Turtle Island Restoration Network (TIRN) (2024)

In Texas, thousands of sea turtles suffer annually due to accidental hooking, entanglement, and pollution, which can lead to severe health complications or death. To combat these issues, TIRN established the 866-TURTLE-5 Sea Turtle Hotline, a crucial resource for reporting stranded or injured turtles. TIRN also engages in public outreach, sign installations, and environmental education to raise awareness and promote ocean conservation. By addressing marine threats early, the organization mobilizes communities to protect sea turtles and their habitats.

With SWOT funding, TIRN is expanding the reach of the 866-TURTLE-5 hotline by installing new aluminum signs at key locations along 72 miles of the Texas coast. These signs will educate anglers and beachgoers on responding properly to injured or entangled turtles, reducing human-related harm. Increased visibility of the hotline will lead to faster response times, improving the survival rates of rescued turtles, including the critically endangered Kemp’s Ridley. Additionally, the project will enhance conservation efforts by alerting responders to nesting sites and hatchlings, ensuring the protection of vulnerable sea turtle populations in the Gulf of Mexico.