02-05-2025
N.C. Aquarium at Fort Fisher shares ways to protect sea turtles
KURE BEACH, N.C. (WNCT) — With sea turtle nesting season beginning in May, the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher (NCAFF) gives ways we can help protect them.
'The Aquarium team is passionate about sea turtle conservation, and we hope that our work in protecting these species inspires the community to find their own way to protect them,' Education Curator, NCAFF, Karissa Bearer said. 'It's as simple as turning off your beachfront lights, taking a reusable bag to the grocery store and refusing the single-use plastic bag or never leaving home without your reusable water bottle.'
Here are some ways to participate in sea turtle conservation:
Sea turtles often confuse marine debris for food. Protect sea turtles by refusing, reducing, reusing and recycling plastics.
Never release balloons which are a choking hazard for many animals. Pop them and put them in the trash instead.
Sky lanterns are just as dangerous as balloons because they are flammable and often end up in the water as well. Try alternatives such as bubbles or planting trees in celebration.
Pick up trash wherever you find it, especially on the beach. Then share that data with scientists studying marine plastics: Marine Debris Program.
Organize a trash pickup around your school and playground. Remember plastic bags can blow a long way.
Organize or participate in a beach cleanup. One great opportunity is this weekend – the NC Aquarium at Fort Fisher May the 4th Beach Cleanup!
Write a letter to the editor or local government officials about the dangers of marine debris.
Many communities are considering plastic bag bans. Is yours? This is another way to get involved as a community.
For more information, visit Sea Turtle Conservation. The Aquarium team is always ready to talk with visitors and answer any questions about sea turtles. Online reservations are required to visit the Aquarium at NCAFF Tickets.
Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
