What an extraordinary first quarter for the programs and staff of Eco-Alianza. From the interactions with the students from University of Notre Dame to the return and celebration of the historic Western Flyer, the scope and reach of our educational and scientific programs continues to grow. It’s our greatest pleasure to inspire and engage the next generations of environmental caretakers – through scientific discoveries, artistic exploration, and physical participation and observation.

This edition of “Soundings” details many of our achievements in our various programs, along with the announcement of an additional strategic alliance with Paz del Alma Ochoa Amador, the Mayor of Loreto, a partnership to work on environmental projects. We hope you enjoy journeying with us as we share our progress and outreach.

We are proud of our work, and are able to build and expand Eco-Alianza because of supporters and donors, such as yourself. Your continued funding makes our work possible: the dream of a sustainable future and livelihood for the City and environs of the Loreto we treasure.

The visit of the Western Flyer to Loreto was a resounding success that left a meaningful impact on our community. We would like to express our heartfelt thanks to our donors, especially Kathy and Chuck Mitchell and Linda and Tony Kinninger, whose generous support during the fundraising events made this unique experience possible. Special thanks also go to Marina Puerto Escondido for hosting the event, the Western Flyer Foundation for their continuous collaboration and dedication and to our Sister City, San Buenaventura, California.

Thanks to this initiative, dozens of local students and teachers experienced a transformative educational opportunity. Through guided tours, scientific workshops, and interactive activities, they learned firsthand about the history and mission of the Western Flyer: a fishing boat reborn as a floating laboratory for science, ecological restoration, and inspiration. This visit not only connected our community with a rich scientific and cultural legacy but also reaffirmed our commitment to environmental education and the sustainable development of Loreto.

The Loreto City Council, led by Paz del Alma Ochoa Amador, signed a partnership agreement with Eco-Alianza de Loreto to work on environmental protection projects. The signing ceremony took place at the Community Center for the Environment (CenCoMA), Eco-Alianza’s headquarters.

The agreement aims to contribute to social and environmental well-being in the coastal, marine, and terrestrial environments of Loreto, Baja California Sur. This includes conducting analyses, research, and activities focused on environmental conservation, prevention and control of water, air, and soil pollution, as well as preserving the ecological balance of watersheds and aquifers. It also includes the development and implementation of environmental education and outreach programs.

Mayor Ochoa Amador was excited about working with Eco-Alianza and highlighted the importance of this partnership for the community’s well-being. She emphasized that strong cooperation between the City Council and local organizations is essential for sustainable development. “This partnership will help us protect our environment and serve our citizens better. We expect great results from this collaboration.