TradeWinds reports first turtle hatching in 28 years
Article published on Thursday, Sept. 18, 2008 |
ST. PETE BEACH - The TradeWinds Island Resorts recently announced its first turtle hatching in 28 years.
According to a press release, 83 baby turtles emerged from their shells in August and made their way safely to the warm waters of the Gulf of Mexico.
The TradeWinds Island Resorts - the Island Grand Resort and the Sandpiper Hotel & Suites - are located on the Gulf of Mexico on the island of St. Pete Beach.
TradeWinds officials attributed the successful hatching to the work of their “tireless volunteers” and the new turtle-friendly amber lighting. Certified by an Environmental Specialist II with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Committee, the unique new amber LED flood light, designed by the Lighting Science Group, is a lower impact light that is more pleasing to humans and turtles alike.
"The TradeWinds Island Grand is the first in the state to do a major retrofit to meet wildlife lighting requirements that balance sea turtle survival with human safety and security," said Dean Gallagher with the FFWCC.
More than 20 years ago, TradeWinds was the first property to voluntarily plant their own sea oats along their beach. Sea oats are an effective sand-binding grass, which aides in the formation and stabilization of dunes and creates a natural habitat for sea turtle nesting.
In April, the TradeWinds Island Grand Resort and TradeWinds Sandpiper Suites were Florida's second and third properties to receive the Green Lodging Program Two Palm designation from the Florida Department of Environmental Protection. The Two Palm designation recognizes increased energy conservation and pollution prevention measures since the properties' One Palm designation.
Both TradeWinds properties have been awarded the Green Lodging Certification from the Florida Department of Environmental Protection in recognition for their efforts to protect the area's natural resources. Florida's voluntary, non-regulatory Green Lodging Program works with the lodging industry to reduce waste and minimize pollution. TradeWinds' green initiatives include an extensive paper, cardboard and aluminum recycling program that involves guests, and participation in the Water CHAMPs program through the Southwest Florida Water Management District.
The resorts also use energy-efficient appliances that are Energy Star-rated, and high-efficiency air filters with an aggressive program to improve indoor air quality. A towel and linen reuse program is also utilized through housekeeping and all guestrooms are non-smoking.
For information, call toll-free 866-JUST LET GO (587-8538) or visit www.JustLetGo.com.
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Article published on Thursday, Sept. 18, 2008
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