The Mexican government and FONATUR have recently announced plans to
proceed with a project called Escalera Nautica, or
Nautical Ladder, in the Sea. The 10-year, $225 million project
will encompass the construction or improvement of 22 ports, none
more than 125 miles apart, on both Baja California coasts as well
as the mainland in the Sea of Cortez. Their goal is to increase U.S.
boaters to the region and to help build infrastructure and provide
jobs for the people of Baja. New roads are being built to
transport boats overland, as well, eliminating the need to sail all
the way to the Cape before entering the Sea.
The Foundation wants to make sure that the massive project proceeds
in an environmentally responsible manner. We will be
setting up outposts in several areas on the Sea, manned by local
volunteers, to help monitor the situation. This is a very crucial
time in history to preserve an amazing body of water from
irreversible destruction. We have appointed ourselves as the
watchdogs that will shine the international spotlight on any
potential problems we see in the making.
Please become a member of The Sea of Cortez International
Preservation Foundation
 The Sea The Sea of Cortez is one of the most treasured marine oases on the planet, a breeding ground for the Pacific Ocean. More than 900 species of fish and marine mammals inhabit the Sea, but the days ahead for many of these species are numbered. Just as the tropical rainforests are being depleted by short-sighted economic policies linked with human overpopulation, greed, lawlessness and poverty, the Sea of Cortez is being devastated . . . piece by piece, year by year...at a rate difficult to comprehend. There is still time to save the marlin, yellowfin tuna, grouper, turtles, shrimp, sardines, bay scallops, sea cucumbers, sharks, yellowtail, the vaquita and the totoaba... all of which are endangered in this body of water, but which would have a chance to thrive with long range social and economic policy changes. Dolphins, sea lions, and manta rays, all of which are now threatened, can continue to live in the Sea. Imagine an international preserve where trawlers, gill nets, and long-liners are outlawed, where the native population can continue to sustain itself in a way which preserves dignity and community, where visitors from both sides of the border can come to enjoy the abundance and beauty of a natural jewel. Making this dream come true is the goal of SOCF.
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