Protecting Sea Turtle Nesting Sites in Samaná
Eco-Bahia foundation in the Dominican Republic completed the adaptation of Playa El Valle in Samaná province last September. In partnership with the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources, the project aimed to prepare the beach as a safe nesting site for sea turtles.
The work included delimiting the beach to prevent vehicle access to nesting areas, installing red and warm lights to create a comfortable environment for turtles, and placing informative signage for the community and visitors.
In addition, activities were held with community representatives to raise awareness about the importance of Playa El Valle for sea turtle nesting.
Playa El Valle is considered the most important sea turtle nesting site in Samaná province. Each year, females from several species — leatherback turtle (Dermochelys coriacea), hawksbill turtle (Eretmochelys imbricata), and green turtle (Chelonia mydas) — visit this beach to lay their eggs.
The project aims to control the main threats faced by turtles on the beach, including:
- Destruction of nests and egg breakage caused by vehicles crossing the area.
- Disorientation of nesting turtles due to yellow lighting.
- Predation of nests by stray and irresponsibly kept dogs.
Playa El Valle has become a haven for turtles and their hatchlings, strengthening the network of protected nesting sites and conservation areas that Eco-Bahia foundation actively works to preserve.
These efforts contribute to the ongoing protection of vital marine species in the Dominican Republic and promote environmental awareness within local communities.
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