MSI Public Lecture Series

Kemp’s Ridley is the most endangered sea turtle species in the world. The population plummeted during the mid-1900s, but thanks to the hard work of many in Mexico and the United States, nesting is increasing in both countries. Cooperative efforts to restore this species have been on-going in Texas since 1978. Numerous entities from the public and private sectors, as well as thousands of citizens, have aided in various ways. The number of Kemp’s Ridley nests found on the Texas coast has increased during the last decade, with a record 128 documented in 2007. About 60% of the nests confirmed in the U.S. have been at Padre Island National Seashore, making it the most important Kemp’s Ridley nesting beach in the U.S. With continued conservation, public education, and community involvement, we hope to ensure the recovery of this magnificent species so that it can be enjoyed by future generations.

To learn more about Dr. Shaver’s work, go to: www.nps.gov/pais