San Miguel perfect waves threatened by a Marina Project

<sup>Source: Save the Waves Coalition

Norhern Baja's coast is once again in danger, this time involving a marina project at world famous point break San Miguel, a barreling right that has earned its reputation as one of North America's best. This world-class wave has not only been the site of numerous surf-contests and brought millions of dollars to the local economy, but it has also held enormous historical importance to Mexico's surfing. Save the Waves environmental director Carla Graziosi explains, " Thousands of surfers - both local and international - use this recreational zone every year, and yet, once again, developers and the government have looked passed this "sub-culture" to instill economic growth for an elite few - who are not the least bit concerned about the negative environmental and economic impact their project will likely have on the local community."

Pacifica Bay, a multi-million dollar resort development company, is joining forces with the Sauzal harbor to extend the original harbor approximately 185 acres further out into the coastal waters, which will engulf world famous San Miguel point and obliterate the waves. Local surfer and oceanographer, Jose Puig stated, "The area will be completely engulfed by the marina, ruining the natural coast." This $370 million dollar project, titled "Marina San Miguel," will harbor 550 yachts, and is being brought to the table along with a 21 acre five star resort proposed by Pacifica Bay http://www.discoverpacificabay.com/

Save the Waves environmental research director, Christine Garcia points out, "This project will not only negatively affect the surf and environment, but also the national economy," claims Garcia, "due to the devastating impact that this marina will have on ecotourism, and the destruction of San Miguel's waves and oceanic biodiversity."

Mexican surf community has come together to form non-profit "Vision Costera" to protect their spot. Save the Waves and Surfrider are also joining the fight to put a stop to the marina, as it would not only bury the wave but also would ruin one of the last remaining public beaches on the north side of Ensenada Bay. Please join the effort by signing our letter addressed to the local governors of Ensenada and national representatives of Mexico by signing onto: http://www.savethewaves.org/</sup>



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