Sea Shepherd: 40 Years

Established in 1977, Sea Shepherd Conservation Society is a non-profit marine wildlife conservation organization. Its mission is to end the destruction of habitat and slaughter of wildlife in the world's oceans, using direct-action tactics. SSCS was formally incorporated in Oregon in 1981, originating from the Earth Force Society in Vancouver. The original mandate of both organizations was to shut down illegal whaling and sealing operations, but Sea Shepherd later expanded its mission to include all marine wildlife. In 1978 the Society purchased its first ship and named it the Sea Shepherd. Its first mission was to sail to the ice floes of Eastern Canada to obstruct the killing of baby harp seals. The same year, the Sea Shepherd hunted down and rammed the notorious pirate whaler the Sierra in a Portugal harbor, ending its career as the scourge of the seas. Since then, Sea Shepherd has embarked on over 200 voyages. This book tells its story.