Turtle Treasures

Written by: Scott Thompson

Last week (week of July 14th) during a “liquid lunch” surf session in Sea Bright, I observed a mid - sized (12 to 14” shell size) sea turtle cruising within the lineup hopefully enjoying his or her “lunch “ as well. Needless to say I was thrilled with the visual and saw the turtle multiple times in the area during the hour or so in the water enjoying the water more than ever.

This is the first time in my 49 years of surfing that I have ever seen a turtle this close to the shore here in the Atlantic. Is it a good thing? I don’t know, maybe they should be further offshore, however I can indeed attest to the fact that it looked healthy and happy swimming vigorously in and around the breaking surf.

Will there be more? Let’s hope so. However, with all the pressure from outside interests to “explore” the oceans for “data” how can that disruption be positive for the turtles and their environment. Now more than ever we need the CLEAN OCEAN ZONE. Why? Be COZ ! The turtles and all marine life need us to advocate for them so the “data” gathers cannot drive them from their habitat for the good of a few pennies on someone’s spread sheet and account balance.

Call, email and connect with all your legislators and tell them the President and his Cabinet do NOT represent the people. They represent special interests that will sell out our natural ocean resources for a dollar. Is it really worth it in the end?