Coastal Connections Vero Beach – Sea Turtle Conservation & Events

How Coastal Connections Is Helping Sea Turtles Thrive in Vero Beach

If you’ve ever walked the beaches of Vero and spotted a staked-off area in the sand or a bright blue ribbon near a sea turtle nest, chances are it was placed there by Coastal Connections, Inc.

This Vero Beach-based nonprofit is on the front lines of sea turtle conservation — and doing far more than most people realize. In our three-part conversation on the Vero Beach Podcast, we sat down with Kendra Bergman, Executive Director and founder of Coastal Connections, to hear how her team is working to protect one of Florida’s most beloved marine species.

🎧 Listen to Episode 1 – Meet Kendra + Sea Turtle 101

Meet the Woman Behind the Mission

Kendra Bergman blends science, education, and a contagious passion for conservation. What started as a calling to help turtles has grown into a nonprofit that empowers the Vero Beach community to care for its coastline and the creatures who depend on it.

In Part 1 of our podcast, she shares her journey from marine biologist to nonprofit founder — and why Vero Beach is one of the most important nesting grounds in the United States.

Why Sea Turtles Matter to Vero Beach (and the Planet)

Vero Beach borders the Archie Carr National Wildlife Refuge, one of the most critical nesting habitats for loggerhead, green, and leatherback turtles. Every year, thousands of these fascinating travelers crawl ashore to lay their eggs.

But survival isn’t guaranteed. Sea turtles are still protected under the Endangered Species Act, and their role in marine ecosystems is vital. They carry nutrients between coral reefs, fertilize dunes when unhatched eggs decompose, and help support food chains at every stage of life. As Kendra explains:

“They’re one of the few species in the world that move between water and land. Without them, there’s a risk of collapse in multiple ecosystems.”

What Coastal Connections Does (And How It Works)

Coastal Connections blends science, conservation, and community outreach into year-round programs.

Turtle Walks & Digs: Nighttime Turtle Walks let the public observe nesting loggerheads, while daytime Turtle Digs allow visitors to view nest evaluations — sometimes with hatchlings making their first crawl. These events double as data collection and education opportunities.

🎧 Listen to Episode 2 – Behind the Scenes + Turtle Digs Explained

Rescue & Cleanups: The team responds to calls about sick or injured sea turtles, while also hosting both public and private coastal cleanups. Beach Basket Stations make it easy for anyone to grab reusable gear and join in.

Recycling Plastic Film: Coastal Connections partners with more than 50 local businesses to collect plastic bags, wraps, and mailers. Over 10,000 pounds have been recycled this year alone, with Trex® repurposing it into decking and outdoor furniture.

Who Can Help? (Spoiler: Everyone.)

One of the things that sets Coastal Connections apart is its focus on empowerment, not guilt. As Kendra says:

“We don’t say, ‘Don’t do this.’ We say, ‘Did you know…?’”

Their outreach spans all ages and groups. Local schools participate in science programs, volunteers train to support research and events, businesses partner to reduce single-use plastics, and festival booths bring conservation to the community in approachable ways.

5 Easy Ways You Can Help Sea Turtles in Indian River County

• Bring reusable bags to stores and avoid single-use plastic
• Use refillable bottles or canned water instead of disposable plastic
• Avoid beach lights during turtle season (March–October)
• Don’t dig holes or leave furniture out overnight
• Support nonprofits like Coastal Connections by donating or volunteering

🎧 Listen to Episode 3 – How Vero Beach Locals Can Help Every Day

Final Thoughts

Sea turtles are resilient — but they still need our help. Coastal Connections proves that even a small town like Vero Beach can make a global impact. So next time you see a marked turtle nest or a cleanup underway, take a moment to thank the volunteers. Better yet, join them.

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Connect with Coastal Connections in Vero Beach

📍 Location: Vero Beach, FL
🌐 Website: coastal-connections.org
📱 Instagram: @coastalconnections_inc
🎟️ Events: Turtle Walks, Turtle Digs, Shellabration, Tipsy Turtle Fun Run
🧃 Support Their Mission: Volunteer, donate, or sponsor a turtle nest
🐢 Be turtle-friendly. Be part of the success story.