Coastal armoring structures (i.e., seawalls, bulkheads, revetments,
and sandbags) are designed to protect upland property, but have the
unfortunate effect of degrading marine turtle nesting habitat in
Florida.
When constructed on nesting beaches,
coastal armoring structures block turtles' access to suitable
nesting habitat, resulting in decreased nesting emergences.
Additionally, several cases have been documented of interactions
with coastal armoring structures that have resulted in the deaths
of nesting females and hatchlings.
FWRI research projects involve assessing the extent of coastal
armoring structures on marine turtle nesting beaches and the
effects of these structures on marine turtle nesting behavior.
Results will assist marine turtle management staff in efforts to
minimize impacts from future coastal armoring construction
projects. Coupled with this research are efforts to inform the
public about this important marine turtle conservation problem in
Florida.
Visit the Threats to
Sea Turtles Photo Gallery for more pictures of coastal
armor.
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