Gulf of California

Empty Reservoir - Gulf of California, Mexico.
© WWF-Canon / Edward PARKER

Depleting sources of freshwater
Human settlement growth demands freshwater. The urban sewage discharged into the sea strains coastal wetlands and places human population at risk through food contamination.

Overfishing
The global decline in fish catches, combined with rising demand, is leading to a global fisheries crisis that threatens the Gulf of California ecosystem as well as nearly six million people who depend on fish for sustenance and livelihoods. The gulf is the source of nearly 60 percent of Mexico's total annual fish catch, but overfishing is now blamed for dramatic declines in shark, ray and other fish stocks. Also, the overcapitalization of the fisheries industry rises social conflicts.

Climate change
The gulf's natural treasures are threatened by the harmful effects of climate change. Havens for endangered marine life are being lost and we need to begin enhancing the region's resiliency to the impacts of climate change.

Bycatch and other threats
Bycatch – the incidental capture of secondary marine life in fishing operations - is the major threat to endangered species such as marine turtles, whales, vaquitas, as well as vulnerable species such as sharks and dolphins. In some cases, entire populations will be lost if fishing practices are not reformed. We support studies that helps identify Marine Protected Areas to protect the rocky reefs of the Gulf of California and the fish inhabiting them. These actions contribute to preserving critical reproductive fish aggregations and nursing habitats that are essential for fishermen current incomes. We also address threats related to unsustainable tourism, coastal development and aquaculture activities.