About VIVA Vaquita
A coalition born from the passion of researchers and educators determined to save the world's most endangered marine mammal from extinction.
How It All Began
VivaVaquita.org was conceived on September 9, 2009 by concerned researchers and educators from three nonprofit organizations: Cetos Research Organization, Save The Whales, and the American Cetacean Society, Monterey Bay Chapter.
We were later joined by others passionate about vaquita conservation: ACS National, other local chapters, Oceanographic Environmental Research Society (OERS), the Muskwa Club, and V-Log. Together, we work to save this Critically Endangered species.
UNITED FOR VAQUITAS
Coalition Members
Together, these organizations combine their expertise and resources to fight for vaquita survival.
OUR PROGRAMS
What We Do
We work collaboratively with NGOs, museums, aquaria, foundations, and government organizations through these key programs.
International Save the Vaquita Day
Our flagship annual event on the first Saturday after July 4th brings communities together globally with booths, games, music, and life-size vaquita models to raise awareness.
Conferences & Environmental Festivals
We set up booths at national and international marine mammal conferences, using anatomically-accurate vaquita models to engage and educate attendees.
School Programs
Through one of our coalition partners, Save the Whales, we conduct hundreds of marine conservation programs in schools, with emphasis on the vaquita and healthy marine environments.
Research & Photo Expeditions
We organize expeditions to document vaquitas. Our work produced the first high-quality images in their natural habitat.
Lobbying & Advocacy
Through letter-writing campaigns and petitions, we lobby governments to strengthen vaquita conservation programs and enforce gillnet bans.
Accurate Information Hub
Through letter-writing campaigns and petitions, we lobby governments to strengthen vaquita conservation programs and enforce gillnet bans.
Book Rescue & Redistribution
We 'rescue' marine mammal books, reprints, and journals from the trash, making them available to colleagues who will appreciate them. Funds raised through donations go directly into our vaquita conservation efforts—a win/win for all.