Sea Shepherd proudly kicks off Operation Milagro X this week in the Upper Gulf of California. Operation Milagro X collaborates with the members of the Intergovernmental Group (GIS) to protect the endangered vaquita porpoise, with the Mexican Navy working with Sea Shepherd crews shoulder to shoulder. The campaign prevents illegal fishing gear from getting inside the Zero Tolerance Area of the Vaquita Refuge – a UNESCO-recognized and federally protected area in which gillnet fishing is banned.
Milagro X comes after a historic year. In 2023, we saw a 90% reduction in illegal fishing in the Refuge’s Zero Tolerance Area, as well as the independent 2023 Vaquita Survey that showed at least two calves and more than 10 healthy adults. With cutting edge sonar, radar, night-vision and drone capacity, Sea Shepherd’s dedicated captains and crews work around the clock to protect the endangered vaquita and prevent further harm and population loss.
This grassroots, donation-driven campaign is only possible because of our incredible supporters who make sure our ships stay at sea. Together, we defend the line between survival and extinction, and we hope each and every supporter takes great pride in the milestone we all reach this week.
