14 DAY TRIAL // A few days ago, we reported on Australia's plans to create the world's largest network of marine reserves. It now seems that the Sea Shepherd Conservation Society freely and willingly wishes to lend a helping hand.
Thus, the afore-mentioned international non-profit organization volunteered to provide the Australian government with much-needed physical resources – such as ships – and valuable pieces of advice.
In the end, they hope that by working together they can put an end to poaching, overfishing and other similar illegal activities, which might result in damage being done to the Coral Sea marine reserve.
Earth Times reports that Paul Watson, the founder of SSCS, explained how “Sea Shepherd is prepared to work with any government or local agency to protect their waters.”
The same source also offers us an insight into the Australian government's opinion regarding such a potential partnership.
Thus, former MP Peter Lindsay argued that “There's no point in having a marine park unless you can patrol it and police it.”
Naturally, should such a collaboration be agreed upon, the SSCS will have to work together with members of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority and/or with other representatives of various Australian environmental or state organizations.
The latter might be particularly interested in such teams being formed, given the fact that SSCS is known for not sparing any money when it comes to green-oriented campaigns.
The investments they made in the past include purchasing a $4 million (roughly €3,2 million) patrol boat, having vessel identification systems installed, properly training crew members, and also making sure they have some patrol dogs as part of the team.
It is our personal opinion that, should the Australian government decide to work together with the SSCS, the Coral Sea marine reserve will be as safe and as sound as possible.