Sea Turtle Rescue Van Reveal and Thank You Event

Locals and visitors were thrilled to visit the Navarre Beach Sea Turtle Conservation Center (NBSTCC) on January 7. One of the first people onsite was Brian Van De Hey from Wisconsin. Snowbirding with his wife, Peggy, Brian said, “We took a week to get here and we’re planning on staying for a month, so today we decided to stop in and see the turtles.” And right behind the Van De Heys were scores of guests lining up to participate in the day’s activities and see the van reveal.

Home to a non-releasable green sea turtle, Sweet Pea, and over 2,000 square feet of educational displays, the center is open to the public year-round. Founded in 2013, the center has seen growth every year and in 2022 NBSTCC welcomed almost 55,000 visitors through its doors. Everyone loves a celebration and the center’s van reveal event had children jumping around and giggling in a bounce house, face painting, and food trucks for the famished. “We are here today celebrating our supporters and our donors who made this van happen. The new sea-turtle rescue van is an extra-long Ford Transit van that can fit 3 large pools to transport rescued turtles,” explained Cathy Holmes, NBSTCC founder. Cathy continued, “Through our supporters we were afforded the opportunity to wrap the van in an amazing way with our mission of conservation, education, research, and giving sea turtles more tomorrows.”

Throughout the event NBSTCC staff gave tours, explained equipment, and thanked everyone for their support. Volunteers are welcomed and interested parties can contact the center directly via Facebook or through their website NavarreBeachSeaTurtles.org.