April 22nd is Earth Day; an annual event to demonstrate support for environmental protection! We are celebrating Earth Day by protecting our beaches, and our wildlife!
Did you know that our coast is home to endangered sea turtles? Nesting season runs from May-October and with the number of annual beachgoers, it is important we spread the message so you can play your part in environmental protection!
Here are things you can do to protect our beaches and the sea turtles!
- LEAVE NO TRACE! Take all of your belongings and trash with you when you leave the beach.
- Prevent all lights from illuminating the beach.
- Use only Sea Turtle friendly flashlights at night. (Flashlights with red film covers)- otherwise, sea turtles become disoriented on their crawl back to the surf.
- Fill in your sand holes- sand holes can create obstacles for the sea turtles.
- Don’t touch or interfere with the sea turtles- all species of marine turtles are protected by the Endangered Species Act. It is against the law to touch, harass, interfere or interact with sea turtles without a permit. (South Walton Turtle Watch)
- Reduce plastic consumption.