SANTO DOMINGO – The Eco-Bahia Foundation and Aeropuertos Dominicanos Siglo XXI (AERODOM) signed an inter-institutional cooperation agreement to strengthen sea turtle conservation efforts in the Dominican Republic. The signing ceremony took place at Presidente Juan Bosch International Airport (El Catey), located in the province of Samaná, near one of the beaches historically used by sea turtles for nesting.
This agreement represents an important step in strengthening the nest monitoring and nest protection program that the Eco-Bahia Foundation carries out on 8 beaches throughout the country, and responds to the commitment of the private sector to the protection of endangered species, according to a press release.
In this area, the recorded nesting species is the leatherback sea turtle (Dermochelys coriacea), also known as the leatherback, the largest of the sea turtles and one of the most threatened globally. This species is especially vulnerable to nest poaching, illegal egg consumption, and habitat alteration.
Representatives of the signatory entities. (EXTERNAL SOURCE).
“The conservation of sea turtles is an urgent task that requires intersectoral collaboration. With this agreement, we are joining forces with AERODOM to protect a critically endangered species and, at the same time, strengthen environmental education and community participation, in order to leave a positive impact on our coastal communities and biodiversity,” stated Alex Matás, Director of the Eco-Bahia Foundation in the Dominican Republic.
ex-situ incubation hatchery for leatherback turtle eggs will be installed within the airport, in a secure, properly protected space under constant supervision. This hatchery will increase hatchling survival rates by safeguarding the eggs in controlled conditions, minimizing the risks associated with looting, flooding, or predation in their natural habitat.
“In addition to strengthening monitoring and direct protection of nests, the agreement includes the development of a conservation campaign focused on reducing the consumption of sea turtle eggs, a practice that persists in some coastal communities despite being prohibited by law. This campaign will include environmental education, community outreach, media engagement, and collaboration with local leaders, with the aim of transforming cultural perceptions and generating positive change toward the conservation of this emblematic species,” it states.
It adds that airport staff training will also be implemented, along with signage and environmental monitoring to prevent disturbances in nearby nesting areas. In coordination with environmental authorities, the active participation of neighboring communities will also be promoted, fostering a culture of protection and respect for marine biodiversity.
With this agreement, the Eco-Bahia Foundation and AERODOM reaffirm their commitment to sustainability, environmental responsibility and the conservation of endangered species, promoting a responsible airport development model compatible with the protection of the natural heritage of the Dominican Republic.
