RADICAL GROUPS THAT DISRUPT LEGITIMATE ENVIRONMENTAL CONSERVATION NOT WELCOMED BY FIJI

I did not actually come up with that title - The Government of Fiji did on their blog.

(The following statement was issued by the Ministry of Defense, National Security and Immigration)

The Republic of Fiji takes very seriously the protection of its pristine environment, specifically with regard to the sustainable preservation of its waters and fisheries.

Government is currently working with local and international conservation organisations and the fishing industry, which are assisting the Fijian Department of Fisheries with monitoring, education, and awareness. Together with these partners, Fiji is committed to sustainable development policies that aim to protect the country’s marine resources, while taking into account the socio-economic needs of Fijian citizens, in order to ensure sustainable livelihoods.

Radical international groups, such as the Sea Shepherd Conservation Society, any similar organisation or any other related party, which seek to sensationalise esoteric fishing practices, including on so-called "reality television," do so for purposes of self-promotion at the expense of disrupting legitimate conservation work. These groups are not welcome in Fiji and will not be tolerated by Government.

-ENDS-

Short, sweet, and to the point - the message could not be any clearer.  For a complete synopsis of the situation read the following posts:

Shark Diver Blog and DaShark

Wolfie One Year Old

Wolfie turns one year old this Saturday - what a ride it has been so far.  

Instead of organizing a birthday party and getting him gifts (he usually just plays with the tags anyway) we decided to set-up a Charity Water Campaign in his name.  I know - it is not a shark related foundation - to be honest, I have not found one that makes a do-it-yourself campaign as easy as Charity Water does (plus they seem to be one of the more forward thinking / organized charitable organizations).

So far Wolfie has been able to raise $150, his goal is $500.  Donations can be as small as $1 - and each $ helps!

Here the link to Wolfie's campaign: http://mycharitywater.org/wolfie

He thanks you in advance ;)

What have I learned over the last year - patience, being less selfish, and wishing that I would have listened to my parents more when I was growing up!!!!

China - Sharks...this could be huge

As per the Humane Society International:

“The news that the government of China will stop serving shark fins marks a watershed moment for the global movement to protect sharks and pushes China onto the world’s stage as an emerging leader in shark conservation."

Read complete article here 

How is this for saving a shark...

Shark Haphazard & Striped Marlin | Pelagic Life from Pelagic Life on Vimeo.