On the evening of May 9, one of the turtle trawlers associated with the Navarre Beach restoration project captured a sick loggerhead sea turtle. The turtle was lethargic, emaciated and had much of her body covered with barnacles and algae. The rescued loggerhead, named Harriet, was transported to the Gulfarium’s Sea Turtle C.A.R.E. Program in Fort Walton Beach for rehabilitation and Allen McDowell, curator of fish and invertebrates reports she is “…doing well and responding to treatment. She started eating on her own, which is a big milestone for her recovery.”
Turtle trawling is a common practice associated with hopper dredging operations, such as the Navarre Beach renourishment. Turtle trawling is conducted by dragging nets within the dredging area (borrow area) only. Any captured sea turtles are relocated further offshore to keep them away from potential harm. Turtle trawling will continue for the duration of the project. For questions about the beach renourishment process, contact County Engineer Roger Blaylock at 850-981-7100.
