The Puerto Vallarta City Council has unanimously approved a new initiative to strengthen sea turtle conservation efforts at the Nakawe Wildlife School and Turtle Camp on Boca de Tomates beach, providing much-needed equipment and supplies to the environmental brigades that protect turtle nests along the coast.
The proposal, presented by Councilwoman Melissa Madero during the council’s most recent regular session, received the support of all 14 council members in attendance. The initiative recognizes the important work of volunteers and conservation specialists who monitor nesting beaches, rescue vulnerable nests, and help protect one of Vallarta’s most iconic marine species.
During her presentation, Madero emphasized that supporting the camp is an investment not only in wildlife conservation but also in environmental education, helping residents and visitors better understand the importance of protecting sea turtles and their natural habitat.
The approved initiative includes materials to improve the camp’s infrastructure, such as shade netting, wooden boards, poles, and tarpaulins to reinforce work areas and provide better protection for turtle nests and conservation activities.
Additional equipment will include maintenance tools such as chainsaws and shovels, along with logistical support, electrical service, signage, and security measures designed to improve operations throughout the nesting season. Environmental brigades will also receive supplies to assist with their daily beach patrols, nest monitoring, and rescue efforts.
The support comes as the camp continues recovering from the damage caused by Hurricane Priscilla on October 7, 2025. Powerful waves nearly destroyed the Boca de Tomates facility, but the quick response of dedicated volunteers allowed conservation work to continue without interruption. Since then, the team has rebuilt much of the camp using natural materials and installed protective netting, although additional improvements are still needed.
Council members agreed that protecting Boca de Tomates is especially important because it is one of Puerto Vallarta’s primary sea turtle nesting beaches. With the initiative now approved, the municipal government will move forward with providing the equipment and supplies needed to strengthen the camp’s conservation efforts.
Located on the beach directly behind Puerto Vallarta’s international airport, the Boca de Tomates Saving Sea Turtles sanctuary has become one of the area’s most successful conservation projects. The camp reports releasing an average of 60,000 hatchling sea turtles into the Pacific Ocean each year, giving visitors the opportunity to witness and participate in one of nature’s most inspiring events through scheduled turtle release programs.
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