Safe, at last. Photo: Claudia Boily
On June 21, 2014, people both from the local and international communities, joined together to honor Bahía de Todos Santos being declared the sixth World Surfing Reserve.
Over 200 people flocked to Ensenada, Baja California, to celebrate the official designation. Carlos Hernandez and Gary Linden were both on hand to share their thoughts on the importance of the dedication. “The presence at the ceremony from every sector of the local community was an indication of the vast, overall success of this project and its future,” said Linden, legendary shaper, Big Wave World Tour Founder, and Isla Todos Santos pioneer. Representatives of the City of Ensenada, the Secretariat of Natural Resources (SEMARNAT), Secretariat of Fisheries (SERNAPESCA), the United States Consul General, ProNatura Noroeste, WILDCOAST/COSTASALVAJE, and Surf ENS were also on hand to share their excitement for and thoughts on the dedication.
Numerous factors contributed to the official dedication, including, but not limited to its high quality waves, distinct environmental characteristics, surf history, and community support. For both Mexico and the international surfing community, this dedication brings honor and recognition to San Miguel, which is credited as the birthplace of Mexican surf culture. Salsipuedes, San Miguel, 3M’s, Stacks and the big wave spot, Killers, on Isla Todos Santos are all included within the reserve boundaries.
Government officials and local authorities in attendance closed the event by signing the Reserve Stewardship Plan, an agreement to continually support outlined conservation goals. The first step in this plan will see Save The Waves, ProNatura Noroeste and the World Surfing Reserve in Bahía de Todos Santos working together to launch a media campaign to help create first state park in the state of Baja California. The skate park will protect the critical watershed at Arroyo San Miguel and the sand and cobblestones that create the fabled San Miguel surf spot ensuring continuous conservation for the newest World Surfing Reserve.
Joining the honorable ranks of Santa Cruz and Malibu, Ericeira in Portugal, Manly Beach in Australia and Huanchaco in Peru, the dedication of Bahía de Todos Santos, Mexico, as a World Surfing Reserve ensures its importance in the past and continuous care for the future.
