Gulf Shores, Ala. – (OBA) –  Share the Beach, established in 2005, is dedicated to protecting endangered sea turtles that nest on Alabama's beaches from May through October. Volunteers play a crucial role in this mission by patrolling beaches, educating the public and school groups, conducting late-night nest observations, and assisting with supply and equipment preparations. 

The program's objectives include mitigating human-related impacts on sea turtles, especially those caused by artificial light pollution; monitoring sea turtle nests and hatchlings along Alabama's coastline; and promoting conservation through public outreach and education.

The Alabama Coastal Foundation's Share the Beach program is hosting a volunteer kickoff meeting on Tuesday, March 18, at 6:00 p.m. at the Erie Meyer Civic Center, located at 1930 West 2nd Street, Gulf Shores, AL 36542. This event is essential for new volunteers interested in participating in sea turtle conservation efforts along Alabama's Gulf Coast, as attendance is mandatory for newcomers and encouraged for returning volunteers.

For those unable to attend the Gulf Shores meeting, an additional session is scheduled for Thursday, March 20, at 6:00 p.m. in Shelby Auditorium at the Dauphin Island Sea Lab, located at 101 Bienville Boulevard, Dauphin Island, AL 36528.

Prospective volunteers are encouraged to attend one of these meetings to learn more about the program and how they can contribute to preserving Alabama's sea turtle population. For more information, visit the Alabama Coastal Foundation's website at https://www.joinacf.org/stb or contact Share the Beach Director, Rachael Holdsworth, at rholdsworth@joinACF.org.