Conservation Efforts:
• Green sea turtles are protected by national and state laws, as well as international treaties. They are listed on the Endangered Species List -- listed as endangered in the state of Florida and as threatened in other state coastal areas where they are found.
• Bycatch of green sea turtles (accidental capture by commercial and sport fishermen) is being reduced by fishing gear modifications (i.e. use of TED’s or turtle exclusion devices), changes to fishing practices and closures of certain areas to fishing during nesting and hatching seasons.
• Designation of critical habitat areas in coastal waters around parts of Puerto Rico.
• Encourage use of low pressure sodium lighting along beach nesting areas
• Regular monitoring of green sea turtle populations by NOAA's National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS).