Saving the Vaquita from Extinction Through Effective and Permanent Gear Swaps
Project results
The 50 fishermen participating in the project are expected to continue earning their livelihoods from fishing using “Vaquita-safe” fishing gear and techniques instead of drift gillnets.
A revised Environmental Impact Assessment will be presented by fishermen to Mexico’s National Environmental Authorities which includes the use of alternative gear for shrimp and finfish as a way to mitigate the adverse impacts of fishing.
Threats
Over-exploitation of natural resources & prey depletion
Thirdly, in coordination with governments, NGOs, and the fishing sector, a comprehensive transition plan for the phase-out of gillnets in favor of “Vaquita-friendly” fishing gear will be established.
As gillnets are the primary threat to the Vaquita, removing them from the Upper Gulf will give the species the time and ability it needs to recover, hence enabling the Vaquita population to stabilize.
This project is implemented by WWF Mexico.
