Volunteer Q&A: Beach Cleanup, STERP and other programs

So you’d like to volunteer with the Sea Turtle Preservation Society? We’re here to help you get started. This week, we are continuing to feature information about each of our programs and the volunteer opportunities available. Please take a look and find what interests you, then either complete a volunteer application online at seaturtlespacecoast.org or attend our Volunteer Fair from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Feb. 22, 2020, in Room 109 next to our Turtle House at 111 S. Miramar Ave. in Indialantic, FL, to get started.

If none of these programs, or the ones posted earlier in the week, are what you’re looking to do, please check our website and our Volunteer Voice newsletter for other volunteer opportunities.

Beach Cleanups

What type of program is this?

Our monthly beach cleanups are done in partnership with Keep Brevard Beautiful. Once a month, STPS volunteers clean up the beaches at Coconut Point Park and Cherie Down Park.

What would I do as a volunteer?

 Volunteers will pick up trash and debris on the beaches.

What is the time commitment?

 Our monthly beach cleanups take place on the first Saturday after the first Thursday of each month. The events begin at 8 a.m. and generally are done by 10 a.m.

Are there any special requirements?

This is one STPS program that everyone may participate in, whether they are an STPS member or volunteer or not.

Are there any costs associated?

No additional costs. Equipment such as buckets, trash pickers, gloves and bags are provided.

Who would I contact for more information or with any questions?

 For questions or more information, contact beachcleanup@seaturtlespacecoast.org.

Sea Turtle Emergency Response Program (STERP)

What type of program is this?

This program falls under the stranding permit and allows trained volunteers to work under a letter of authorization from FWC to search for washback sea turtles after storms and other wind events.

What would I do as a volunteer?

 When an emergency event is called, volunteers walk the beach to search for washback sea turtles and transport them to collection points.

What is the time commitment?

The time commitment varies; if an event is declared, volunteers may search during whatever time that they have available. Storm events usually happen late in the summer or fall.

Are there any special requirements?

To participate in the STERP program, you must be an STPS member and have completed Turtle Talk 101 and Volunteer Orientation. Annual training held in May and June specific to the STERP program also is required to be considered for the LOA.

Are there any costs associated?

There are no additional costs associated with this program.

Who would I contact for more information or with any questions?

 For questions or more information, contact er@seaturtlespacecoast.org.

Port Kiosk volunteers

What type of program is this?

Our port kiosk is open Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays; it offers merchandise for sale as well as educational displays. Volunteers willing to talk turtle and sell merchandise are needed for these days.

What would I do as a volunteer?

Volunteers willing to talk turtle and sell merchandise are needed for the kiosk.

What is the time commitment?

For the kiosk, each day has a morning and afternoon shift. Volunteers may sign up for one shift a month or one a week, depending on availability.

Are there any special requirements?

As with other volunteer opportunities, Turtle Talk 101 and Volunteer Orientation are required. For the kiosk, additional training at the kiosk will also be needed.

Are there any costs associated?

No additional costs.  

Who would I contact for more information or with any questions?

For questions or more information, contact volunteer@seaturtlespacecoast.org.