How much do you know about the Share the Beach program? While thousands of families converge on our beautiful beaches each year for their summer vacation, so do thousands of sea turtles.

Starting in May, female sea turtles make their way hundreds of miles to our shores to lay eggs, which hatch between July and October. Once they hatch, the young sea turtles must make their way to the Gulf of Mexico. That’s when they need our help.

Hatchlings are vulnerable. First, their nests must be protected. So if you come across a nest while combing the beach, call 866-Sea-Turtle (866-732-8878) to report it.

Once a nest is discovered, volunteers go into action, setting up tape and signs to keep others from disturbing it. When the baby sea turtles hatch, they must avoid predators to get back to the water.

But they also need guidance from starlight and moonlight. Turning off patio lights and avoiding the use of flashlights on the beach help with that. And don’t disturb sea turtle tracks because they use those to find their way.

Any trash or debris left on the beach can cause an impediment, which can throw the hatchlings off course.

Share the Beach with these vulnerable hatchlings, and help make it safe for them this nesting season. Want to do more? Volunteer or participate in the Adopt-A-Nest program.

We all need to do our part to Share the Beach.