Rhode Island — Ocean State Media announced today the premiere of Ocean State: Rhode Island’s Wild Coast, a new documentary series celebrating the natural wonders, wildlife, and conservation efforts shaping Rhode Island and New England’s coastal ecosystems. The series, airing only on Ocean State Media, begins with Episode One, Secrets of the Seagrass, on January 9, 2026, at 8 p.m.
The episode will be followed by a re-run of Chasing Fins, a short documentary that centers around the Atlantic Shark Institute’s Rhode Island shark research.
“As a public media organization that is deeply local and distinctly Rhode Island, Ocean State: Rhode Island’s Wild Coast is exactly the kind of compelling, educational, and place-based content you can expect from Ocean State Media,” said President and CEO Pam Johnston. “Given our strong, shared connection with the bay and our coastline, we’re excited to share this fascinating new series.”
Secrets of the Seagrass explores the hidden world of eelgrass meadows—one of the region’s most important yet least understood marine habitats. Often called the “nurseries of the sea,” eelgrass beds support a remarkable diversity of life while playing a critical role in coastal resilience, water quality, and climate mitigation.
Filmed across Rhode Island and greater New England, the episode showcases iconic and ecologically important species including the American lobster, American eel, bay scallops, and numerous other fish and invertebrates that depend on healthy eelgrass ecosystems for survival.
The episode also features leading scientists, conservationists, and marine experts working on the front lines of coastal research and habitat restoration. Organizations highlighted include Save the Bay and The Nature Conservancy, along with regional institutions and leaders in science and conservation advancing efforts to protect and restore eelgrass throughout the Northeast.
“Eelgrass meadows are foundational to the health of our coastal waters, yet many people have never seen them or understood their importance,” said Director Tomas Koeck. “This episode brings viewers beneath the surface to reveal how interconnected these systems are—and what’s at stake if we lose them.”
The premiere builds on recent conservation momentum in the region, including collaborative restoration initiatives and growing public awareness around the role of eelgrass in supporting fisheries, biodiversity, and climate resilience. Secrets of the Seagrass places Rhode Island at the center of this story, highlighting both the challenges facing these habitats and the innovative solutions underway.
Ocean State: Rhode Island’s Wild Coast is produced by Silent Flight Studios in partnership with Ocean State Media and will continue with future episodes exploring the landscapes, wildlife, and people shaping the region’s natural heritage.
Episode One: Secrets of the Seagrass Premieres January 9, 2026, at 8 p.m. on WSBE.
CONTACTSilent Flight Studios: Tomas Koeck | tomaskoeck@gmail.com
Ocean State Media: Paul Singer | singer@oceanstatemedia.org
