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World Surfing Reserves


World Surfing Reserves (WSR) is a program launched in 2009 by the non-governmental organization Save the Waves Coalition aimed at protecting global surf habitats. The program proactively identifies, designates and enshrines international waves, surf zones and surrounding environments, protecting them from the threat of development.

The mission of the WSR program is to gain international recognition and support for wave and coastal protection around the world by creating a global network of designated surfing reserves. WSR also recognizes environmental, social, cultural and economic benefits of waves.

Leaders in the international surfing, environmental and scientific communities launched WSR at the Value of Waves Roundtable held in Half Moon Bay, California. WSR was created in conjunction with National Surfing Reserves Australia, and has established partnerships with the International Surfing Association (ISA), and Stanford University's Center for Responsible Travel (CREST).

World Surfing Reserves is led by an international executive committee and vision council. It is the responsibility of these groups to govern the program and make the final wave selections. For a specific surf site to enter WSR, the region must have exceptional and consistent surf, along with a rich history and culture of surfing, as well as strong community support.

In August 2009, WSR called for nominations from all national surfing federations. More than 150 sites were nominated from 34 countries. WSR eventually plans to induct 30-40 surf breaks around the world. The program has gained a substantial amount of positive feedback and support from the sport's leaders, including Kelly Slater. You can also read Drew Kampion's World Surfing Reserves Manifesto.

Vision Council: Fernando Aguerre, Will Henry, Jim Moriarty, Tony Butt, Terry Gibson, Len Materman, Miles Walsh, Wallace J. Nichols, Steve Hawk, Wayne “Rabbit” Bartholomew, Tiago Pires, Greg Long, Mark Massara, Chris LaFrankie, Chad Nelsen, Neil Lazarow, Brad Farmer, Manolo Lozano, Juca De Barros, Drew Kampion, Professor Andy Short, Professor Ben Finney.

Executive Committee: Professor Andy Short, Brad Farmer, Drew Kampion, Will Henry, Dean LaTourrette.

There are currently nine surfing reserves across the world.

In partnership with National Surfing Reserves Australia, the International Surfing Association (ISA), and Stanford University’s Center for Responsible Travel (CREST), Save The Waves Coalition inducted Malibu Surfrider Beach as the first World Surfing Reserve site. The official enshrinement ceremony took place on October 9, 2010. The date indicated the commencement of the commitment by the local and international communities to protect and preserve Malibu as an iconic surf site.


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