Speaker Series: Coastal Engineer Louis White

Adapting to California’s Changing Coast

California’s coastline is one of the state’s most valued natural and economic resources, yet it is also one of the most dynamic and vulnerable. Join us for an evening with experts who will explore the causes of and response to California’s disappearing coastline, including our local challenges.

Coastal Engineer Louis White, Principal at Environmental Science Associates, will provide an overview of the current challenges facing coastal communities—particularly the tension between development, natural erosion processes, ecological health, and public access and recreation. Attendees will come away with a clearer understanding of the science behind coastal change and the practical pathways available for communities to respond and adapt.

A Coastside native, Louis attended local schools, where he was a star long distance runner and devoted surfer. He received a B.S. from The University of CA, Humboldt and a M.S. in Ocean Engineering from the University of of Delaware. For 20 years, he has worked as a specialist in coastal projects from the Oregon to the Mexican borders.

6PM Pre-Talk by Capt. Jim Pruett (USCG, ret), County Harbor District

In his brief presentation, Jim will describe the history of our Princeton breakwater’s construction, resulting impact, and the District’s efforts to address coastal erosion between Pillar Point and Arroyo de en Medio, including the Surfers’ Beach Replenishment Project.

Since 2019, Capt. Jim Pruett has been the General Manager of the San Mateo County Harbor District. Jim’s family ran a fishing business in Pacifica, where his love for the sea was born. During his career in the Coastguard, he served in various capacities, including as a Judge Advocate and a Commander of missions across Guam and the Mariana Islands. In his current position as General Manager of our Harbor District, he  oversees the District’s functions and is intimately involved in planning.