Gulf World Marine Institute (GWMI) is releasing a juvenile Kemp’s ridley and a juvenile green sea turtle back into the gulf on Tuesday morning, July 8, 2025 at 9:00 am EST* at Salinas Park, Gulfside, 380 Cape San Blas Rd, Port St Joe, FL 32456. Please note again that the park has parking lots facing both St. Joseph Bay and the Gulf; the release will be on the gulf side (south side of the road).
*Please note that the Facebook event is set for 8:45am Eastern Time to encourage guests to arrive early and get a good spot!
“Marianna” stranded in Gulf County on May 12th, 2025 with a hook in his/her left shoulder, another in the esophagus, and fishing line coming from the mouth. Upon arrival to GWMI Marianna received a full veterinary exam and was also diagnosed with severe pneumonia. After a successful hook removal procedure and treatment for the pneumonia, Marianna has been cleared for release!
“Pip,” who was affectionately named after his/her adorably tiny size, stranded in Bay County on May 21st, 2025 after being found washed ashore in rough surf. Pip was then transported to GWMI where he/she was able to regain energy and a healthy appetite. After a little over one month of rehabilitation, Pip has a clean bill of health and is ready to be returned back to the gulf!
Gulf World Marine Institute is very grateful to those involved in the rescue and transport of these sea turtles, including Gulf & East Bay Sea Turtle Patrol and Panama City Beach Turtle Watch! These turtles have been medically cleared by veterinary staff and have been cleared for release by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. The public is invited to attend this event. Please keep in mind this event is subject to change based on weather conditions.
GWMI would like to thank everyone involved in the rescue of stranded sea turtles. If you see a stranded or deceased dolphin, whale or sea turtle, please immediately report to Florida Fish &
Wildlife Conservation Commission, 1-888-404-3922 or #FWC on your cell phone.
Also check out other Sports events in Port Saint Joe, Health & Wellness events in Port Saint Joe.
