Ministry Of Blue Economy And Marine Affairs Announces Closed Season For Leatherback Turtles, Lobsters And Sea Urchins

The Ministry of Blue Economy and Marine Affairs advises the fishing population of Grenada that the closed season for leatherback turtles,  lobsters, and sea urchins will begin on April 1, 2025.

As part of ongoing conservation efforts, the lobster season will be closed for the months of May,  June, July, and August. These months, which do not contain the letter “R”, have been designated  as a closed season for lobster harvesting. During this period, it is crucial that no lobsters are  harvested to allow them to complete their reproductive cycle.

The closed season for Leatherback Turtles and Sea Urchins will begin on April 1 and will extend  until August 31, with the season reopening on September 1. These measures are critical to  allowing these species to reproduce and maintain healthy populations for future generations. The  protection of these species is essential to sustaining the balance of the marine ecosystem.

“These species play an essential role in the marine food web. By ensuring that they can  reproduce and thrive, we are securing food sources for today and for generations to come,”  explained Fisheries Officer Crofton Stroud. “These living creatures are not immortal, and we  must protect them, as they are vital to the ocean’s health and the food security of future  generations.”

Stroud underscored the importance of protecting migratory species, as harm to these populations  can have a ripple effect beyond Grenada’s borders. Countries around the world rely on  international agencies, such as the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species  (CITES), the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), and the International  Commission for the Conservation of Atlantic Tunas (ICCAT), to monitor and regulate the trade  and harvest of these species. Grenada remains committed to working with these organisations to  ensure that we uphold international standards of conservation and respect on the global stage.

Additionally, Levera Beach will be closed from April 1 to August 31 to protect the leatherback  turtles, which are known to nest on the beach. All prohibitive measures and penalties for  violating these regulations are in effect during this period.

Anyone found harvesting turtles or their eggs, or engaging in poaching activities, will face  penalties. Offenders may be fined up to 5,000 EC dollars, imprisoned for up to two years, or  both, as determined by the court.

“We urge everyone to be mindful of these regulations. These efforts help rebuild the stocks of  turtles, lobsters, and sea urchins. By adhering to these seasonal closures, we can ensure the  survival and future of these species,” said Fisheries Officer Tabia Paul.

The Ministry of Blue Economy and Marine Affairs urges the public to respect the seasonal  closures to protect Grenada’s valuable marine life. This is a collective effort to safeguard the  future of our oceans, ensuring that future generations can continue to benefit from the abundance  of marine resources.