May 2026
A Message from Dennis Durgan
President of the Newport Harbor Foundation
President Dennis Durgan
Dear Friends of Newport Harbor Foundation,
We are deeply grateful to each and every one of you—our generous donors, dedicated residents, and passionate supporters—who continue to champion the mission of the Newport Harbor Foundation. Your unwavering commitment to preserving and protecting our beloved Newport Harbor makes all of our work possible.
Save the Date: 3rd Annual State of the Bay Luncheon
We are thrilled to invite you to our 3rd Annual State of the Bay Luncheon on May 13th! This year’s event promises to be our most informative and engaging yet, featuring a fantastic lineup of distinguished speakers who will share critical insights about the health, management, and future of Newport Harbor. Visit Link
Featured Speakers
William Kenney – Harbor Steward & Director
Paul Blank – Harbormaster
Seymour Beek (Balboa Island Ferry) – Ferry Electrification Update
Victoria Orphan – Kerckhoff Marine Lab
Duffy Duffield – Former Mayor & Vice President
Former Harbor Commission Chair Bill Kenney – Mooring Permit Fees Update
Chris Miller (City of Newport Beach Public Works) – Dredging Project
Victoria Orphan – Kerckhoff Marine Laboratory
Kaysha Kenney – Orange County Coastkeeper
Joe Stapleton – Councilmember (Emcee)
Mark your calendars and join us for what promises to be an enlightening afternoon of conversation, community, and celebration of our harbor!
In This Newsletter
We’re excited to share updates and stories that highlight the ongoing efforts to protect and enhance Newport Harbor. In this edition, you’ll find:
Dredging Update
Trash Interceptor Update
Harbor Update
Algae Education
Balboa Island Ferry Electrification Update
State of the Bay Luncheon
Thank You for Your Continued Support
Thank you for taking the time to read this newsletter and stay connected with the Newport Harbor Foundation. Your engagement, whether through volunteering, advocacy, or financial contributions, is the foundation upon which we build a healthier, more vibrant harbor for generations to come.
We humbly ask for your continued financial support as we expand our programs, deepen our community impact, and safeguard the natural beauty of Newport Harbor. Every contribution—large or small—makes a meaningful difference.
Happy Safe Boating,
Dennis Durgan
President
May Issue
More of What’s Inside
A Message from Dennis Durgan
President of the Newport Harbor Foundation
We are deeply grateful to each and every one of you—our generous donors, dedicated residents, and passionate supporters—who continue to champion the mission of the Newport Harbor Foundation. Your unwavering commitment to preserving and protecting our beloved Newport Harbor makes all of our work possible.
Why Newport Harbor Must Be Dredged
By Marshall ‘Duffy’ Duffield
On any given day, Newport Harbor tells the story of coastal life in Southern California. Early in the morning, sailors ease quietly out of their slips toward the open ocean. Paddleboarders glide across calm water. Later in the afternoon, families cruise the harbor while waterfront restaurants fill with visitors enjoying the view.
The Newport Bay Trash Interceptor
By NHF Staff
We’re excited to share some groundbreaking updates about the Newport Beach Trash Interceptor and the cutting-edge technology that’s helping us better understand and combat marine pollution. Our community’s commitment to protecting Newport Bay and the Pacific Ocean continues to drive innovation and positive environmental change.
Leveraging Resources Near and Far
By Paul Blank, Harbormaster
The Harbor Department continues to deliver on its mission to keep Newport Harbor clean, safe, and well-enjoyed. A key component of that mission is actively seeking opportunities to collaborate with partner agencies—local, state, and federal—to bring additional resources and capabilities to Newport Harbor.
The Harbor and Invasive Algae
By Devon Kelly
Caulerpa Prolifera is an invasive aquatic species that is not native to California. It grows quickly and spreads aggressively, forming dense mats that smother native vegetation and alter the harbor’s underwater landscape.
Balboa Island Ferry Electrification Update
By NHF Staff
Great news for Newport Beach and ferry lovers everywhere! The beloved Balboa Island Ferry, which has been shuttling passengers and vehicles across the harbor for over 100 years, is embarking on an exciting journey toward a cleaner, greener future. After facing potential closure due to California’s stricter emissions regulations, the ferry has secured crucial funding to electrify its entire fleet.
2026 State of the Bay Luncheon
Join Us for the Third Annual State of the Bay Luncheon on Wednesday, May 13th, at the Newport Harbor Yacht Club. Click on the link for all the details and a sign-up link
