Tom Wheatley

PROFILE

Tom Wheatley manages Pew’s ocean conservation work in the Gulf of Mexico, and the support and expansion of the National Estuarine Research Reserve System (NERRS). Wheatley’s work in the gulf aims to protect important habitats such as deep-sea corals and seagrass meadows; conserve and restore oysters; ensure sustainable fishing and robust marine food webs; and safeguard marine resources for the benefit of coastal communities, fishermen, divers, boaters, consumers, and others, and for future generations. His NERRS work focuses on collaborating with national, state, and local entities to promote and expand the national network of coastal sites designated by the federal government to protect and study estuarine systems. Wheatley previously managed Pew’s efforts to protect Atlantic bluefin tuna in the gulf.

Before coming to Pew, Wheatley was the regional representative for the Marine Fish Conservation Network in the gulf, advocating for national policies to achieve healthy oceans and productive fisheries and working with partners to end overfishing, protect marine habitats, and curb wasteful fishing practices. He also was the regional representative for the Southern Utah Wilderness Alliance and the Alaska Coalition, and served as canvass director for the Citizens Campaign for the Environment in New York.

Wheatley holds a bachelor’s degree in geography from Pennsylvania State University.