FORT WALTON BEACH, Fla. — A new educational campaign designed to reduce the number of sea turtles injured by boats is being rolled out this month in local waters.
The campaign, called Boaters For Turtles, asks boat operators to “go slow for those below.”
A 2025 study led by Florida State University researchers found that 1 in 4 sea turtles found dead or injured in Florida were hit by a boat, and 98% of those that were hit do not survive.
Sea turtles are often difficult, if not impossible, to see from the surface. Most sea turtles are hit just below the waterline, and the risk is greatest in high-traffic areas such as passes and inlets, where important turtle habitat overlaps with recreational activity.
Boaters for Turtles has partnered with Destin-Fort Walton Beach Natural Resources to place educational signs with QR codes at the boat ramps of Liza Jackson Park, Marler Park on Okaloosa Island, and Joe’s Bayou in the City of Destin Government.
Participating boat rental companies will also share campaign information with customers to raise awareness among visitors before they head out on the water.
The voluntary sea turtle protection zone includes Destin Harbor, East Pass, and the area surrounding Crab Island.
“From our surveys of over 500 boaters, we were reminded of how much boaters care,”said Dr. Katie Abrams, Professor of Science Communication at Colorado State University.
“Across Destin, St. Pete, and Sarasota, most said they would slow down where turtles are at risk. One thing they need is signs at the ramp to remind them. This campaign meets people where that goodwill already exists.”
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