Starting January 1, the harvesting and trade of sea turtles is banned under Saint Lucia’s annual conservation measures.
Starting January 1, the harvesting and trade of sea turtles is banned under Saint Lucia’s annual conservation measures, the government has announced.
Saint Lucia’s sea turtle fishing season will officially close from January 1, 2026.
In a release issued on December 23, the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries said all harvesting, sale and consumption of sea turtle meat must cease by the end of December 31, 2025.
According to the ministry, the law prohibits the harvesting, sale, purchasing and consumption of sea turtles during the closed season. This includes the whole animal, any part of it, or its by-products such as meat, shell or other parts.
Under the Fisheries Act, anyone found in possession of a sea turtle, or any part or by-product, is liable to a fine of up to EC$5 000.
The closed season coincides with peak periods when sea turtles are reproducing and is intended to allow populations to mature and recover. The ministry warned that non-compliance with the closure could result in an extended closed season.
Fisherfolk, vendors and members of the public are being urged to adhere to the regulations and to report anyone found in possession of sea turtles, or their by-products, to the Praedial Larceny Unit, Marine Police, the nearest police station or the Department of Fisheries.
Under the Fisheries Act, anyone found in possession of a sea turtle, or any part or by-product, is liable to a fine of up to EC$5 000.
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this should be illegal. end of.