Cheers to the talented winners of the Keys Kids Art Contest! A heartfelt thank you to everyone who poured their creativity into this event. We had a fantastic awards ceremony at Artists in Paradise (Big Pine Key), where the air was buzzing with excitement. Imagine the joy as families gathered to admire their young artists' creations, proudly showcased in the window! The magic doesn't end there – you have the entire month to witness these masterpieces firsthand. Make sure to swing by and soak in the artistic brilliance! You can also view the winners online HERE.

GIVE THE GIFT OF BABY SEA TURTLES!

Surprise! We're barely catching our breath from the holidays, and Cupid is already fluttering around. Instead of the usual chocolates and flowers, how about something extraordinary this Valentine's Day? Picture this: adopting a sea turtle nest! Wrap your love in the shell of conservation and give the gift of supporting these incredible creatures. Your act of kindness won't just brighten someone's day; it'll also be a beacon for our precious marine life. Join us in this meaningful journey — adopt a sea turtle nest today and be part of something truly special!

https://save-a-turtle-org.square.site/shop/adoptions/4

Single use plastics are so over! Let's start the new year

with change for the animals, the people and the planet.

Millions of marine animals such as whales, dolphins, seals, fish, sharks, turtles, and birds are injured and killed each year due to plastic debris in the ocean. Now imagine the millions of animals affected in and near our rivers and streams.

Let's be the voice for these voiceless creatures by promoting a single-use plastic-free world. Together, we can make a splash for change!

(Reposted with permission from our friends at Coastlove)

The Annual Big Pine & Lower Keys Nautical Expo will be held on Saturday & Sunday, January 13th and 14th, on the Chamber grounds at 31020 Overseas Highway, MM 31 on Big Pine Key from 8AM - 4PM on Saturday and from 8AM - 2PM on Sunday. Save-A-Turtle will be there with turtle-y amazing turtle gear so come by and talk turtles with us!

Large loggerhead female deceased after boat strike. Red arrow indicates start of propeller strike.

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

Save-A-Turtle Board Meeting

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

Monday, January 8th

6:30 - 8:30PM

Zoom Link

Meeting ID: 829 7023 2616

Passcode: 210787

One tap mobile

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

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

Below are the elected members of the 2023 Save-A-Turtle Board

(2024 elections will take place during the January meeting)

President: Harry Appel

Vice President: Heather Skelley

Treasurer: Dawn Bowles

Secretary: Sara Casey

Board Member: Scott Cator

Board Member: Jennifer DeMaria

Board Member: Alyssa Gruebele

Board Member: Chelsea Oatman

Technical Advisor: Sue Schaf