POINT PLEASANT, NJ – Sea Turtle Recovery (STR) announced a milestone—100 sea turtles have been successfully released back to the ocean since the opening of their hospital at Essex County Turtle Back Zoo just seven years ago.
This nonprofit organization aims to raise awareness that while the 100th sea turtle’s release is a significant milestone, it also marks the beginning of continued efforts to protect these magnificent creatures.
Co-Executive Officer Bill Deerr emphasizes the positive impact each sea turtle has on the population, and releasing their 101st rescued and recovered sea turtle marks the start of a new chapter in their conservation journey.
This milestone sheds light on the urgent need for help that threatened and endangered sea turtles face.
Prior to the establishment of Sea Turtle Recovery’s hospital, sick and injured sea turtles had to be transported outside of New Jersey for long-term care, putting their condition at greater risk. In 2016, Essex County Executive Joseph N. DiVincenzo, Jr., extended the offer of a state-of-the-art hospital at Essex County Turtle Back Zoo to Sea Turtle Recovery, enabling them to begin their vital mission.
DiVincenzo expresses pride in partnering with Sea Turtle Recovery, as the hospital at Turtle Back Zoo remains the only sea turtle hospital in the state. This collaboration highlights their commitment to environmental conservation and the protection of species diversity and the oceans’ health.
New Jersey is home to four of the world’s seven sea turtle species—Kemp’s Ridley, Loggerhead, Leatherback, and Green Sea Turtles—which frequent the state’s coast during the warm summer months. As these species are threatened and endangered, Sea Turtle Recovery plays a crucial role in their population’s recovery.
Deerr said the critical ecological role of sea turtles, from supporting the health of sea grass beds to enriching soil for dune grasses that reduce beach erosion.
By safeguarding sea turtles, they are not only preserving a healthy ocean ecosystem but also positively impacting the lives of countless others.
The 101st sea turtle, named Butterscotch, is set to make its return to the ocean on Point Pleasant Beach near Jenkinson’s Aquarium during the week of August 6th (exact date depending on weather and tides). Sea Turtle Recovery relies on sea turtle adoptions to sustain their nonprofit, and they invite the public to consider adopting Butterscotch through their website.
Those interested can also visit Sea Turtle Recovery inside Turtle Back Zoo in West Orange, NJ, to witness the incredible work being done. Updates and additional information can be found on their website seaturtlerecovery.org and on their social media pages.