This paper presents the results of the impact of conservation policies on the territory and population of the vaquita marina (Phocoena sinus) in San Felipe, Baja California, one of the fishing communities affected by the 2015 fishing ban.
The objective of the study is to identify changes in land cover and land use, as well as in the economic characteristics of the population, complemented by an analysis of local perceptions regarding restrictions on access to coastal fishing. Satellite imagery from 2014 to 2024 was interpreted to identify territorial changes. Additionally, data from the 2010 and 2020 population and housing censuses and hotel occupancy statistics from 2014 to 2019 were analyzed. A survey was conducted to assess the population’s perception of the consequences of the ban and the prohibition of fishing gear.
The results include a decrease in the number of permitted boats, greater densification of human settlements, an increase in hotel occupancy, increased participation of women in the labor market, and improvements in housing characteristics and amenities. Five years after the ban was implemented, no negative impact on the population has been identified.
