I started my degree I decided to go for it and so far, I have had the most fun organising and recording amazing conversations with inspiring guests. I think the podcast format is such a unique way of conveying information and brings out such varied, colourful styles of communication that you can rarely find in other formats. I am excited to keep going and hopefully contribute to ocean awareness, education and conservation.

You’re stranded on a desert island and can only bring three non-survival items, what are they?

If I was stranded on a desert island and could only pack three non-survival items, I would bring my guitar, some paints and a big old book!

What’s a nature fact you know that sounds made up, but is 100% true?

Male angler fish are absorbed by female anglerfish after reproduction and are significantly smaller than their female partners. This is because the anglerfish are parasitic mates so they latch onto the female's body and can become permanently fused with her.

A conversation between Bay Mitchell and Ben Larsen

Follow Bay's work on IG @bayliemitchell and @theopenoceanpod