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The Ocean Waves Sunglasses team had the distinct pleasure of spending May 13, 2023, at Hoces del Cabriel Natural Park, fly fishing with the remarkable crew of AEMS - Ríos con Vida. Known as "Rivers with Life," AEMS - Ríos con Vida is an outstanding organization committed to the conservation and restoration of rivers, especially those supporting native salmonid populations.
Guided by Pere Merino, the president of AEMS, we not only explored sustainable fishing practices but also gained insights into the rich ecosystems within Hoces del Cabriel. Pere generously shared his extensive knowledge, discussing the types of flies, insects, and natural food sources that fish in the park prefer. He also demonstrated how they create sustainable bait, underscoring AEMS’s commitment to eco-friendly practices in every aspect of their work.
Founded in 1979 by a group of conservation-minded anglers, AEMS - Ríos con Vida has been a beacon of river conservation, advocating for the protection of wild fish populations and their habitats against profit-driven interests. This mission is perfectly captured in their motto, which promotes a responsible, recreational ethic in river fishing.
Under Pere Merino’s leadership, AEMS - Ríos con Vida operates democratically with approximately 4,000 members who contribute to various committees, organized locally or autonomously. A National Board of Directors, elected biennially, oversees these committees to further the organization’s impactful work.
As we cast our fly fishing lines into the sparkling waters of Hoces del Cabriel, Pere explained each of the organization's key areas of focus. The Fishing Area promotes sustainable practices, particularly for native species, and supports fly fishing as a catch-and-release method, widely considered the least harmful to fish. The Legal Area works to combat threats to rivers and stands against projects that could harm these precious ecosystems. In the Environmental Area, studies on river health are conducted, management plans proposed, and habitat restoration efforts launched. Finally, the Communication Area works tirelessly to raise awareness of the inestimable value of rivers and their alarming deterioration.
As the day drew to a close, with the sun casting shimmering reflections on the water, we felt a profound appreciation for the work of AEMS - Ríos con Vida. Rivers are not mere waterways; they are vital ecosystems, teeming with life and contributing to economic vitality, human joy, and ecological balance. This experience left an indelible impact on us at Ocean Waves Sunglasses, enriching our connection to the natural world and deepening our admiration for those who dedicate themselves to its protection.
We are immensely grateful for the hospitality and enlightenment offered by Pere and the AEMS - Ríos con Vida team. We look forward to future partnerships, perhaps even creating a line of sustainable sunglasses inspired by this memorable experience.
So, the next time you step outside with your Ocean Waves Sunglasses, remember that each pair represents not only quality and style but also our commitment to preserving our beautiful planet. Stay tuned for more updates on our collaborations with environmentally conscious organizations like AEMS - Ríos con Vida.
