By JACQI LEYVA-HILL
Special to the PRESS
Sea Turtle Inc. is inviting residents to give their natural Christmas trees a second life this holiday season by donating them to support dune restoration and sea turtle conservation efforts. The organization has been recycling Christmas trees for more than a decade, using them to help build up coastal dunes and provide added protection for its important hatchling corral.
Each year, Sea Turtle Inc. typically receives around 50 donated trees, and staff say they would be excited to see that number grow this season. The effort is simple but effective. Once collected, the trees are placed on the beach, where they help trap and hold sand. Over time, this process strengthens the dunes, creating a natural barrier that enhances protection for the hatchling corral.
“All endangered sea turtle nests laid on our beaches are moved to our protective hatchling corral,” explained Dr. Amy Bonka, the Chief Conservation Officer of Sea Turtle, Inc. “The dunes help protect this corral throughout the year, and especially during nesting season, helping ensure the baby sea turtles get the best start at life.”
Hatchlings along the South Padre Island coastline face several threats, including predators such as coyotes, raccoons, and birds, as well as beach driving and high tides. By reinforcing the dunes surrounding the corral, the recycled Christmas trees play a direct role in improving survival conditions for these vulnerable young turtles.
Residents wishing to participate may drop off natural, undecorated trees at the Sea Turtle Inc. Education Building, located behind the new hospital. The designated drop-off area is in the grassy section next to the main gate and is clearly marked with signs. Trees may be delivered daily from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. through January 4. All decorations must be removed beforehand, including lights, tinsel, and ornaments. Artificial and flocked trees cannot be accepted.
Even community members without trees can take part in supporting conservation efforts. Dr. Bonka
shared that people are encouraged to visit the facility, donate, volunteer, or even adopt a nest or patient through Sea Turtle Inc.’s programs.
Looking back over the years, staff have seen the ongoing benefits of the program as dunes continue to grow and provide year-round protection to the hatchling corral. Dr. Bonka added a simple encouragement to residents: recycling a Christmas tree is an easy way to help both sea turtles and the environment. “Even after the holidays, your Christmas tree can continue to spread joy and make a difference for sea turtles,” she said.
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