Stewards of the Sea
for National GeographicPublished: September 2017
As fish populations crash elsewhere, towns limit catches to stabilize harvests, boost tourism, and preserve a way of life.
Nieman Storyboard: “Scientists are quirky everywhere”
for Nieman StoryboardPublished: December 2015
Biologist-turned-journalist Erik Vance on incorporating science into narrative stories
How Fireflies Are Keeping This Tiny Mexican Town Alive
for National GeographicPublished: August 24, 2017
In Nanacamilpa, a magical display of fireflies is attracting tourists by the thousands—now locals wonder how they can sustain the insect that brought them so much prosperity.
Story Collider: The Biology of Pig Shit
In early 2016 I tell a story onstage about the chemistry of pig manure.
TEDX: Chronic Pain – Shedding the Second Dark Age
Published: September 26, 2017
Chronic Pain: Shedding the Second Dark Age
An Ocean Apart
for Virginia Quarterly ReviewPublished: Spring 2015
Can two forces threatening the sustainability of sharks—the fishermen of Mexico and consumers in China—help the fish survive?
Hugh and the Boobies
for Hakai MagazinePublished: April 22, 2015
Like characters in a soap opera, boobies on a remote Mexican island cheat, kill, and jostle for power.
Feeding the Billions
for Scientific AmericanPublished: April 2015
How a small group of visionaries are trying to feed China—and save the world's oceans.
Losing Maya Heritage to Looters
for National GeographicPublished: August 8, 2014
Stolen artifacts are making it from the Guatemalan jungle to wealthy black-market buyers.