4th December 2020

The public is informed that Sea Turtle Fishery will be CLOSED as of January 1, 2021

By Department of Fisheries

Press Release - The public is informed that the Sea Turtle Fishery will be CLOSED as of January 1, 2021 to September 30, 2021, both days inclusive.  All harvesting, sale and consumption of sea turtle meat must cease at midnight on December 31, 2020. 

The law prohibits the harvest, sale, purchase and consumption of sea turtles which includes the whole, any part or its by-products (meat, shell or other parts) during the closed season. 

The closed season coincides with peak periods when sea turtles are reproducing and is established to allow the animals to mature and revive its population.  As such, non-compliance with the closed season may result in the extended closure. 

Anyone found in possession of a sea turtle, whole or any part or its by product can be fined five thousand dollars (EC$5000) as stipulated under the Fisheries Act Cap. 7.15. 

The Department appeals to the general public, fishers and vendors to adhere to the closed season regulations and report to the Praedial Larceny Unit, Marine Police, the nearest Police Station or the Department of Fisheries anyone known to be in possession of sea turtles or its by-products (meat, shell or other parts) during the closed season. 

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