CHARLOTTE COUNTY, Fla. (July 15, 2025) – Charlotte County Natural Resources is excited to announce the launch of the Sea Turtle Lighting Recognition Program, a pilot program designed to honor the outstanding efforts of our coastal community in protecting nesting sea turtles and their hatchlings.
“Staff works hard every year to send out preseason material to all residents in Charlotte County’s sea turtle lighting zone to help prepare and educate the residents and renters about our upcoming nesting seasons here on our beaches,” said Alexandria Grant, Environmental Specialist with Charlotte County. “Staff creates and distributes brochures, flyers, window clings, light reader cards and more to help make interactive and fun ways to keep the community aware of issues we face during sea turtle nesting season.”
Natural Resources staff have been working closely with beachfront condos, businesses, and residents to reduce lighting violations that can disorient sea turtles, helping ensure the highest number of hatchlings make it safely to the ocean.
This year, one commercial property on Englewood Beach and one residential condo on Manasota Key that demonstrate compliance with sea turtle lighting requirements will be awarded a Sea Turtle Lighting Recognition Certificate. These properties must be located within Charlotte County’s designated lighting zone and may be nominated based on inspections and compliance records.
Properties that have partnered with the Sea Turtle Conservancy to upgrade their lighting systems may also be eligible for sponsorship of their award, thanks to the Conservancy’s generous support of local conservation efforts.
Award recipients will be announced in the fall and will be highlighted on Charlotte County’s official social media channels, recognizing their dedication to protecting our critical coastal habitat.
Natural Resources hopes to expand the program to other barrier islands in the future.
For information, contact Alexandria Grant at 941-613-3218 or Alexandria.Grant@CharlotteCountyFL.gov.
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