A National Effort for Marine Conservation
With the goal of strengthening marine turtle conservation and standardizing data management on their nesting, the First National Training on Marine Turtle Monitoring and Protection was held at Playa Nueva Romana in the Dominican Republic.
The event brought together representatives from social organizations, environmental groups, and government entities from across the country’s coastal regions, creating a collaborative workspace to unify methodologies and establish a national database to improve management of these endangered species.
The workshop was organized by the Vice Ministry of Coastal and Marine Affairs of the Ministry of Environment, the Association of Hotels and Tourism El Seibo-Miches (PROMICHES), and Eco Bahia Foundation of Grupo Piñero, with support from marine conservation institutions such as FUNDEMAR, Fundación Ecológica Los Arrecifes de Bávaro, and Fundación Puntacana.
During the training, 36 technicians, biologists, and volunteers received instruction in standardized marine turtle monitoring protocols to enhance data collection and strengthen science-based decision making.
The event also featured experts from Mexico and Costa Rica who shared experiences on nest management, population monitoring, and protection of critical habitats.
For Eco-Bahia, integrating the tourism sector into environmental initiatives is key to ensuring sustainable development.
“The success of this training reaffirms our commitment to protecting marine turtles and coastal ecosystems. Implementing standardized protocols will strengthen our long-term conservation strategies,” said Alex Matás, director of Eco-Bahia foundation in the Dominican Republic.
Marine turtles play an essential role in the health of coastal and marine ecosystems. However, they face threats such as:
• Habitat degradation
• Climate change
• Pollution of seas and beaches
• Illegal harvesting of nests and eggs for consumption
Facing these challenges, inter-institutional cooperation and environmental education are key tools to ensure the survival of these endangered species.
Eco-Bahia foundation and Grupo Piñero reaffirm their commitment through this initiative to protect marine biodiversity, promote sustainable tourism, and foster collaboration among the public, private, and social sectors.
Conserving marine turtles not only protects an iconic species but also ensures the balance of coastal ecosystems for future generations.
