Carynne McIver: August 2010 Archives

Seacology recently partnered with the Comcáac nation, a tribe of Native Americans living in the Gulf of California. One of the most distinct native tribes of Mexico, the Comcáac fled to the region in the early twentieth century when they faced persecution by the government. Today, the Comcáac inhabit Tiburón Island and nearby areas, maintaining the traditions and environment of their forefathers. Unfortunately, like many islands, Tiburón suffers from the problem of waste management. Its beaches are scattered with waste from both the island and the mainland, and the Comcáac community lacks the resources to properly dispose of the waste. Seacology is collaborating with them to address this problem, funding waste and recycling facilities as well as signage to educate the community and visitors about environmental and waste issues.

In exchange for Seacology's support, the Comcáacs will conserve both Tiburón and nearby Canal Infiernillo, which runs between the island and the mainland. The area provides one of the most intact examples of Sonoran Desert habitat, and it contains an abundance of species that are already rare or have disappeared from the mainland. The waters around this island host 34 marine mammal species, including sea lions, blue and fin whales and the world's most endangered cetacean, a small porpoise called the vaquita. Five species of sea turtles thrive in these waters, and green turtles nest on these beaches.

Seacology's Executive Director Duane Silverstein recently visited Tiburón with Field Representative Jose Angel Sanchez-Pacheco to meet the Comcáac and tour the island. Seacology's newest video tells the story of their visit, the history of the Comcáac, and Seacology's project on Tiburón.