A Lifelong Passion for Conservation: The Man Behind WILDCOAST
Growing up in Imperial Beach, Serge was no stranger to civic issues, having been actively involved in efforts to protect the Tijuana Estuary and South San Diego Bay as a teenager and college student. His passion for coastal and marine ecosystems, however, was sparked by his time spent in remote Baja California Sur, where he carried out his doctoral research on gray whale conservation and ecotourism.
Inspired by his experience in Baja, Serge co-founded WILDCOAST in 2000 to preserve healthy thriving oceans and imperiled wildlife species. He then ran for mayor of Imperial Beach in 2014, bringing with him a lifetime of local experience and a mission-driven focus on protecting nature and addressing climate change.
Serge’s favorite part of his job is being out in the field, monitoring marine protected areas, spotting dolphins off of La Jolla, whale watching in Laguna San Ignacio, or witnessing a massive sea turtle arribada on a remote beach in Oaxaca.
For Serge, effective leadership is all about focusing on positive change, inspiring hope, and making an impact in challenging times. When he is not leading his team or engaging with his local community, Serge can be found outside, surfing, paddling, swimming, skiing, or hiking with his family.
They have had many memorable eco-adventures in Mexico, Chile, Europe, Australia, Colorado, and along the California coastline. His work and love for the environment have made him a beloved figure in Imperial Beach, where he continues to inspire positive change and protect the beautiful coastal ecosystem.
