Longboat Key Turtle Watch donates to Mote

The Longboat Key Turtle Watch is making a splash with its donation to Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium, a tradition they’ve held since 2008.

The LBKTW works with Mote’s Sea Turtle Conservation and Research Program (STCRP) every year to track the sea turtle nests along the beaches of the key, as well as provide education and outreach within the island community. 

This year’s donation, in the LBKTW’s 50th year, was the largest ever, with $15,0006.44 from the Turtle Watch going to various turtle-related programs at Mote. Since 2008, the LBKTW has donated at least $84,389.29 to Mote programs, said Mote PR manager Stephanie Kettle.

Here's how Mote plans to use the most recent donation:

$5,212.00 to support Mote’s sea turtle tagging: Purchase flipper tags, satellite tag, and other supplies needed by the sea turtle tagging team

$3,310.00 to support Mote’s sea turtle nesting patrol: Educational materials to alert the public about sea turtle nesting season and other needed supplies such as caging material for nests, software for data reporting, etc. 

$495.21 to support Mote’s Hatchling Hospital: Upgrades to large rehabilitation habitat to add a false bottom to make it suitable for tiny hatchlings

$2,300 for Mote’s Sea Turtle Rehabilitation Hospital: Partial funding for use of surgical laser for removal of fibropapilloma tumors on sea turtles. Mote is one of very few hospitals able to accept sea turtles with fibropapilloma, as it is a very contagious disease and requires additional knowledge, protocols, etc. 

$3,000 for Mote’s Education Department: $2,000 to support Mote bringing Title 1 schools for field trip at no cost to the school; $1,000 for four campers to attend Mote Camp

$689.23 for Mote’s Stranding Investigations Program: New stretcher to assist with transporting deceased sea turtles