Brianna
What are the precautions for posting signs in a beach?
I'm a future marine biologist and I plan to specialize in sea turtle rehabilitation. I want to help the sea turtles before they become endangered. One plan I have for helping the population is by posting signs with the phone number of the sea turtle rehabilitation center I end up working at so that when people on the beach find a washed up or injured sea turtle, they will have the phone number to contact me. By contacting me, I will then go to the site and help the harmed sea turtle back to the hospital where I will work with them until they are healthy enough to return to the ocean.
#marine-biology #endangered-species #biology #career
3 answers
Katherine Huotari
Katherine’s Answer
Assuming you have all of the proper permits to work with endangered species... :)
First, I would be aware of any rules/laws prohibiting posting on beaches. If you are unsure, try asking the rangers for the park the beach is in.
Second, you should have information ready to give to the caller. Information you would need to know before you get there like species, injuries, general health and well-being of the turtle, potential safety issues, whether or not there have been people harassing it. At The Marine Mammal Center, the the worlds largest marine mammal hospital (and the occasional turtle), our dispatch volunteers are trained in what kinds of questions to ask, and how to fill out forms/reports regarding each case.
Side note: please be aware the the legal term of harassing, when it comes to endangered animals, may be different than the definition you are used to (https://www.fws.gov/midwest/endangered/glossary/index.html). Make yourself, and the public aware!
Katherine recommends the following next steps:
Marjorie Tabango
Marjorie’s Answer
Hi Brianna,
So happy to see others with a passion for the helpless! Thank you for your passion in caring for the creatures of the ocean, where very much help is needed. While all information above is very helpful, the most important thing to remember is to never let anyone change you or your drive, and to always continue to grow and keep your passion to share with others. You might want to start with volunteer opportunities where you can gain as much knowledge as you can about care and endangered species. If you are not near any bodies of water in your hometown, find pet stores and aquariums near you and start there. Experience comes first, education, then execution, which is the most complicated. Once you’re done with school and you have a nice resume with your marine life experience, you can then work for your city or move to an area where endangered species conservation for marine life is top priority.
Wish you well on your studies, keep good study habits early, join reliable study groups and VOLUNTEER every chance you get and don’t forget about time for yourself and family, it will keep your passion alive,
I’ve attached a site for kinds of “signage” that is legal and binding but you may have to consult with your city or municipality about posting rights and/or privileges.
Good luck!
https://www.clarionsafety.com/beach-safety-signs/
Samantha Contreras
Samantha’s Answer
Before you go into the beach, read the signs for your safety. This way you are aware of any warnings or dangers in the ocean.