Earth Day for the World Ocean

Initially started as a protest against environmental disasters- including the 1969 oil spill off Santa Barbara- Earth Day is an annual event celebrated on April 22nd that promotes environmental protection and sustainability. Observed in more than 190 countries around the world, it is a day for individuals and communities to raise awareness about environmental issues and take action to protect the planet.

Read More

A Swimmer’s Nightmare: the Cookiecutter Shark 

Some sharks, like a weird species of dogfish, the cookiecutter shark, (Isistius brasiliensis) are invisible to daytime surface dwellers, but leaves a tell-tale signature bite mark.

First discovered between 1817-1820 by French naturalists Jean René Constant Quoy and Joseph Paul Giamard during an exploratory voyage, the Cookiecutter shark is one of the most bizarre species of shark to rise from the depths.

Read More

Biden Moves to Create New Sanctuary in South Pacific Ocean

Shark Stewards, along with several other organizations, is urging managers of the Fish and Wildlife Service and NOAA to support increased protection of migratory species and pelagic and reef species of sharks and rays as part of the draft Monument Management Plan, expected by the end of 2023.

The coral reefs of the and marine ecosystems of the Pacific Islands support healthy wildlife, provide climate resilience, and provide a variety of cultural and socio-economic benefits. We must act now to support these important efforts protecting vanishing wildlife and imperiled coral reefs.

Read More

Ask Congress to Support our National Marine Sanctuaries and Monuments!

Join us with National Marine Sanctuary Foundation urging your representatives in Congress to prioritize public investment in national marine sanctuaries and marine national monuments for Fiscal Year 2024!

Funding is vital for conservation, science and supporting cultural heritage in existing and proposed National Marine Sanctuaries. Help the USA meet our commitment to United Nations goals protecting 30% of our oceans by 2030.

Read More

International Women’s Day: Inspired by the Sharklady

A particularly inspiring woman in STEM was Eugenie Clark. Renowned Ichthyologist, appointed “Shark Lady”, and founder of the Mote Marine Laboratory in Florida, “Genie” created her own path in science and the study of sharks when none else existed. She was one of the first people to claim that sharks were not mindless monsters who would kill anything in their path but that they are smart, instinctive animals who are worthy of our protection and respect.

Read More

Mexico Closes Down Great White Shark Cage Diving

As of January 10, 2023, cage diving with great white sharks at Isla Guadalupe, 400 miles southwest of Ensenada, Mexico, is permanently prohibited. The Mexican Government’s ban covers all tourism inside the reserve, including film production and liveaboard diving.

Read More