My lifetime experience of never living farther than a mile from the ocean has made me aware of the intrinsic value of the ocean
For Garrett Russ spending time near the water has been a lifelong habit. His youth consisted of crabbing, fishing, sea kayaking and boating whenever possible. When he was not on the water, Garrett was out hiking in the coastal forests of southern New England with his Golden Retriever, or in the classroom at Project Oceanology, a marine science educational organization in Groton, Connecticut.
Garrett first came to the Ocean State to attend Roger Williams University, where he studied international relations and sustainability. Since graduating in 2016 he has come to call Aquidneck Island home. Garrett comes to Clean Ocean Access with two years of experience in the renewable energy sector having worked as an energy advisor at Tesla, Inc.
He also brings five years of experience in business management for an antique shop, where he focused on sustainability goals through the relationship of reuse of art and antiques. As development coordinator at Clean Ocean Access Garrett hopes to advance the organization’s mission by furthering its impact in the community and strengthening local partnerships.
Where did you grow up?
I am from Waterford Connecticut where I grew up a stone’s throw away from Long Island Sound. I now call Aquidneck Island home.
What is your first memory of the ocean?
The first time I experienced the ocean I was a few weeks old when my parents brought me down to the beach. This constant exposure makes it hard for me to recall a “first memory” of the ocean. I have countless memories of trips to the beach as far back as I can remember.
What is your favorite ocean activity?
I enjoy ocean activities ranging from scuba, surfing and sea kayaking to leisurely swimming and enjoying the water.
What motivates you to work in ocean conservation?
My lifetime experience of never living farther than a mile from the ocean has made me aware of the intrinsic value of the ocean. This understanding led me to study issues related to sustainability with a focus on marine issues. I have now dedicated myself to a career of preserving and protecting the ocean for future generations to come.