Sequoias of the Sea Hits the Big Screen

The Fight to Save Underwater Giants: Fort Bragg’s Kelp Crisis

The latest episode of Rising Tide – The Ocean Podcast features a conversation with Natasha Benjamin of Blue Frontier and Ana Blanco of the International Ocean Film Festival, who recently took on the role of co-directors for Sequoias of the Sea. This 54-minute documentary explores the global crisis facing kelp forests, told through the experiences of the people of Fort Bragg, California—a former timber town on the state’s north coast.

The episode delves into the challenges of making the film, as well as the struggles Fort Bragg residents face in rebuilding a blue economy after the decline of their once-thriving kelp forests. Lost jobs, shifting cultural landscapes, and the disappearance of traditional ocean sports have left the community searching for new ways forward.

The discussion also highlights the film’s upcoming premiere at the International Ocean Film Festival in San Francisco on April 13, offering listeners insight into how they can see the film and learn more about the critical role of marine forests in ocean health.

SEQUOIAS OF THE SEA: When a vital kelp forest vanishes, a coastal town's fragile ecosystem, ancient traditions, and livelihoods crumble, forcing a desperate fight for restoration in the face of climate change.

22nd Annual International Ocean Film Festival: The global platform for ocean literacy and education throughout independent film. Since our inception in 2004, each year the IOFF features a four-day ocean engagement event for audiences from around the world.