California Ocean Science Trust adds two trustees for science-policy work

California Ocean Science Trust has named Dr. Eric Riggs and Dr. Mike Beck to its Board of Trustees, with the California State University and University of California systems each gaining a representative on the science-policy bridge organization. The appointments are meant to strengthen OST’s work on marine education, coastal resilience and science-based decisions for California’s coast and ocean.

Why it matters: - The California Ocean Science Trust plays a role in turning research into guidance for ocean and coastal policy. - The new appointments add expertise in marine STEM education and coastal climate resilience at a time when climate change is reshaping California’s coast and ocean. - The board additions are intended to support science-based solutions for communities, ecosystems and decision-makers across California.

What happened: - California Natural Resources Secretary Wade Crowfoot appointed Dr. Eric Riggs and Dr. Michael (Mike) Beck to the California Ocean Science Trust Board of Trustees. - Dr. Riggs will represent the California State University system. - Dr. Beck will represent the University of California system. - The appointments were announced July 6, 2026.

The details: - Dr. Riggs is the dean of the College of Natural Resources & Sciences at Cal Poly Humboldt. - Dr. Riggs focuses on broadening access to marine STEM education, with attention to tribal communities and minoritized groups in field-based learning. - Dr. Riggs previously served as president of the American Geosciences Institute and the National Association of Geoscience Teachers. - Before joining Cal Poly Humboldt, Dr. Riggs held leadership roles at Texas A&M University, including associate dean for diversity and climate in the College of Geosciences. - Dr. Beck is director of the Center for Coastal Climate Resilience and the AXA Chair of Coastal Resilience at the University of California, Santa Cruz. - Dr. Beck’s research centers on reducing risk to people, property and nature by bringing science into policy and practice. - Dr. Beck spent 20 years as lead marine scientist for The Nature Conservancy. - Dr. Beck has advised government agencies in the U.S., Germany, the U.K., the Philippines and the World Bank. - Dr. Beck has also worked with AXA, Munich Re and Lloyd’s of London. - Dr. Riggs was nominated by the CSU Office of the Chancellor. - Dr. Beck was nominated by the University of California Office of the President. - OST describes itself as a state-created organization that strengthens the bridge between scientific research and ocean management. - OST works with state and federal policymakers to accelerate progress toward a healthy and resilient coast and ocean. - OST Board Chair Dr. Alexis Jackson said timely access to objective, trusted science advice is critical to protect and restore ecosystems and support an equitable future for California’s communities. - Dr. Liz Whiteman, OST’s executive director, said the two new trustees bring valuable experience in workforce development and climate resilience science. - Dr. Riggs said he is excited to collaborate across California and help create ways for students to contribute to research that supports healthy coastal and marine ecosystems and communities. - Dr. Beck said he looks forward to helping advance OST’s work to guide policy and support resilience for California’s coasts.

Between the lines: - The appointments strengthen OST’s ties to California’s two largest public university systems. - The board picks also signal a focus on workforce development, not just research, as California looks for durable coastal solutions. - OST is leaning on leaders with both academic credentials and real-world policy experience, which can help the group translate science into decisions faster.

What’s next: - Riggs and Beck will join OST’s board as it continues work on ocean and coastal challenges. - OST is expected to keep using science, policy engagement and university partnerships to support resilience planning. - The organization will likely continue emphasizing actionable solutions for climate-driven coastal risks.

The bottom line: - OST is bringing in two senior university leaders to deepen its science-policy mission as California faces mounting pressure on coastal resilience.