Boaters Beware: Turtles Need Slowdown

A new initiative called 'Boaters For Turtles' is being rolled out this month in Destin, Florida, aimed at protecting sea turtles in local waters. The campaign will feature educational signs and QR codes at three key boat ramps, with rental companies also briefing customers. The focus is on voluntary protection zones within Destin Harbor, East Pass, and near Crab Island, areas frequented by both boaters and sea turtles.

This effort comes after a 2025 Florida State University study highlighted the severe impact of boat strikes on sea turtle populations. The study found that one in four sea turtles found dead or injured in Florida had been struck by a boat, and a staggering 98% of these turtles did not survive. Signs will be placed at Liza Jackson Park, Marler Park, and Joe's Bayou, alongside outreach from rental companies, to remind boat operators to reduce speed and be vigilant for turtles, which are often difficult to see from the surface.