Sea Turtle Beach Steward Program Toolkit

survey the wrack lineSeason is from July 1st to November 30th

Annual HCP Training

Successful implementation of the Washback Beach Steward program requires coordination, teamwork, and consistency by all involved in marine turtle protection. Zone Captains and Beach Steward volunteers are required to complete the washback program orientation and attend a survey training session. Training will include Habitat Conservation Plan (HCP) and/or Incidental Take Permit (ITP) updates, and any other information SJC needs to provide for successful implementation of the HCP, compliance with the ITP and the Beach Steward volunteer program.

If interested in being added to the volunteer distribution list please email the program coordinator:
tdodson@sjcfl.us

Washback Training Video

Data Entry

Zone captain or designated volunteer may enter survey data here

Zone Captains can print more data sheets or email results to tdodson@sjcfl.us.

Supplies

  • Washback Gear Bag with:
  • Notebook or enclosed clip board for holding data sheets
  • 4 bait buckets (2 labeled “dead” and 2 labeled “live”)
  • Caliper or ruler
  • Sunscreen, hand sanitizer
  • Pens and pencils
  • Notebook with the Following Resources:
  • Washback Survey Protocol
  • Washback Data Sheet
  • Lat/Long reference sheet

Conditions

Weather: It is important that you know what kind of weather to expect during your morning surveys.
You can also load a weather predictor app on your iPhone or Smartphone. NOAA Weather Florida

Tides: It is important that you know what type of tide you will be encountering on your morning surveys.
You can also load a tides predictor app on your iPhone or Smartphone. NOAA Tide Predictor

Sea Turtle RescueWho do I call?

Never push an animal back into the ocean. The animal is either injured or ill and needs medical attention.

  • Stranded Sea Turtle – 1-888-404-FWCC (3922)
    If you are sea turtle patrol volunteer contact your permit holder.
  • Marine Mammals – 1-888-404-FWCC (3922)
    This includes whales and dolphins.
  • FWC Fish Kill Hotline – Submit a Fish Kill Report online,
    or call 1-800-636-051.
    All fish types including but not limited to sharks and sunfish

Contact

Interested in volunteering? To find our more please visit the Beach Steward Page.

Turtle on the beach