Sea Shepherd Back on the High Seas
By: Hope Wilkos, Writer/Blogger
Photos: Sea Shepherd Website
Back in December 2010, we introduced our readers to the fearless and determined group known as ‘Sea Shepherd Conservation Society’. They have been doing outstanding work as a non-profit organization to end destruction of habitat and the slaughter of wildlife in the world’s oceans. By continuing their devoted cause, they will conserve and protect our ecosystems and species.
Captain Paul Watson and crew are now back in action and it is time for an update. To preface the newest mission to the Antarctic, the Japanese government announced at the end of September that they were increasing the budget for whaling by close to 600%. A good portion of those funds were slated for rebuilding the country after the recent earthquake and tsunami but will not be used for that purpose. This drew heavy opposition from the Japanese citizens as well as criticism from over sixty international organizations. Unfortunately, it appears that the Japanese government is partial to a small but certainly powerful economic elite associated with the fishing industry and plans to assert its authority over the rich waters of the Southern Ocean.
This is where Sea Shepherd and Operation No Compromise enter the picture. As a blessing on Christmas Day, the crew intercepted the Japanese whaling fleet a thousand miles north of the Southern Ocean Whale Sanctuary. This year the tactic used by Sea Shepherd’s Captain Watson on the Bob Barker and the Steve Irwin is the use of a drone known as Nicole Montecalvo. Bayshore Recycling of New Jersey was kind enough to donate this strategic piece of equipment.
The drone was deployed and was successful in locating and photographing the Japanese factory ship, Nisshin Maru on December 24th. This has put the ships of Sea Shepherd at a large advantage knowing the exact whereabouts of the Japanese fishing vessels far before they reach their whaling destination. They have been able to intercept them before they reach their final destination. This, in turn, has prevented any whaling slaughter.
As Captain Paul Watson describes it, “We now have eyes in the sky”. This also alerts them to any immediate, impending and potential danger. The ultimate goal of this 2011 campaign was to ensure that not one single whale will be butchered. So far the success is evident.
Many people may not be aware that over 20,000 dolphins, porpoises and small whales are slaughtered in Japan from September 1st through March of the next year. This takes place in a village known as Taiji in a ‘Cove’. Due to the efforts and dedication of Sea Shepherd volunteers who have become Cove Guardians with a constant presence in this dangerous area, unnecessary and ruthless destruction has been curbed.
The good deeds of Sea Shepherd and their campaigns are being recognized and applauded all throughout the world. They have maintained a strong presence in The Galapagos, participated in the Gulf Rescue Oil Spill, are carrying out Operation Desert Seal to defend Namibian Cape fur seals from being slaughtered and continue to defend the shark and bluefin tuna from becoming extinct.
There is so much that humanity can learn from this committed organization. All the individuals that take part in these campaigns are volunteers that have an allegiance to saving our marine wildlife.
Visit SEA SHEPHERD to gain a better understanding and follow them and support them throughout the year. Good deeds never go unnoticed.
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