The sea is the source of all life. Turkey is surrounded by sparkling blue and green waters. Its seas are still clean, its shores still spotless. These waters provide a home for the Mediterranean seal. These creatures are at the top of the food chain, so their health is proof that the Mediterranean ecosystem is also healthy. The only way to maintain the health of the Mediterranean seal is to maintain the health of the entire ecosystem.
The Gate has a seal!
Since 1987, the SAD-AFAG (Underwater Research Society-Mediterranean Seal Research Group) has been doing just that. In 1997, it ran a project called "Adopt a Mediterranean Seal". In April of 2002, this project was revived. Its aim is to inform people about the seal and the dangers it faces. It will also raise funds to help protect the seals. This money will be used to fund projects in SAD-AFAG field offices. It will buy petrol to be used in boats to patrol caves as well as materials used in schools to educate children about the seals. You would be forgiven for thinking that you will adopt and care for a real seal. However, it is impossible to sponsor the care of a single seal. Instead, you will be helping to fund the upkeep and protection of the seal?s habitat. What could be more important than that?There are three categories in this adoption program. You can be a seal parent, a seal sibling or a seal friend. Whichever category you join, you will be sent a certificate saying that you have adopted a seal, as well as an adorable photo of a Mediterranean seal. For one year, you will also receive updates on projects relating to the seals via a brochure called "Mediterranean Traveller". You can also join the SAD-AFAG e-mail group to get more frequent updates. As a result, not only will you provide financial support to the seals but you will also learn about their lives. Individuals and corporations can adopt a seal. For example, we at The Gate have adopted our very own Mediterranean seal!
Every penny helps. No matter how much you are able to give, it will help protect Turkey?s shores and the Mediterranean seals that live on them. Why not join the effort to save these lovely creatures?
