Katie Marshall, a senior at Monmouth University, is not just making waves in her Marine and Environmental Biology and Policy studies; she’s also creating real change as the President of the Monmouth Chapter of Love Blue Inc. Her leadership and dedication have turned this chapter into a force for ocean and coastal conservation, bringing together a growing community of passionate students and local residents. With her guidance, the chapter has achieved remarkable milestones, gaining recognition from Monmouth University and engaging over 250 people in its most recent beach cleanup event—a record-breaking turnout for Love Blue.
A Mission to Protect Marine Life
Katie’s journey with Love Blue Inc. began in the summer of 2023 when she took on the project of studying the reproductive risks faced by the diamond-backed terrapin, a unique turtle species inhabiting U.S. coastal waters. Working under the guidance of Dr. Sean Sterrett, Katie’s project focused on assessing the nesting challenges of these terrapins, particularly in areas frequented by humans, such as Sandy Hook National Recreation Area, Fire Island National Seashore, and Sagamore Hill National Historic Site.
Her work quickly became a blend of hands-on conservation and education. The research aimed to map nesting zones, quantify the female breeding population, and identify environmental threats, particularly those caused by human recreation. From June to August, Katie and her team observed the impacts of human interference in these habitats. They found that unleashed dogs, beachgoers, and other recreational activities were disrupting nesting sites, making it difficult for female terrapins to lay eggs safely. Katie’s findings underscored the urgent need for increased conservation measures to protect these vulnerable turtles.
Building Community Engagement and Awareness
Katie’s impact extends beyond her research. Through her leadership of Love Blue Monmouth, she’s fostering a culture of environmental stewardship and building bridges between students and the local community. Her passion for conservation and knack for organization have not only increased chapter membership but also brought unprecedented student engagement. At their last cleanup event, over 250 people showed up to help, an impressive turnout that demonstrates the chapter’s influence and Katie’s dedication.
“We’re all here because we care deeply about the ocean and its future,” Katie shares. “Every person who joins one of our cleanups makes a difference. When we come together, we’re not just cleaning beaches—we’re creating a culture of respect for our environment that can last a lifetime.”
Katie’s ability to engage her peers is rooted in her sincere dedication to conservation and her knack for connecting people with a shared mission. Through outreach events, educational programs, and community partnerships, she’s managed to build a vibrant network of individuals committed to making a positive impact. Monmouth University has taken note of her efforts, providing Love Blue Monmouth with continued support and encouraging the chapter’s mission on campus.
The 2024 Summer Field Study: Expanding the Reach of Conservation
This past summer, Katie’s role as Lead Field Technician took her work with terrapins even further. She led a team on Fire Island and at Sagamore Hill, managing fieldwork logistics and coordinating research surveys. Together with her team members, Karissa Hough and Innocent Kirungi, she used GPS technology and camera traps to study terrapin nesting patterns, track individual turtles, and compile valuable data for future research.
Katie’s role as a lead technician also involved managing a comprehensive database of the research findings. Her skills in Geographic Information Systems (GIS), a minor in her degree program, proved invaluable in mapping nesting locations and documenting areas of high predation and human interference. Her observations have been essential in understanding the risks these turtles face, and her research will serve as a foundation for future conservation strategies.
Creating a Lasting Legacy at Monmouth
As Katie finishes her senior year, she leaves a legacy of commitment and leadership at Monmouth. Her work with Love Blue Monmouth has inspired countless students to get involved, bringing together a passionate team dedicated to protecting coastal ecosystems. And through her research on diamond-backed terrapins, she’s made a lasting contribution to conservation science, bringing awareness to the importance of protecting critical habitats from both natural and human threats.
Katie’s journey with Love Blue Inc. and her research have shown the power of grassroots conservation. Her story is a testament to the difference one person can make and the importance of community in driving positive change.
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