Enhance social wellbeing in small scale fisheries

Introduction

Every net recovered, every inspired student, and every committed fisher is proof that donations turn into tangible realities. What in 2024 were plans, in 2025 have become actions that strengthen our communities and the sea that gives us life.

• Community pride (Foundation): gastronomic contests highlighted the cultural and nutritional value of seafood.

• Innovation (as liaison): with UABCS (Autonomous University of Baja California Sur), EDF (Environmental Defense Fund), and TNC (The Nature Conservancy) we connected fishers with technological initiatives and a geoportal on potential fish refuge areas.

• Youth in action (Foundation): high school and ITESME (Technological Institute of Mulegé) students took part in educational and scientific activities.

Impact: fishers recognized, youth motivated, and stronger, more resilient communities.

Recycled Fishing Nets (Foundation with external support)

With Ocean Conservancy and the GGGI (Global Ghost Gear Initiative):

• Over one ton of abandoned nets was collected and artisanally transformed into durable plastic pieces.

• Local collectors received support for their efforts.

• ITESME students presented the project during the Western Flyer visit.
  Also documented in the McKee Center report.

Impact: reduced marine risks, practical learning for youth, and direct social benefits.

Marine Laboratory with The Ocean Foundation (joint initiative)

• Third stage completed with new infrastructure and green areas.

• Fourth stage underway thanks to The Ocean Foundation.

• Science in community: intertidal samplings with international experts and ITESME students.
  Also reported in the McKee Center.

Impact: a living laboratory where science, youth, and nature come together.

Use of By-Products (Foundation)

Fish residues donated by local fisheries were processed into fishmeal for our Dog Shelter

Impact: less waste and more sustainability in daily practices.

Note on the McKee Center

Although the McKee Center for Education, Conservation, and Research belongs to the “Nurturing environmental values in BCS Mexico” project on GlobalGiving, its activities —such as the Western Flyer, intertidal samplings, and fishing net recycling— are also an essential part of the Sustainable Fisheries Program.

Conclusion

During this semester, donors made it possible for plans to become facts: proud fishers, motivated youth, recycled nets, and a laboratory moving forward into its fourth stage.

Thank you for believing that, from a small coastal community, we can build science, conservation, and hope.