Tide Talks: Bioluminescence
What makes water glow, and what happens when that glow brings people together?
In this Tide Talk, we’ll dive into the science behind bioluminescence in the Salish Sea, exploring the tiny organisms responsible for this incredible natural phenomenon and why they light up the water around us.
Drawing on my experience as a bioluminescence kayak guide and naturalist, I’ll share how encountering glowing water can spark curiosity, deepen our connection to the natural world, and build community through shared wonder. Because sometimes, all it takes is a little glow to inspire a bigger appreciation for the environment right in our own backyard.
Ginny Boughner is a marine science enthusiast, naturalist, and environmental educator pursuing a degree in Environmental Science at Western Washington University. From guiding nighttime bioluminescence paddles to studying marine mammals, she loves finding ways to make the Salish Sea feel a little more magical, accessible, and worth protecting.
