Looking for a great organization to get behind here locally in Santa Barbara.   Heal The Ocean should be at the top of your list for too many obvious reasons to list. 

What Does Heal The Ocean Do? (as taken from their website)  Their philosophy is simple...The ocean can no longer be used as a dump. Heal the Ocean is doing all it can to attack all sources of ocean pollution.  Their basic premise consists of lobbying the government for action on ocean-pollution issues, studying the problems themselves and recommending practical solutions. 

They undertake scientific studies to identify sources of pollution - from leaking sewer pipes, offshore sewage disposal, leaking coastal landfills or septic systems.  They test for viruses in the ocean, creeks and groundwater to determine if human sources of pollution are present, and what are the likely sources. In cooperation with Santa Barbara County, Heal the Ocean pioneered both the use of environmental DNA testing and virus testing in the local area. 

They have been successful in commissioning numerous engineering studies and environmental assessments to determine the cost and feasibility of replacing septic systems, upgrading sewage treatment plants and installing storm-water treatment technology.

They have found that once the problem is known and cleanup costs are understood, the public is eager to move forward with cleanup, and more willing to pay the price.

Last night, I was privileged to be amongst a wonderful group of roughly 300+ people celebrating Heal The Ocean's 10 Year Anniversary at a private Montecito Estate.  Fun amongst friends for a GREAT cause was the feeling throughout the night.  Special guests included an opening 40 minutes of music by our adopted part-time resident Jack Johnson and friend Zach Gill.  Following this was a welcoming speech by Julia Louis Dreyfus filled with the usual comedy.  Then Hillary Hauser herself, raffle drawings, awards, a film by a local 17 year old, an auction, continuous food, drink, conversation and music.

Each year this annual Fund Raising Event is held in August and does a wonderful job in bringing the local community together to support OUR OCEAN.

If you are interested in real estate here in Santa Barbara, Montecito and/or our surrounding areas, as well as any other aspects of life here, please don't hesitate to contact Kevin Schmidtchen at Sotheby's Int'l Realty.