Turtle Tracks Newsletter


December 2024

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Island Art Festival

Last weekend, the vibrant energy of the Florida Keys came alive at the annual Island Art Festival, where art lovers, locals, and visitors gathered to celebrate the creativity and spirit of the community. Save-A-Turtle was thrilled to be part of it. It was the perfect day to not only support local artists but also raise awareness about the conservation of sea turtles and all other marine life!


The festival also featured live music, local food vendors, and plenty of opportunities for visitors to connect with the area’s rich culture and natural wonders. It was a perfect reminder of how the Florida Keys continue to inspire both artistic expression and environmental stewardship.

Next up - Nautical Expo!

Get ready to shell-ebrate sea turtles with Save-A-Turtle! We’re thrilled to return to the Nautical Expo, hosted by the Lower Keys Chamber of Commerce.


Join us for an engaging and fun-filled day as we share fascinating insights about these incredible creatures. Whether you're curious about turtle conservation or just looking for a great way to spend the day, we’ve got you covered!


While you're there, don’t miss out on:

  • Delicious food to fuel your adventures
  • Unique shopping opportunities to find nautical treasures
  • A chance to connect with the community


Mark your calendar, and come be a part of the fun! 

Holiday Shopping Made Easy!

Searching for a unique gift that truly makes an impact? How about adopting a baby sea turtle, purchasing one of our branded insulated Pirani reusable cups or CHECK OUT OUR NEW SHIRTS! Not only will this purchase support crucial conservation efforts, but it also creates an unforgettable gift experience.


Dive in and make a difference today!



SHOP HERE!

2025 Board Nominations are OPEN

Do you, or someone you know, love sea turtles and want to play a vital role in their conservation? Save-A-Turtle of the Florida Keys (SAT) is now accepting nominations for 2025 Officers and Board Members!


Who Can Be Nominated?


You can nominate yourself or someone else who meets the following criteria:

  • A passion for sea turtles!
  • A commitment to conservation and eco-friendly initiatives.
  • A desire to get involved in helping sea turtles and educating the public about the challenges they face.
  • The ability to work collaboratively as part of a team.
  • Availability to attend monthly meetings.
  • Willingness to participate in special events (approximately 5–6 per year).
  • Reside in the Florida Keys.


Positions Open for Nomination:

  • President
  • Vice President
  • Treasurer
  • Secretary
  • Board Members


Important Dates:

  • Nomination Deadline: 11:59 PM on Monday, December 16th, 2024.
  • Voting: Takes place during the January 6th, 2025 Board Meeting.
  • Service Term: Runs through January 2026.


How to Nominate:

  • Submit your nomination along with the nominee’s phone number or email address. All nominees will be contacted to confirm their interest in joining the SAT board.



Don’t miss this chance to make a meaningful impact on sea turtle conservation. Let’s work together to protect these incredible creatures and their habitats!


Submit all nominations here.

WE CAN ALL HELP!

Recent boat strike victim! Red arrow indicates start of strike wound.

It's an all too common occurrence when boats and marine animals meet on the water... boat strikes! Sadly, we receive calls on these occurrences FAR TOO OFTEN.


One way that you can help protect marine life when you’re out enjoying the waterways is to have a designated marine animal spotter on board whenever possible. Somebody that is looking out constantly for the dolphins, manatees and sea turtles that may be found in our waterways.

Additionally, please make sure you’re following slow speed and no wake signs.



If you encounter an injured marine animal while you’re enjoying your boating time or out on the beach in Florida, please call the FWC Wildlife Alert Hotline at 888-404-FWCC (3922).

Outreach poster developed by NOAA Fisheries and the Hawai'i Division of Boating and Ocean Recreation

Outreach poster developed by NOAA Fisheries and the Hawai'i Division of Boating and Ocean Recreation

January 2025 Board Meeting

Save-A-Turtle Board Meeting

(meeting link is static and good for each monthly meeting)

Monday, January 6th

6:30 - 8:30PM

Zoom Link

Meeting ID: 829 7023 2616

Passcode: 210787

One tap mobile

+13052241968,,82970232616#,,,,*210787# US

+16469313860,,82970232616#,,,,*210787# US


2024 Save-A-Turtle Board Members


President: Heather Skelley

Vice President / Treasurer: Dawn Bowles

Secretary: Scott Cator

Board Member: Gentrie Billbrough

Board Member: Jennifer DeMaria

Board Member: Alyssa Gruebele

Board Member: Chelsea Oatman

Board Member: Dave Wiggins

Board Member: Jana Wiggins


Technical Advisor: Harry Appel

Like Learning about Sea Turtles?


If you like learning new things about sea turtles you should like, follow and share our social media platforms! We are on Facebook and Instagram! Follow along all year to learn some cool facts about turtles but also what you can do for the environment that we all share!
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Report Sick, Injured or Dead Sea Turtles in Florida

Call FWCC at 888-404-FWCC (3922)

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