RALEIGH, N.C. (April 26, 2024) – The N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission is seeking public comments on its Sea Turtle Conservation Plan through May 24.
The plan will guide the agency’s efforts to maintain and increase populations of five species of sea turtles that nest on North Carolina beaches, primarily from May to August, and are declining in the state. All five species are federally and state listed as either endangered or threatened and need additional assistance to persist and thrive. They are:
The plan presents biological information, causes of decline, conservation goals and potential conservation actions for each sea turtle species.
View the plan and submit comments online.
After collecting and considering all public comments, Commission staff will present the draft plan to the Wildlife Commissioners for their approval at their June 6 business meeting. Once the plan is approved, the Commission and partners will use them as blueprints for conservation of these five species.
For questions about the Sea Turtle Conservation Plan or sea turtles in general, please email Sea Turtle Biologist Matthew Godfrey.
About the N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission
Since 1947, the N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission has been dedicated to the conservation and sustainability of the state’s fish and wildlife resources through research, scientific management, wise use and public input. The Commission is the state regulatory agency responsible for the enforcement of fishing, hunting, trapping and boating laws and provides programs and opportunities for wildlife-related educational, recreational and sporting activities.