Community involvement key as vaquita marina teeters on brink of extinction

On World Vaquita Marina Day, conservationists highlight community-led efforts to save the critically endangered porpoise, whose population is estimated at between seven and 10 individuals in the Upper Gulf of California. While new monitoring initiatives offer hope, illegal fishing and weak enforcement continue to threaten the species.

Community-led conservation

Pronatura Noroeste, in partnership with the National Commission of Natural Protected Areas (Conanp), has trained 14 local observers in San Felipe, Baja California, to document vaquita sightings using drones, high-power binoculars, and specialized methodologies Source: excelsiormx; Source: mileniomx. Since 2023, the organization's vessel Koipai Yu-xa has served as a platform for community science, allowing young fishers and residents to participate in monitoring and build a connection with the living animal Source: mileniomx. “Only when a community knows, values, and takes ownership of its natural heritage can it become its main ally in protecting it,” Pronatura stated Source: excelsiormx; Source: mileniomx.

Challenges remain

Despite these efforts, illegal gillnets targeting the totoaba fish—whose swim bladders fetch high prices on the black market—remain the primary threat. In June 2025, Hong Kong customs seized 246 totoaba swim bladders valued at over $3 million Source: excelsiormx. A government plan to install GPS trackers on all small boats in the region has been plagued by delays and malfunctions, raising doubts about the effectiveness of enforcement Source: excelsiormx. Excélsior reports that the National Aquaculture and Fisheries Commission (Conapesca) has failed to meet its monitoring targets and has not fully utilized its budget .