The Seahorse arrives at a critical time; data from 2022 shows that Operation Milagro reduced the illegal fishing activity that threatens the Vaquita by 72%. This dramatic reduction in the illegal fishing activity responsible for the decline of the Vaquita is due to the vigilance of Sea Shepherd and the enforcement of the Mexican Navy.
Days after Seahorse’s debut, the Sea Shepherd delegation met with Secretary Ojeda of the Mexican Navy in Mexico City, briefed officials at the US Embassy, and conducted a press conference with Ambassador Moctezuma, Mexican Ambassador to the US, who said “Protecting the Vaquita porpoise is a top priority of the Government of Mexico. We are delighted to herald a new chapter in this joint effort and thank Sea Shepherd for its longstanding partnership.”
“M/V Seahorse is entering Operation Milagro at the perfect time,” Sea Shepherd’s Chairman Pritam Singh said. “Our new ship arrives after a year when our partnership with the Mexican Navy dramatically reduced the threat to the Vaquita, specifically a 72% reduction of illegal fishing activity. This is encouraging news, but we always have to do better. We chose and re-fitted the Seahorse specifically for its design and capacity, both of which will dramatically increase our effectiveness and ability to protect the Vaquita in 2023.”
This work is only possible because of our dedicated supporters. Thank YOU for everything you do for the oceans. We look forward to having you at our side in 2023 as we defend endangered species from the daily threat of extinction in our oceans.
