by Jennifer Valiulis and Carol Cramer-Burke
FEBRUARY 25, 6 – 7:00 PM
Leatherback Turtle Talk Primer
Sandy Point National Wildlife Refuge
Experts from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and SEA will share the most up-to-date information on the status of Leatherback turtles nesting on St. Croix, share ways that everyone can help protect them, and explain what you should do if you see a nesting sea turtle on land or hatchling sea turtles emerging from a nest!
Leatherback turtles are the largest of all the turtles weighing in at an average of 600-800 pounds-although they can reach up to a ton! These ancient behemoths are endangered, but we are fortunate to have them nesting on several beaches around St. Croix, with the largest concentration of activity occurring at Sandy Point National Wildlife Refuge on the West End.
Since 1981, researchers have studied the annual leatherback nesting activity at the Sandy Point Refuge, making this one of the longest running sea turtle research programs in the world. More recently, SEA has conducted regular monitoring of the Leatherback nesting activity at the East End’s Southgate Coastal Reserve on the island’s East End. These long-term monitoring projects have greatly contributed to the knowledge and conservation of Leatherback turtles worldwide.
MARCH 20, 8:30 – 10:30 AM
Entry-level SUP Clinic
Chenay Bay Beach Resort
SEA and Paddlesurf St. Croix will team up to offer an entry level SUP lesson at Chenay Bay Beach Resort. Participants will rotate through two segments-a basic paddleboard class and a guided beach walk at SEA’s Southgate Coastal Reserve (adjacent to the Resort). The cost of the activity is $10 for SEA members and $15 for non-members. Age limit is 12 and up and we can take up to 24 participants. Please pre-register with SEA to reserve your spot!
Tried SUP (Stand Up Paddle) yet? This fast-growing sport originated in Hawaii but is spreading far and wide. The sport evolved from the ancient practice of standing up to paddle rafts and canoes along rivers and coastal waters. SUP is a great core workout and a beautiful way to enjoy the Caribbean Sea. While paddling, you have a birds’ eye view of everything along the coastline and in the ocean below including colorful fish, interesting marine life, maybe even a sea turtle!
The St. Croix Environmental Association (SEA) offers regular, low-cost activities that
provide opportunities for everyone to explore the outdoors and learn about the natural
wonders of St. Croix. Formed in 1986, SEA’s mission is ‘To promote the conservation of environmental resources, provide education and advocate for environmentally responsible actions that benefit St. Croix.’
(SEA) St. Croix Environmental Association
[email protected]
Facebook: stxenvironmental
www.stxenvironmental.org
340-773-1989
