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Taking a Look Back on the 2024 Sea Turtle Nesting Season

Each year between March 1 and October 31 the research staff at Loggerhead Marinelife Center (LMC) monitors sea turtle nesting activity on 9.5 miles of beach in North Palm Beach County, Florida; however, nesting often occurs prior to and following those dates. Three species of sea turtles utilize the beaches close to the Center. Because the turtles come ashore during this time, nesting season allows our team the opportunity to study and monitor these populations.

The first species to hit the beaches each year is the leatherback, followed by loggerheads, and then finally the green turtles. 2023 was a record year for sea turtle nesting on the beaches monitored by LMC with over 25,000 total nests, also representing a record of 15,672 nests for loggerheads. This year, as of the end of October, 14,950 total nests have been recorded.

Each evening, LMC staff are working on the beaches as turtles are nesting. During this time the staff can get bloodwork, measurements, weights, and tag key specimens with flipper tags and occasionally satellite tags. One leatherback named Patricia has visited the beaches monitored by the Center frequently and was satellite tagged in 2023. After leaving the beaches of South Florida, Patricia headed all the way up to the chilly waters of the Gulf of St. Lawrence south of Quebec. That is a marathon journey by boat, let alone swimming. Another leatherback named Domino missed the all-time diving depth record for the species by 336 feet reaching 3,669 feet.

With each morning survey, our research team identifies every crawl left by nesting sea turtles. The three species that nest on the local beaches all leave a unique signature path in the sand. Each crawl is identified to a species and reviewed as to whether it was a successful crawl resulting in a nest or a false crawl where the turtle decided not to nest for any number of reasons from type of sand, light pollution, presence of predators, or human interlopers.

While each nesting year is different, the team at Loggerhead Marinelife Center is on the front lines of sea turtle research. Despite nesting numbers being very high last year, hatchling survival was rather low likely due to high temperatures and a dry summer. The rainy season of 2024 has led to increased hatchling production as the rain cools off the nests. Conservation efforts that began nearly 40 years ago have helped most sea turtle populations in the United States begin to rebound, but they are not out of the woods (or sand) just yet. Loggerhead Marinelife Center benefits from the partnership of Loggerhead Marinas which help support the critical work we do.

Andy Dehart – President & CEO

Loggerhead Marinelife Center

Photos courtesy of Christian Del Rosario and Andy Dehart

Fudgy Pecan Bourbon Balls

Ingredients:

8 ounces 60% cacao dark chocolate, cut into 1/2-inch pieces

1/2 Cup heavy cream

1/3 Cup bourbon

3/4 Cup pecan halves, finely chopped

Instructions:

1. Place chocolate in a medium bowl. Bring heavy cream and bourbon just a simmer in a saucepan over medium. Remove from heat and pour cream mixture over chocolate. Let stand 1 minute; stir vigorously until cream and chocolate are thoroughly blended. Let mixture cool 15 minutes. Cover with plastic wrap, and chill until firm, about 2 hours. (If you cannot make the truffles immediately, the mixture will keep, covered, in the fridge up to 1 week.)

2. Place chopped pecans on a shallow plate. Line a baking sheet

3. Working quickly and using a small warmed teaspoon (dipped into hot water and then dried), scoop chilled chocolate mixture by 2-teaspoon portions, and shape each into a ball. Place each ball on chopped pecans. Once the plate is filled, wash hands and roll balls in pecans to completely cover. Transfer balls to a parchment paper-lined baking sheet. Repeat with remaining chocolate mixture and pecans.

4. Chill balls until firm, about 1 hour. (Or freeze until firm, about 10 minutes.) Enjoy them now, gift them, or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator up to 1 week.

(Recipe from southernliving.com)

Signal Corps Two-Letter Flag Signals and VHF Radio call signsTwo-Letter Flag Signals

Two-Letter Flag Signals

Have you ever seen flags being flown while out on the water that you didn’t recognize? Being familiar with your flags can help you and other boaters stay alert and be safe.

A C: I am abandoning vessel

I T: I am on fire

A N: I need a doctor

J F: I am in distress and need immediate assistance

A Q: I have an injured person who needs to be taken off immediately

J G: I am aground and in danger

C B: I require immediate assistance

J L: You are at risk of running aground

C J: Do you require assistance?

J W: I have sprung a leak

C N: I am unable to give assistance

K F: I require a tug

C P: I am coming to your assistance

K N: I cannot take you in tow

D V: I am drifting

N C: International Distress

D X: I am sinking

N E: Proceed with great caution

G W: Man overboard

N F: You are running into danger

I M: I request to be escorted until further notice

N G: You are in a dangerous position

VHF Channel Markers

Whether you’re very comfortable with using your VHF radio or still figuring things out, knowing how to use your channels is essential to communicating effectively with those around you.

16: Hailing and distress

09: Ship-to-ship and ship-to-coast (for example, when contacting marinas)

68: The same as Channel 9, but this channel is also used for commercial ship-to-ship

06: Ship-to-ship communication for safety only

21A and 83: Coast Guard internal communication only

22A: This is the channel you’ll be switched to if you call the Coast Guard, and your situation isn’t life threatening

13: Navigational (bridges, locks, etc.)

70: Reserved for digital selective calling

12: Port operations

25, 26, 27, and 28: Public telephone-link up with a land-based marine operator

69, 71, and 72: Ship-to-ship communication

WX-1, WX-2, WX-3, and WX-4: Weather broadcasts

Make-Ahead Sweet Potato Salad

Give your classic egg salad a twist by adding roasted sweet potatoes! This combination recipe of egg salad and sweet potatoes gives this side dish more texture and flavor from the sweet potatoes. There are a few more steps involved in this atypical dish than a classic egg salad, but we promise the tasty payoff will be worth it. You can also customize this salad however you’d like – no celery? Go for diced red onions instead. Or make it spicy with some cayenne pepper. You could use the typical dijon mustard/mayo combo as a dressing, or take it to the next level with an avocado crema, which gives the dish that same creamy texture with a slight twist. What is also great about this recipe is that you can prep the hard-boiled eggs and roasted sweet potatoes ahead of time – just store in the fridge until ready to use, assemble, and enjoy!

Ingredients: Makes about 12 servings

Salad Ingredients
1 -2 sweet potatoes (depending on how big they are), diced
2 tbs olive oil
6 hard-boiled eggs, diced
red onion, diced (TIP: let the diced red onions hang out in some cold water before assembling salad to soften that onion bite!)
chives, chopped
salt & pepper to taste
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp cumin
1 tsp cayenne pepper

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 375 and put a pot of boiling water on the stove. This way, you can prep your potatoes and eggs at the same time!
  2. Dice sweet potatoes and lay on a baking sheet.
  3. Drizzle olive oil over the sweet potatoes and pop in the oven for 25 – 30 minutes until they are soft and the edges are slightly browned. Let the potatoes cool before adding them to the other ingredients.
  4. While the potatoes are in the oven, hard boil your eggs according to your preferred method.
  5. Dice up red onions and let soak in cold water for a few minutes to soften bitter taste; can dice celery here if using celery, instead.
  6. Dice chives.
  7. Once eggs are hard boiled and set in a cold water bath, dice these up, too.
  8. Add onions and/or celery, eggs, chives, and cooled sweet potatoes to bowl. Add spices and mix in.
  9. Add dressing of choice and mix to combine.
  10. Refrigerate before serving.

Traditional Dressing:

1/3 C mayo
Juice from 1/2 lemon
Dijon mustard
1 tsp paprika
salt & pepper to taste

Instructions:

Just mix all together in a bowl and pour over egg salad

Avocado Crema Dressing

1 ripe avocado; pinch of salt, pinch of pepper, 1/2 can of coconut milk; 1 juiced lime, 1 tsp hot sauce (or more if you want it spicy!); 1 garlic clove, 1/4 tsp onion powder

Instructions:

Blitz all ingredients in a blender until smooth and creamy. If the consistency is too thick, add a little bit of water to the mix and continue to blend until smooth. This crema is great on other dishes as well like tacos, sandwiches, or anything else you can think of.

Avocado Crema recipe inspired by Hot for Food 

8 Tips for Beginner and Expert Boaters: Setting Sail with Confidence

Boating is an exhilarating experience, meant to offer endless adventures and loads of fun. Whether you’re new to navigating the waters or are a seasoned seafarer, these essential tips will help ensure a safe and enjoyable boating experience for you and your crew.

  1. Know the Basics of Boating Safety
    Boating is an exhilarating experience, meant to offer endless adventures and loads of fun. Whether you’re new to navigating the waters or are a seasoned seafarer, these essential tips will help ensure a safe and enjoyable boating experience for you and your crew.

  2. Maintain Your Boat Regularly
    Owning a boat comes with the responsibility of regular maintenance. Schedule routine inspections and services to keep your vessel in top condition. Check the hull, engine, and electrical systems regularly for any signs of wear or damage. Proper maintenance not only extends the life of your boat but also ensures safe and smooth outings.

  3. Understand Weather Conditions
    Weather can change rapidly, especially in open water. Check the weather forecast before heading out and remain vigilant for any signs of changing conditions. Strong winds, heavy rain, or thunderstorms can create dangerous situations, so it’s best to avoid boating during adverse weather.

  4. Practice Docking and Anchoring
    Docking and anchoring can take some time to get the hang of, especially at a new marina. be challenging for beginners. Practice these skills in calm conditions to build confidence. Approach docks slowly and be mindful of wind and currents. Don’t be afraid to ask for assistance from our friendly marina teams! When anchoring, ensure the anchor is securely set to prevent drifting.

  5. Respect Navigational Rules
    Just like driving, boating has its own set of rules and regulations. Learn and follow navigational rules, including right-of-way, speed limits, and no-wake zones. Respecting these rules and staying sober while at the helm ensures your safety and that of others on the water.

  6. Communicate Your Plans
    Inform someone on shore about your boating plans, including your expected return time and route. Having a communication plan in place can be a lifesaver in case of emergencies and can add to your peace of mind when you’re on the water.

  7. Dress Appropriately
    Wear appropriate clothing and footwear. Non-slip shoes and layers can help you stay comfortable and safe. Always wear a life jacket, regardless of your swimming ability. Safety never goes out of style! 

  8. Enjoy the Journey
    Lastly, embrace the learning process and enjoy your time on the water. Boating is about relaxation and adventure, so take it slow and savor each moment.
     

    By following these tips, you’ll be well-prepared to navigate the waters safely and confidently. Happy boating!

We Asked, You Answered: Some of these tips are from our very own community of Facebook followers! Give us a follow and you’ll find all the fun content we share!

A message from our friends at Loggerhead Marinelife Center

The words “coral reef” have several connotations. To many it invokes memories of snorkeling or diving in the clear blue waters of the Florida Keys, Caribbean or other tropical parts of the world. Others think of days out on the boat fishing and enjoying time with friends and family. Some may think of a Jimmy Buffet ballad backed up by his band the Coral Reefers.

Few, however, think of the valuable roles coral reefs play in our natural world and in our coastal economies. Worldwide, coral reefs are hotbeds for biodiversity that support 25% of all marine species and over $36 billion in tourism. If you enjoy recreational fishing it is important to know that coral reefs provide shelter and food as well as reproductive and nursery areas for many marine species including those that are commercially and recreationally valuable as food fish.  According to the PEW Charitable Trusts nearly 6 million fishers in the world rely on coral reefs for their products which have an estimated annual value of $375 billion globally. The annual value of coral reef-based fisheries in the US is well over $200 million.  

Brain Coral | Photo courtesy of Andy Dehart

Healthy reefs are not just important for protecting our fisheries and tourism, they are critical for protecting our coastal communities. Coral reefs are the first line of defense against powerful storms by reducing wave height an average of 84%. In many tropical coastal communities, mangroves and coral reefs work in tandem to protect shorelines from severe storms and flooding. A recent study found that Florida’s Coral Reef annually provides over $675 million dollars in flood protection benefits to people, property and jobs – increasing to over $1.6 billion during severe storm events.

Unfortunately, coral reefs are facing many local, regional, and global stressors including declining water quality and unusually high ocean temperatures that led to 2023-24 being declared as the 4th global coral bleaching event. In addition, an outbreak of the virulent “stony coral tissue loss disease” continues to affect corals throughout Florida, the Bahamas, and the Caribbean.

Staghorn Coral | Photo courtesy of Andy Dehart

Since coral reefs are so valuable, it’s critical to keep them healthy and resilient. Luckily there is still time to save these amazing ecosystems! Loggerhead Marinelife Center and its partner organizations are focused on all areas of reef conservation ranging from education to habitat restoration and disease control. We need your help – the boating community is key to helping us build innovative private and corporate partnerships that will support protection and restoration of these ecologically, culturally, and economically important ecosystems.  

There are several things you can do to help in this fight to protect this resource for generations to come. Some of the most impactful things you can do are:

  • Use reef safe sunscreen. Visit https://oceanservice.noaa.gov/news/sunscreen-corals.html for more information.
  • Choose sustainable seafood by using a program like Seafood Watch.
  • Practice safe boating by anchoring in sandy areas away from reefs and sea grasses – far enough to ensure the anchor chain does not drag over these sensitive habitats.
  • Be chemical aware. Many cleaning chemicals for boats can harm the reefs as can fertilizers used in your yard at home.
  • Recycle monofilament lines to prevent derelict marine debris.
  • Refuse or reduce single-use plastics. Plastics eventually break down into nano plastics and trickle into the food and water we consume.

I learned to snorkel in the Florida Keys at the age of 5. I have had a lifetime of adventure and excitement on or under the water on coral reefs. I have been very fortunate to have dove with large sharks, snorkeled with sea turtles and watched goliath groupers. At Loggerhead Marinelife Center we want to help build awareness for these special places to ultimately protect them. We know we have kindred spirits in the boating community that love the coral reefs just like we do, and we thank you for being partners in their protection.

Andy Dehart

President & CEO

Loggerhead Marinelife Center

The Best Cheeseball Recipes

Cheeseballs have been an easy go-to appetizer for social gatherings for years. And while cheeseballs experienced the height of their popularity during the ‘50s, ‘60s, and ‘70s, the great little appetizer is still celebrated on National Cheeseball Day (April 17). So, get ready to roll a few up – one sweet; one savory!

Dill Pickle Cheeseball

(Recipe from pitchforkfoodie.com)

Ingredients:
8 ounces cream cheese, at room temperature
1 cup dill pickle relish, drained
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
½ teaspoon onion powder
1 ½ cup grated cheddar cheese
2 teaspoons dill weed

Instructions:
Mix all ingredients except grated cheese; stir in grated cheese. Form into a ball and refrigerate for 15 minutes. Sprinkle with chopped dill weed or roll ball in the dill. Serve, or refrigerate until serving time. If you want the cheeseball to be firm, refrigerate for an hour before serving.

Chocolate Chip Cheeseball

(Recipe from saltysidedish.com)

Ingredients:
8 ounces cream cheese, at room temperature
½ cup butter, softened
¾ cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla
1 bag mini chocolate chips, divided

Instructions:
In a mixing bowl, add cream cheese and butter and beat well until combined. Add powdered sugar and vanilla and beat well. Fold in ½ cup of the mini chocolate chips. Place onto plastic wrap and shape into a ball and then wrap ball in plastic. Refrigerate for 4-6 hours. Add remaining chocolate to a plate and roll the chilled ball to coat in mini chips. Serve with graham crackers or mini vanilla wafers.

How to Pack for the Perfect Picnic

Whether you’ve stacked Tupperware and mason jars into a big tote bag to take on the boat or are carrying one a classic picnic basket that organizes your silverware, dishes, and even wine glasses, it doesn’t take too much to get picnic-ready. All you basically need is a bunch of tasty, fresh food that you can eat with your hands, and a companion! Here are some helpful tips to help you pack that perfect picnic on the water!

  • Wrap knives in tea towels for safety and to have cloth napkins to clean up.
  • Roll into your picnic like a boss.
    • Bag or basket too heavy to carry? Pack your picnic in a rolling cart, like this one to make it easier to get to your picnic destination. Line the cart with a tablecloth (use a gingham one to really set the picnic mood!) and add your supplies, heaviest items on the bottom first.
  • Bring a swiss army knife or multi-tool with you.
    • These nifty little tools usually have corkscrews, knives, scissors, and can openers on them, making them very handy when you’ve forgotten a knife or a can opener.
  • A small cutting board that fits in your picnic basket doubles as a cheese plate!
    • Who knew a cutting board could do double duty?
    • Make guacamole with avocado shells – cut avocado in half, take a fork and mash within the skin of the avocado. Add diced tomatoes, onions, cilantro, squeeze a lime over top, and voila! Handheld guacamole… just add chips!
  • Don’t know what to eat? You can’t go wrong with fruit and cheese! Cheese and fruit pairings that are awesome:
    • Chevre (goat) cheese and d’anjou pears
    • Pink lady apples and sharp cheddar cheese
  • Classic finger sandwich recipes make for crowd-pleasing picnic basket lunches that are easy to transport and boast ingredients that impress. Finger sandwich recipes, even if they aren’t bite-sized, are great because of their thin layers and aren’t slippery. Here are a few combinations that are great for late summer picnics:
    • Cucumbers, butter, fresh herbs, and lemon zest on white bread (classic tea sandwich recipe)
    • Peanut butter & jelly on wheat bread
    • Cucumber, smoked salmon, cream cheese, chives on white bread
    • Watercress and egg salad on white bread
    • Prosciutto, ricotta cheese, and honey on baguette
  • Jelly jars are perfect for transporting salad dressing
    • Instead of potentially risking opening up a tupperware full of sad, wilted lettuce that was dressed too early, bring your dressing on the side. Jelly jars or small mason jars that can seal tightly are great for transporting salad dressing, keeping your salad crunchy and your picnic happy!
  • Screw top wine.
    • Need we say more? Also, plastic wine glasses are durable and keep you from any potential glass-related injuries.
  • COOKIES.

Waterfront Restaurants on the Atlantic Coast: Top Picks

Florida’s Atlantic Coast offers some of the best dockside dining experiences, where you can enjoy delicious meals with stunning waterfront views. From fresh seafood to tropical cocktails, these restaurants provide the perfect backdrop for a relaxing day on the water. No need to pack a meal for your time on the boat—these convenient dockside restaurants are perfect for boaters looking to dine out.

Looking for exquisite seafood and breathtaking views of the Intracoastal Waterway? GG’s Waterfront in Hollywood is a must-visit. Just a short distance from Loggerhead Hollywood Marina, GG’s offers a sophisticated dining experience with dishes like their famous crab cakes and lobster rolls. The restaurant’s elegant ambiance and top-notch service make it a favorite among locals and visitors. If you prefer to enjoy your food on-the-go, GG’s offers dockside pickup as well.

Caribbean Jack’s in Daytona Beach combines a laid-back atmosphere with delectable dishes. Located onsite at Loggerhead Daytona Beach Marina, this restaurant is perfect for those looking to unwind after a day on the water, complete with daily happy hour specials. Their extensive menu features everything from coconut shrimp to succulent steaks, all served with a side of live music and stunning sunsets on the outdoor deck.

In the picturesque Key Biscayne, Boater’s Grill is a hidden treasure nestled within Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park. Just a few hours from Loggerhead South Miami Marina, this casual eatery is the perfect place to stop for lunch on a day trip out to Key Biscayne. This harborside restaurant’s menu includes fresh seafood, Cuban-inspired dishes, and mouthwatering burgers.

Deck 84 in Delray Beach is a vibrant waterfront restaurant located just 10 miles from Loggerhead Lantana Marina. Known for its lively atmosphere and extensive menu, Deck 84 serves up kids’ favorites, happy hour libations, dinners for dogs, and plenty in-between. This pet-friendly spot is great for a leisurely lunch or a fun evening out with friends.

Finally, Mulligan’s Beach House in Sebastian is a family-friendly restaurant with a prime location close to Loggerhead Vero Beach Marina. With its laid-back vibe and extensive menu, Mulligan’s offers something for everyone, from seafood platters to hearty sandwiches. For a wallet-friendly bonus, kids eat free from 5:00-8:00pm every Thursday through August. There’s no better place to relax and enjoy the beauty of the Indian River Lagoon following a for your post-sailing adventures.

Best Practices for Ocean Month and Beyond

For many years Loggerhead Marinelife Center has been thrilled to partner with Loggerhead Marinas on conservation efforts. We look to further that with shared content in the marina newsletters on topics involving our oceans, lakes, and rivers. We recognize that the boating community enjoys time on the water and wish to protect our resources as we do at Loggerhead Marinelife Center.

June 8th is World Ocean Day each year and the month of June has commonly been known as Ocean Month. While our planet is named earth nearly 70% of it is covered in water. This unique feature of our planet helps with climate regulation, transporting heat from the equator to the poles, and regulating our weather patterns. While this is essential for life on the planet there are financial reasons the oceans are important as well. The US ocean economy produces $282 billion in goods and services and employs almost 3 million people. 76% of all US trade involves some form of marine transportation. The ocean provides food and medicine we rely on.

With news of coral bleaching, sea grass die off and ocean plastics it is hard to not have environmental anxiety. Being on the front lines I can say there is still time for hope as we all work to protect our oceans and connected waterways. At Loggerhead Marinelife Center we focus on Rehabilitation, Research, Conservation and Education with a focus on threatened and endangered sea turtles. Sea turtles are a sentinel for what is occurring in the ocean, and we are seeing the effects of plastics in the ocean and increased ocean temperatures.

Last year we treated and released over 2000 sea turtle hatchlings and 85 older sea turtles. Some of these turtles came in with boat injuries while more came to the center entangled in fishing gear. Many green turtles are coming to the Center due to a viral disease known as fibropapillomatosis which causes potentially deadly tumors.

As members of Loggerhead Marinas, you are helping us conduct this important work while also conducting critical nesting research. There are also things you can do in your own home and on your boat to help our oceans:

  • Conserve water at home which reduces runoff and wastewater – This water often comes through septic systems or washes harmful fertilizers from yards into local waterways that lead to the ocean.
  • Boat safely by monitoring speeds in manatee or sea turtle areas and wearing polarized glasses while driving.
  • Respect the marine habitats while on the water by being mindful not to anchor on coral reefs or sea grass areas.

We look forward to increasing our collaboration between our two organizations and sharing our exciting work.

Best Fishes,
Andy Dehart – President & CEO
Loggerhead Marinelife Center