Editor’s note: We have edited this press release to correct and clarify some information in keeping with Gazetted notices and legislation:
- Leatherback turtles are an endangered species, protected year-round by law; there is no closed/open “season” for leatherbacks in Grenada
- The closed season for lobsters is 1 May to 31 August 2025
- The closed season for turtles and sea urchins (sea eggs) is 1 April to 31 August 2025
The Ministry of Blue Economy and Marine Affairs advises the fishing population of Grenada that the closed season for turtles and sea urchins will begin on 1 April 2025.
As part of ongoing conservation efforts, the lobster season will be closed for 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, no lobsters must be harvested to allow them to complete their reproductive cycle.
The closed season for turtles and sea urchins will begin on 1 April and extend until 31 August, with the season reopening on 1 September. These measures are critical to allowing these species to reproduce and maintain healthy populations for future generations. Protecting 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 ripple 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 1 April to 31 August to protect the Leatherback turtles 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 will face penalties. Offenders may be fined up to EC$5,000, imprisoned for up to 2 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.
Adapted from press release by GIS/Ministry of Agriculture and Lands, Forestry, and Marine Resources
There is no reason to allow the killing of turtles which I see weekly being hacked to death. Stop Killing Turtles
I agree, turtles should be protected and those that kill them should face harsh legal action.