Rob Caughlan, a political operative, environmental advocate, and founding leader of the Surfrider Foundation, died at his home in San Mateo on January 17. He was 82 years old. His passing followed the death of his wife, Diana, just four days prior, from lung cancer, after nearly 62 years of marriage.
A Legacy of Advocacy
Friends and colleagues remember Caughlan as a passionate and humorous figure dedicated to improving the world around him. He was known by several nicknames, including “planetary patriot,” “happy warrior,” and “Golden State Eco-Warrior.” Dan Young, an original founder of the Surfrider Foundation, described Caughlan as a “gifted people person” who always greeted others with a smile.
The Surfrider Foundation, established in the early 1980s by a group of Southern California surfers, sought to protect the coastline and challenge stereotypes. According to Caughlan’s 2020 memoir, “The Surfer in the White House and Other Salty Yarns,” the group aimed to demonstrate that surfers could be organized and advocate for important causes.
From Politics to the Coastline
Before his work with the Surfrider Foundation in 1986, Caughlan served as an environmental advisor in the Carter administration. His early political involvement included organizing support for Senator Sam Ervin during the Watergate investigation, even printing T-shirts proclaiming “I Trust Uncle Sam.” Warner Chabot described Caughlan as an “early social influencer.”
Caughlan’s ability to persuade and connect with others proved crucial to the Surfrider Foundation’s success. Glenn Hening, another founder, noted Caughlan’s skill in engaging politicians and donors. From 1986 to 1992, Caughlan served as the foundation’s president.
Key Victories and Lasting Impact
The Surfrider Foundation gained national attention in 1989 with a lawsuit against two paper mills in Humboldt Bay that were polluting a popular surf spot. In 1991, the mills settled for $5.8 million alongside the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, a victory Hening attributed directly to Caughlan’s leadership. The mills had initially offered a donation to the foundation, but Caughlan and Mark Massara refused, stating, “We’re not going away. We’re surfers.”
Caughlan’s influence extended to local initiatives in San Mateo County. He and Lennie Roberts successfully championed a ballot measure protecting the coastline from development and ensuring public beach access. They also supported the construction of the Devil’s Slide tunnels, a safer alternative to a proposed six-lane highway.
Even after stepping down from the presidency around 1992, Caughlan remained involved. In 2010, he rejoined efforts to protect Martin’s Beach in San Mateo County, assisting the Surfrider Foundation in a lawsuit against a private owner who had blocked public access. The foundation ultimately prevailed, securing public access to the beach, a victory credited to Caughlan, nicknamed “Birdlegs” by fellow surfers.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was Rob Caughlan’s role in the Watergate investigation?
Rob Caughlan and his friend, David Oke, formed the Sam Ervin Fan Club to support Senator Sam Ervin’s leadership of the Watergate investigation. Caughlan organized the printing of T-shirts with Ervin’s image and the slogan “I Trust Uncle Sam.”
What was the Surfrider Foundation’s initial fight against the city of Malibu about?
One of the Surfrider Foundation’s first campaigns, in the early 1980s, opposed the city of Malibu’s practice of digging up sand in a lagoon, which was destroying the waves at a local surf spot.
What is the significance of the victory at Humboldt Bay?
The Surfrider Foundation’s successful lawsuit against the paper mills in Humboldt Bay, resulting in a $5.8 million settlement, demonstrated the organization’s ability to take on large corporations and protect coastal resources. It was a pivotal moment for the foundation and is widely credited to Caughlan’s leadership.
How will Rob Caughlan’s dedication to environmental protection and community advocacy continue to inspire future generations?
