During February 2008, writer Charles Wohlforth delivered illustrated presentations on arctic marine habitats and conservation, and the role of native peoples and global warming. Mr. Wohlforth lectured at the Port Townsend Marine Science Center (PTMSC) to a group of approximately 50-100 people, consisting of PTMSC members and volunteers, local students and teachers, residents, and visitors to Fort Worden State Park.
While in Port Townsend, Charles met with Americorps young people. He also presented a talk titled "Writing About Eskimos and Climate Change," to students from Blue Heron Middle School and Port Townsend High School.
Charles Wohlforth is a lifelong Alaska resident and was lead reporter on the Exxon Valdez oil spill for the Anchorage Daily News. In 1993 he became a full-time freelance writer. Mr. Wohlforth has a unique perspective on arctic science, combining extensive experience with scientists, local native peoples and a journalist's understanding of how best to communicate with the general public. Charles authored the book, The Whale and the Supercomputer: On the Northern Front of Climate Change. This book, written for a general audience, explores arctic climate change from the perspective of Eskimo whalers and scientific researchers in Barrow, Alaska. Charles illustrates the challenges and rewards resulting from the knowledge exchange between these two cultures, and delves into broader social issues concerning global warming.