The Aquatic Horror That Is Marineland

When we seek to establish an enterprise, it is crucial that we ask ourselves not only CAN I do this-- but SHOULD I? What is it that I truly hope to achieve?

John Holer, who built Marineland in 1961, reflects a time when empathy and foresight were not yet considered as pillars of enterprise. Now, the disaster that he created is left in the hands of the people, to solve.

His surviving son Peter, as far as I can research, has a unique opportunity. While Marineland is in the grips of financial death, I am unable to find any evidence of the financial state of Peter, personally. Marineland's solutions of either exporting the belugas to China, or euthanasia, do not suggest they have grown to regard animal welfare as a duty...but if Peter is able-- in resources or influence, to aid in the creation of a Canadian sanctuary, it is my belief that he is morally obliged to do so. This is his opportunity to redefine his family's legacy and the lifestyle he enjoyed, as one of growth and the triumph of human compassion.

According to the CBC article dated Oct 10th-- the Vancouver Aquarium cannot take the belugas.

The Whale Sanctuary Project has proposed a site in Nova Scotia which could hold 10 and could potentially be developed over the next year or so if adjacent land owners come on board. (Nov 11th-- sanctuary has been approved)

And a sanctuary in Iceland is potentially able to hold 10--

Marineland is currently holding 30 belugas.

Experts assert that the result of release into the wild is likely death, but I would choose possibility over the certainty of euthanasia if left with no other choice. Yes, Marineland has set these animals up with considerable disadvantages, but if we trust nature's resilience, perhaps we can rediscover our own.