Success: Mexico Creates Enormous Protected Marine Reserve

Target: Enrique Peña Nieto, President of Mexico

Goal: Applaud Mexican government for protecting habitat of whales, sharks, rays, and endangered sea turtles.

The Mexican government has announced the creation of a new, fully protected marine sanctuary in the waters around the Revillagigedo Archipelago. At over 57,000 square miles, this is the largest marine sanctuary in North America. Thanks to the Mexican government, several environmental groups, and petitions like these calling for the protection of endangered sea turtles and humpback whales, hundreds of aquatic species will live in a pristine protected habitat, free from the interference of fishing, mining, and other industrial activities.

This marine park is incredibly important ecologically. Four species of endangered or critically endangered sea turtles live in and around the Revillagigedo marine park. Thus, this marine park is an important step in preventing the extinction of leatherback, green, olive ridley, and hawksbill sea turtles. The park provides an ideal environment for migratory species of dolphins, whales, and sharks to feed and rest during their annual migrations of 6,000 miles or more. The park itself is home to many species of corals, one of the world’s largest populations of manta rays, and 26 species of fish found nowhere else on earth.

But the park will also have economic benefits. Although fishing will be banned in the park, fishermen outside the park may actually see an improvement in their catch, as the park will serve as an important breeding ground for species like tuna and sierra. The park is also expected to generate a significant amount of revenue in the form of tourism.

The creation of this highly protected marine park is a wonderful example of how protecting the environment does not have to be at odds with economic interests. Sign this petition to applaud the Mexican government for their commitment to protecting the oceans.

PETITION LETTER:

Dear Mr. Nieto,

I am writing to commend you on your decision to create the Revillagigedo Archipelago marine park. Providing migratory species with a safe place to rest and feed will improve populations of dolphins, whales, and sharks throughout the Pacific. This is an incredibly important step towards the United Nations goal of protecting ten percent of the oceans by 2020. As Donald Trump considers opening United States marine national monuments to commercial fishing, we are thankful that other countries like Mexico, Chile, and New Zealand have stepped up their efforts to protect the oceans. I commend you on your commitment to protecting marine life and the future of our oceans.

Sincerely,

[Your Name Here]

Photo Credit: U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service