Fishermen rescue cold-stunned turtles

By ARABELLA SERRATA
Staff Writer

In recent weeks, Sea Turtle Inc [STI] has worked relentlessly to save sea turtles impacted by the cold stuns that rippled through the Laguna Madre. This monumental task was not done alone; STI had the help of many volunteers get into the winter chill and help affected turtles get out of the cold, into the hospital and released back into the Gulf of Mexico.

Some of the volunteers were local fishermen, like T.J. Renya and Tim Gibson.

“It was great, it’s something I love to do,” said Renya. Renya has been helping STI with these cold stun events frequently in the past four years, going so far as to include his whole family in the activity.

“We love it, the whole community comes together, everyone sees each other, everyone helps each other, and everyone is saving a life,” said Renya.

Gibson says he volunteered for STI because he had the time and resources. Initially, he tried to help independently but contacted Renya for help.

“He came out and helped me put turtles on the boat,” said Gibson.

On Jan. 24, Gibson was loaned a boat by Captain George Strader, owner of Towboat US for Arroyo City and Port Isabel, and monitored water temperatures and picked up more turtles. According to Gibson, he was assisted by STI Director Of Animal Care Chris Gorman.

“I helped because I knew they needed help. I am a fishing captain. I’m out on the water taking fish out all the time. It’s just good to help out and help the resources as well,” said Gibson.

Gibson added that he tries to be conservative with how much fish he takes out of the water. According to Gibson, he does everything he can to ensure only the bare minimum of fish are taken to limit the overconsumption of local resources.

Gibson encourages the public to volunteer with STI.

“I think more people should get involved and help out,” said Gibson.

While the circumstances can be harsh, Renya says that STI ensures smooth sailing during these cold stuns.
“They had everything together,” said Renya. “They always have everything under control… if anything ever happens, there is always someone or something to step in.”

According to his official listing on fishingbooker.com, Renya has been fishing since he was a young child and has had a successful career in fishing in his adulthood.

“For me, giving back to Laguna Madre helps me on my personal journey as a fishing captain,” said Renya.

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