IN an effort to protect the remaining population of Jamaican Sea Turtles, the National Environment and Planning Agency (NEPA) is urging Jamaicans to avoid partaking in activities that may disturb nesting sea turtles, their eggs and hatchlings during the months of July to October — the main nesting period for the reptiles.

In addition, NEPA is asking persons to report all sightings of the reptiles (on land, at nesting beaches, or at sea — their nest locations), eggs and hatchlings and any incidents of poaching of adults or their eggs to the nearest police station, the Environmental Warden Service or non-government environmental organisations.

The national environment watchdog, however, said that individuals or groups interested in participating in turtle watch activities or learning more about sea turtle conservation in Jamaica may contact its biodiversity branch. Information can also be obtained from NEPA’s website at www.nepa.gov.jm.

Locally, all sea turtles are protected under Jamaica’s Wild Life Protection Act which states that it is an “offence to have sea turtles in one’s possession, whether whole or part, dead or alive. This includes adult turtles; hatchlings, shells, meat, eggs and all other turtle products.” Persons found in possession of turtles or any of these items can be fined up to JA$100,000 or imprisoned for up to one year.