From February 17-29, CEA participated in the Latin American Convention on Marine Turtles, which took place in San José, Costa Rica. Besides helping CEA become recognized internationally for its turtle conservation work, we were also able to create links with institutions from numerous countries that work on marine turtle research and conservation. The convention participants called attention to the need to increase research, to better understand marine turtle ecology at the local level, and to the importance of sharing information across borders. This information can also be used to influence decision-making in dealing with issues that affect both turtle populations and coastal inhabitants who may be negatively affected by current economic development trends.

The convention is another effort in the search for greater survival opportunities for marine turtles. The participants agreed to work together to design research that would help increase knowledge of marine turtle habits and needs, in order to establish better conservation strategies.

Back at home in Akumal, turtle nesting season will soon begin, along with summer vacation. CEA will provide you with useful tips in our next (April 2004) newsletter on how to make sure your stay along the Mexican Caribbean coast is enjoyable for both you and the many mama turtles that will be laying their eggs in nests along the beaches over the coming months. Together we can help guarantee the survival of this incredible and ancient species.