New Underwater Docuseries on PBS Explores Rhode Island's "Wild Coast" [VIDEO]

Tomas Koeck has traveled the world filming conservation stories, but the story that surprised him the most was hiding right in his own backyard: Rhode Island.

What once seemed to Tomas to be a coast full of murky water and mudflats has shown itself to be teeming with life and beauty, an ecosystem in need of publicity and protection. From that discovery came Ocean State: Rhode Island's Wild Coast, a 4-part docuseries available for streaming on PBS and Ocean State Media/WSBE.

"We aim to produce a love letter to the Ocean State, showcasing its powerful conservation stories, irreplaceable habitats and incredible wildlife."

 

Directed by award-winning filmmaker Tomas Koeck and produced by Silent Flight Studios in partnership with Ocean State Media and The Nature Conservancy, this series focuses on Rhode Island and Southern New England's marine and wildlife, scientific research, and advocacy community. 

 

How to Watch

The first episode, which focuses on Rhode Island's eel- and seagrass meadows, is available now by streaming on PBS and Ocean State Media.

Eelgrass meadow off Block Island // Shot with Canon R5 + RF 14-35mm lens inside an Ikelite 200DL Underwater Housing.  © Tomas Koeck

Seagrasses are vital to a healthy marine ecosystem. They provide a carbon sink, habitat and hunting grounds for local fauna, and reduce coastline damage by serving as a buffer to large waves.

 

Stay Tuned 

The rest of the 4-part series will be released seasonally through 2027. Stay up-to-date with releases by following the series on Ocean State Media. While you wait for the next release, check out the rest of Tomas' natural history filmography, like Keepers of the Blue.

 

© Tomas Koeck

Additional Viewing

Featured Customers | Tomas Koeck Keepers of the Blue [VIDEO]

From Research to Outreach: Underwater Photography as a Tool for Science

The Power of Underwater Photography for Ocean Conservation

Every Little Stretch of Coast is Dying, We Need to Act Now!

 

Tomas Koeck is an award-winning filmmaker, Canon USA-backed photographer, board member for the Connecticut Audubon Society, and expeditionist. In simpler terms, he’s a storyteller, an environmentalist and, most importantly, an optimist. He has been on assignment for National Geographic, PBS Nature, the Smithsonian Channel and others covering a wide variety of natural history topics and seeks to spread awareness on important environmental issues. Learn more about Tomas' other film Keepers of the Blue with Audubon Florida. You can follow more of Tomas' work on his website, YouTube, and Instagram @tomaskoeck.