STERP

When specific weather events occur in the fall, STERP volunteers walk the beach to search in the seaweed piles for post hatchlings (aka “washbacks), in order to find and rescue them. In 2016 we had a major event following hurricane Mathew. Over 2000 were found along our beaches. In most cases they were found along the beaches and not in sea weed, (Sargassam) which was unusual.

Volunteers take the post hatchlings to designated drop-off locations. The volunteers will also educate the beach-going public on sea turtle’s do’s and don’ts, using Sea Turtle Education Cards.

Volunteers may assist with transporting sea turtles to rehab facilities at Brevard Zoo, Sea World, Ponce Inlet, Mote and other locations using either their own vehicle (must be enclosed) or our mini-van. We utilize STERP volunteers when we have other major events such as cold stuns and educational projects. Many of our volunteers have been added to the Stranding and Salvage Permit allowing them to work with all sea turtles and some are now members of the Board of Directors. This is also a great opportunity to involve the entire family. Training for this program needs to be completed annually.

This year’s training dates and locations are as follows:

May 13    Saturday     1 – 3pm            Satellite Beach Library

May 26    Friday         1-  3pm            Satellite Beach Library

May 27    Saturday     9:30 – 11:30 am  Cocoa Beach Library

May 30    Tuesday      5:30 – 7:30 pm    Cocoa Beach Library

TO REGISTER:  Click on the highlighted training location/date or go to https://www.signupgenius.com/go/5080D4EA9AA29AAFD0-sterp

To qualify for the STERP team, you must be a member of STPS, complete  the training annually and have taken a volunteer orientation class.  

This training is open to the public for education.  Authorization from Florida Wildlife Commission is required to legally participate in the rescue activities of STERP.