June 26, 2014
Ocean News: Green Sea Turtle Reveals Migratory ‘Superhighway,’ Washington Orcas Found to be Highly Contaminated, and More
– In a new report, researchers call for “immediate protection” of the Pitcairn Islands, which sit halfway between New Zealand and South America in the Pacific Ocean. Scientists found endemic coral reefs and an abundance of fish, and argue it should be protected while it’s still a healthy ecosystem. BBC News
– A 24th annual report by the Natural Resources Defense Council found that 1 in 10 U.S. beaches are dangerously polluted and not safe for swimming. The Great Lakes ranked the highest for polluted beaches, followed by the Gulf Coast and New England. The Huffington Post
– The European Commission revealed in a review today that 41 percent of North East Atlantic stocks and 91 percent of Mediterranean stocks are overfished. The review outlined the Commission’s plans for next year’s fishing quotas, and agreed to rebuild fish stocks, phase out discards, and strengthen environmental protection. Oceana
– A satellite-tagged green sea turtle recently made history, swimming from the Cocos Island Marine National Park in Costa Rica and crossed into the Galapagos Marine Reserve in Ecuador. His migration is significant, suggesting a migratory ‘superhighway’ and connection between these two protected areas. National Geographic
– A new report found that Puget Sound orcas, also referred to as southern resident killer whales, are some of the most pollutant-contaminated marine mammals. Despite recovery efforts, this population is one of the most endangered, with 82 individuals known to exist as of 2013. The Associated Press
Long Read:
– One possible solution to the lionfish epidemic would be to eat them. Though a commercial market for this invasive species doesn’t yet exist, one New Orleans chef is hunting, cooking, and serving them. The Times-Picayune