Speaker: Emily R. Bernfeld, Sea Turtle Biologist

Dive into the biology and conservation of sea turtles and the important work of the Miami-Dade County Sea Turtle Conservation Program!

We'll explore the species and lifecycle of sea turtles that call Miami Beach home, highlighting their importance to marine ecosystems. Our discussion focuses on the challenges sea turtles face, including human impacts, and how our program addresses these issues through protective measures and conservation efforts. We'll also showcase the daily work of STCP biologists, who monitor nesting sites, gather crucial data on sea turtle populations, and engage the community in stewardship and education initiatives.

ABOUT: The Miami-Dade County Sea Turtle Conservation Program (STCP) was established in 1980 following the discovery of disoriented hatchlings along A1A in Miami Beach. Before this initiative, sea turtle nesting in the county was undocumented. With the implementation of the Endangered Species Act of 1973, the Parks Department and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission collaborated to establish the Sea Turtle Conservation Program, aimed at protecting all species of sea turtles that inhabit Miami-Dade beaches. Federal and state laws provide legal protections and permit our program to monitor sea turtle nests and respond to strandings, ensuring the well-being and survival of these protected species.