Giving Sea Turtles A Safe Path Through Social Media and Outreach

About the Program

Category: County Resiliency (Best in Category)

Year: 2018

Twenty one miles of beaches in St Lucie County are critical nesting habitat for three species of threatened or endangered sea turtles. Unfortunately, activities of oceanfront residents and visitors can inadvertently harm sea turtles. Improper nighttime lighting can cause sea turtle disorientations and increased predation during nesting season (March 1 – November 15). Sea turtles can be entangled in beach furniture left out overnight. Dogs off leashes can dig up sea turtle nests and harm hatchlings. Sand castles and pits can entrap hatchlings. In 2016, the sea turtle working group was formed with the mission to promote sea turtle friendly practices on St Lucie County beaches through research, education and resource monitoring. This working group is comprised of city and county government officials, citizens and private sector biologists. The new social media and outreach program was conducted through the use of YouTube videos, Twitter, Facebook and other media platforms as well as innovative outreach such as public signage at beach dune crossovers and utility bill inserts. As a result, awareness has increased and sea turtle disorientations are at .59% which is second lowest in Florida.