### Investigation into Turtle Mortality by Navy Vessel Confirmed: Governor Castro
**August 27, 2024**
**TJGringo.com**
Amid protests from over 2,000 fishermen in the Ulloa Gulf opposing the involvement of a foreign NGO, Sea Shepherd, Governor Víctor Castro Cosío has reaffirmed his support for local fishers. He confirmed that the necessary study on the mortality of the yellow turtle in this region will be conducted by Mexican researchers using a vessel from the Mexican Navy (Semar).
In May, various protests took place where fishermen requested the governor and other state authorities to urge the federal government to withdraw Sea Shepherd’s vessel. The protestors explained that stringent regulations have been imposed since studies began on the mass deaths of the yellow turtles in 2013, severely impacting those involved in fishing.
They emphasized that studies have already exonerated the coastal fishers from being responsible for the turtle deaths, yet no improvements have been made for their sector. They feared further restrictions with Sea Shepherd’s involvement.
After several discussions, federal authorities informed the state government of their decision to utilize national institutions for conducting the study. Governor Castro will now include Semar in this investigative effort.
“Our coastlines are rich not only in fishing resources but also in the culture of those who have relied on the sea for decades, both in the Gulf of California and the Pacific Ocean,” acknowledged Castro Cosío. “The fishermen of Baja California Sur have been exemplified for their practices from one end to the other. This is why we stand with them and why I opposed the entry of a foreign vessel once they explained the situation to me,” he added.
Governor Castro emphasized the importance of protecting the nation’s sovereignty and local fishing practices while also noting the necessity of obtaining a positive certification from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) of the United States. This certification is essential to guarantee that the fishing practices in the Ulloa Gulf meet international sustainability standards.
“There were some doubts initially, but they have been resolved now. Our colleagues who work not just in Ulloa Gulf but across the state are aware of this,” Castro concluded.
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### Secondary Article: Environmental Concerns and Fishing Regulations
**August 27, 2024**
**TJGringo.com**
**Increased Pressure on Fishing Sector amid Environmental Concerns**
In recent years, the fishing sector in the Ulloa Gulf has faced increasing pressure due to environmental concerns, particularly the conservation of the yellow turtle. Strict regulations introduced to protect the species have, according to local fishers, hindered their ability to operate effectively.
Despite several studies indicating that the local fishers are not to blame for the turtle mortality, regulatory measures have remained stringent. The involvement of international environmental organizations like Sea Shepherd has added to the tension, with fishers fearing further restrictions on their livelihoods.
**National Response and Future Outlook**
The federal government’s recent decision to conduct necessary studies using national resources, including the Mexican Navy, marks a significant development. Governor Víctor Castro’s assurance of local support aims to balance the need for environmental conservation with the protection of local fishing traditions.
Securing a positive certification from NOAA remains a crucial goal. This certification would help ensure that Mexican fishing practices align with international sustainability standards, potentially alleviating some of the pressures on local fishers while addressing environmental concerns.
As the investigation proceeds, the outcome will likely impact future regulatory frameworks and the delicate equilibrium between conservation efforts and the fishing industry’s welfare in the Ulloa Gulf region.