As one of the first surfers riding the waves at Rabo de Peixe in the 80’s I lived the loss of a world class reef break due to the construction of the existing fishing harbor (which began in 1997) in that bay. Also, as an executive director of Surfrider Foundation Azores, I’m especially concerned about and involved in protecting the existing waves from the new project to enlarge the harbor.

My main concern is a world-class wave, a point break that breaks in the same bay. I am also worried about a smaller wave that was left behind by the reef break, which is excellent for beginners/intermediates, and a wave that the local children enjoy surfing, often with surfboards made out of garbage. As you can imagine this wave is very valuable for the kids here.

I believe that waves are a natural resource and heritage that should be preserved, if the project is properly availed then we are also making an important contribution to social and economic development, a very important factor for this community. It would be a great example of sustainable development if the preservation of wave quality and fishing development were considered equally in this project and in all the technical studies. Specific social and economic studies are also important to demonstrate the social and economic potential for the population to the government.

All these reasons combined were more than enough for me to become involved as a Keeper of the Coast. Let’s keep the waves breaking.