I was born in Vietnam, and it’s disappointing that I’ve never had the opportunity to assist conserving my country’s wildlife. Every year, chemical waste, dust, and pollution devastate Vietnam’s freshwater ecology. As the rainy season arrives, I’ve witnessed hundreds of fish dead all throughout the river in my city. When Cashes Ledge came to my attention, I was given the opportunity to act, create awareness, and defend it. I pray that no other species suffers the same fate. Located approximately 90 miles from the Massachusetts coast, Cashes Ledge is the highest portion of the underwater mountain range and is positioned in the middle of the Gulf of Maine. Cashes Ledge is a paradise where kelp fronds provide fish and crabs hide. There are sandy plains where sharks and octopuses hunt for prey concealed among the rocky slopes. This stunning geological structure generates unique ocean ecosystems where so many animals call home. The established protection at Cashes Ledge is not permanent, putting the many inhabitants of this kelp forest at risk. This is why I hope president Biden will protect this ecosystem. The permanent protection will allow whales, fish, and the ecological system to exist and grow in an environment free of pressure from fishing and other human activity.

VinhTienLoi Tran

Amherst

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