ACS is primarily concerned about the health of marine mammal populations, but we also place great emphasis on protection of marine ecosystems because we recognize the interdependence of all marine life. As you know, Laguna San Ignacio is one of the few breeding grounds available to gray whales occurring in the Pacific. We applaud the Mexican Government for their previous concern regarding the need to place the only breeding grounds for these whales under strict regulation. To take a step backward from this philosophy would be to disregard all the previous efforts on behalf of gray whales. Our organization is concerned about the possible direct impacts the proposed saltworks would have on gray whales, as well as the indirect impacts to the lagoon ecosystem.
Mexican fishermen are no longer able to make a living there.
We are also concerned about the potential harm to the mangrove estuary located in the lagoon. Salt brine pollution, diesel oil spills, construction, and operation noise all have the potential to negatively impact mangroves. This estuary is a vital destination and resting area for a variety of bird species, including several endangered species. Degradation of this habitat would certainly have a dramatic impact on the overall health of the lagoon. This proposal is incompatible with the Mexican government s stated conservation objectives for this habitat and is incompatible with the area s designation as a United Nations Biosphere Reserve and its proximity to the lagoon.