Hello world!

Posted on June 2, 2015 Updated on June 3, 2015

Hi there,

My name is Lisa Rider, aka KungPowTofu, aka Treehuggerlisa, aka Coastinista.

This new blog site is about all things Coastal Conservation.

Stay tuned for updates on the eXXpedition amazon research trip I am a part of this year. I will be blogging about traveling light, demoing products and providing info about eco friendly companies that are supporting the research, tips on sailing adventures, BMPs on studying ocean plastics, underwater research tips, marine debris info and research updates, packing lists, and more…

A little about me: I am a self-proclaimed treehugging underwater obsessed ocean protector and has been volunteering and cleaning up shorelines and waterways for over 25 years. I am a proud Eastern North Carolina native and I see that with that pride comes responsibility to make sure the coastal community environment is managed in a sustainable way and while making the connection between the local economy and ecology. I have over 11 years experience in local government and solid waste management. My primary specialty is proper materials management at the coast, which is one reason why I started the annual NC Marine Debris Symposium in 2012. In addition to coordinating the NCMD Symposium and writing for Beach Carolina Magazine, I am also the Onslow County Solid Waste Department Assistant Director, the Keep Onslow Beautiful Administrator, NC Big Sweep Coordinator for Onslow County, and I also coordinate the annual Earth and Surf Fest.
I am a certified PADI Rescue Diver working on my Dive Master certification in 2015 at Olympus Diver Center in Morehead City, NC.
I am also a certified yoga teacher and in my spare time, I volunteer for many local environmental non-profits as well as the Pine Knoll Shores Aquarium Diver program.

Blue skies and calm seas,