Chuck Blay
Chuck is a geoscientist with a Ph.D. in geology from Indiana University. Prior to establishing residence on Kauai in 1995 he accumulated over 25 years of teaching, research and consulting as a sedimentary geologist/oceanographer, including 7 years as a university professor, 5 years in industry research and 14 years as an international consultant. During that time he taught professional short courses and conducted research on all of the major continents of the world. Chuck is the principal naturalist guide conducting our Kauai Nature Tours.
His first encounter with Kauai was in the late 70’s and in 1986 he walked and investigated the 111 miles of the island’s perimeter. Since the creation of TEOK (The Edge Of Kauai) Investigations in early 1996 his emphasis has been on the investigation of the integrated aspects of the natural environment of Kauai and the rest of the Hawaiian Islands as well as on the preparation of a book dealing mainly with the natural and cultural histories of Kauai’s coastal zone.
The book Kauai’s Geologic History: A Simplified Overview, coauthored with Robert Siemers, provides a comprehensive summary of the geologic origins of the Hawaiian Island and the island of Kauai. Other recently completed studies include “Character and Origin of the Beach Sediments of Kauai and the Big Island of Hawaii,” “The History of Drownings on Kauai, 1970-Present” and “Probable Source of Hilo’s Famous Naha Stone”. Among other studies he is at present investigating the Lithified Sand Dunes of Kauai’s Mahaulepu Coastal Area and the Character of Coral/Algal Fringing Reefs of Kauai.
Robert Siemers
Robert is an artist with a keen interest in natural systems. He possesses Bachelor of Art degrees in Physical Geography and Environmental Conservation from the University of Colorado in Boulder and the University of Wollongong in Australia. Interested in conservation and the natural sciences, Robert strives to expand his knowledge of our surrounding environment and incorporate his findings into visual presentations that expand consciousness and promotes awareness.
As an explorer, hiker, kayaker and photographer, he has become intimately familiar with the many trails and adventures on Kauai. He has a great passion for the scenic and environmental diversity found in the Hawaiian Archipelago. As a cartographer and graphic designer, he has contributed maps, books and signage programs to further enhance the appreciation and respect for our fragile island ecosystems.
