Puerto Vallarta, Mexico - As part of the Sea Turtle Conservation and Care Program implemented by the Puerto Vallarta municipal government in June, last week saw the first turtle release of the season, in which about 500 baby Olive Ridley turtles were returned to the sea.

The release ceremony, led by the Secretary General of the City Council, Victor Manuel Bernal Vargas, and the Director of Environment and Ecology, Juan José Navarro Amaral, brought about a thousand people together on Playa Camarones, where they received an informative talk about the characteristics of the Olive Ridleys that return to our beaches year after year to lay their eggs, their lifestyle, breeding season and the protective actions that are promoted in this city, as well as recommendations to assist in their preservation.

The secretary general of the council said that Puerto Vallarta is known for its rich biodiversity and, therefore, the municipal government is working with determination to ensure its preservation, in this case, through the care of turtles. "We are a destination that is committed one hundred percent to the conservation and protection of sea turtles. It is also an attraction for those who visit us at this time of year and can experience the magic of life through participating in a turtle release," he said.

He invited both Vallarta and tourists to join in the Sea Turtle Conservation effort by keeping our beaches clean; not throwing waste into the sea to avoid the risk of garbage being mistaken for food by turtles; and immediately alerting the authorities if you should encounter a nesting turtle or see someone causing damage to, or stealing eggs from, her nest. "These are simple ways that we can all contribute to the preservation and conservation of our turtles."

Victor Manuel Bernal said that the excellent turn-out at this first release speaks of the municipal program's success in actively involving the public in these tasks. "I hope this program continues attracting more people every day. We are delighted to see that so many citizens are committed to the conservation of flora and fauna in this town... and you can be sure that this program will continue with your support."