One of the issues faced on our beaches is the effects of artificial lighting on our nesting and hatching sea turtles. White artificial light can cause our nesting sea turtles to abandon their nesting attempt due to an unsafe environment on the beach. Our hatchlings are attracted to the white light, and bright white lights on land can cause hatchlings to disorient and not go to the water when they hatch out of the nest.

The Sea Turtle Conservancy will be hosting a free webinar on sea turtle friendly lighting options and resources for the panhandle on August 26, 2025 from 9 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Contractors, city planners, and builders are encouraged to attend.