BROWARD COUNTY, FL - What you'll be doing in July or August probably isn't your priority right now. But if you've heard about the yearly Sea Turtles and Their Babies program and think maybe you'll check it out, don't dawdle. The long-running program at Anne Kolb Nature Center (751 Sheridan St., Hollywood 33019; 954-357-5161) regularly sells out well in advance, and no walk-ins are accepted. Put it on your calendar now: Registration begins on Monday, May 16th.
This year's program runs on Wednesdays and Fridays, starting on Wednesday, July 6th and ending on Wednesday, August 31st. Things get going at the nature center at 8PM with an hourlong video presentation and lecture. After that, participants will accompany a naturalist on a hatchling release (pending hatchling availability, which is not guaranteed) at nearby Hollywood North Beach Park. You'll get a firsthand look at what these tiny creatures face during their first crucial minutes of life, while learning to identify the species found in South Florida. Other topics include sea turtle habitat, breeding and nesting, identification of crawls and nests, conservation efforts, past exploitation, and current management problems now facing these endangered marine reptiles.
The program, suitable for ages 6 and up, is subject to rescheduling or cancellation if weather conditions are not favorable. Viewing of hatchings is under darkness, so patrons are asked not to bring artificial lights or flash items to the beach area. The fee is $10/person, prepaid. Registration will be accepted online only, starting on Monday, May 16th. Bring your registration form/receipt on the night you attend the program. Participants must provide their own transportation from the nature center to the release site (free parking is provided). Each program is limited to 50 participants.
For further information, call the park at 954-357-5161, ext. 0; after business hours on the day of the program, call 954-357-8808 and leave a message.
Recreation. Preservation. Education.
About the Parks and Recreation Division
Broward County Parks manages almost 6,500 acres, encompassing nearly 50 regional parks and nature centers, neighborhood parks, and natural areas at various stages of development. Hours and fees vary by location. Visit Broward.org/Parks for details. Individuals with disabilities requiring accommodations in order to participate in programs, services, and activities must contact the Special Populations Section at 954-357-8170 or TTY 954-537-2844 at least five business days prior to the scheduled meeting or event.
DATE: May 11, 2022
GENERAL MEDIA CONTACT: Michael Mills
Parks and Recreation Division
PHONE: 954-357-8115
CONTACT FOR THIS PROGRAM/EVENT:
Anne Kolb, 954-357-5161