by L.S. Watts

Created on: June 30, 2009

The Sea Shepherd Conservation Society was established in 1977 by Paul Watson. Originally it was organized as Earth Force Society in Vancouver, British Columbia in Canada. In 1981, Sea Shepherd Conservation Society was formally incorporated in the state of Oregon in the United States.

It is a non-profit, international organization focused on marine life conservation. They will use inventive, direct-action approach to investigate and document illegal activities at sea. The world's oceans are considered a delicate ecosystem and Sea Shepherd is there to take direct action in protecting these ocean habitats and defending the marine life from being threatened. At first their goal was to shut down sealing operations as well as stop whaling practices. Now they have included all marine life under their protection.

In September 1978, the Sea Shepherd purchased their first ship. The Cleveland Armory of the Fund for Animals helped financially to purchase a British sea trawler named Westella. It was later named the Sea Shepherd. Its first mission was sailing the icy seas of Eastern Canada stop the annual killing of baby harp seals. A few months later, they were able to put the infamous pirate whaler ship, the Sierra, out of commission.

Since then, Sea Shepherd has launched over 200 missions. They continue to defend marine wildlife and the oceans they live in.

Get Involved On Shore

There are several ways to get involved with Sea Shepherd. The first option is to become an onshore volunteer. On shore volunteers assist in many valuable ways. As an onshore volunteer, you could start an outreach program by educating others about current issues. This could be setting up an information table at a local event, organize a benefit, host house parties, distribute Sea Shepherd information to individuals of interest, or even participate in protests organized by Sea Shepherd.

Another option for getting involved with this organization is through media awareness. As an on shore volunteer, you could contact your local TV and radio stations as well as newspapers and magazines to educate the public about the ongoing issues at sea and how everyone can take part.

Sea Shepherd also needs help with office work. This could be a position at their main headquarters, satellite offices, or even clerical work from home. They are always looking for people with strong communication skills and as well as general clerical and organizational skills.

It takes several resources to operate each campaign.

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