Universidad Veracruzana – Mexico (2020)

The Veracruzano Coral Reef System National Marine Park (Parque Nacional Sistema Arrecifal Veracruzano) in Mexico, consists of six islands totaling 52,238 hectares (129,083 acres) that provide habitat for around 1,300 species of fauna, including Kemp’s ridley sea turtles. Veracruz is also the second most important trading port in the country, and the overlap of boats and marine life means that boats sometimes strike and kill turtles. Universidad Veracruzana will use its 2020 AZA-SAFE SWOT grant to lead an educational workshop in conjunction with park administration, local fishermen, and private tourist boats to help decrease sea turtle and boat interactions.