Sea turtle harvest ban begins January 1; Fines Up to $5 000
Starting January 1, the harvesting and trade of sea turtles is banned under Saint Lucia’s annual conservation measures, the government has announced. In a release issued on December 23, the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries said all harvesting, sale and consumption of sea turtle meat must cease by the end of December 31, 2025. According […] The article Sea turtle harvest ban begins January 1; Fines Up to $5 000 is from St. Lucia Times.
Black News 
Starting January 1, the harvesting and trade of sea turtles is banned under Saint Lucia’s annual conservation measures, the government has announced.
In a release issued on December 23, the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries said all harvesting, sale and consumption of sea turtle meat must cease by the end of December 31, 2025.
According to the ministry, the law prohibits the harvesting, sale, purchasing and consumption of sea turtles during the closed season. This includes the whole animal, any part of it, or its by-products such as meat, shell or other parts.
The closed season coincides with peak periods when sea turtles are reproducing and is intended to allow populations to mature and recover. The ministry warned that non-compliance with the closure could result in an extended closed season.
Fisherfolk, vendors and members of the public are being urged to adhere to the regulations and to report anyone found in possession of sea turtles, or their by-products, to the Praedial Larceny Unit, Marine Police, the nearest police station or the Department of Fisheries.
Under the Fisheries Act, anyone found in possession of a sea turtle, or any part or by-product, is liable to a fine of up to EC$5 000.
The article Sea turtle harvest ban begins January 1; Fines Up to $5 000 is from St. Lucia Times.
