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Fort Pierce Today
By the People, for the People
Florida Beach Erosion Threatens Sea Turtle Nesting
Restoration project may disrupt critical nesting season along Hutchinson Island
Mar. 16, 2026 at 3:41pm
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Erosion has significantly reduced sea turtle nesting habitat along a mile-long stretch of beach south of the Fort Pierce inlet jetty in Florida, with no mothers digging nests to lay eggs there so far this season. To make matters worse, a beach nourishment project to replenish the lost sand is set to begin during the crucial sea turtle nesting season, raising concerns from biologists about the potential impact on nesting and hatchling turtles.
Why it matters
Sea turtle nesting is a critical ecological process, and disruptions to nesting habitat and the nesting season can have serious consequences for these threatened and endangered species. The Fort Pierce area is part of Florida's most important sea turtle nesting region, so protecting this habitat is vital for the long-term survival of sea turtle populations.
The details
The beach nourishment project, led by the Army Corps of Engineers and Manson Construction Co., will place about 400,000 cubic yards of sand along the eroded stretch of beach. The work is scheduled to take place 24/7 from mid-March through mid-May, overlapping with the sea turtle nesting season that runs from March 1 through October 31. Biologists are concerned the noise, lights, and heavy equipment could deter turtles from nesting, cause nests to be buried too deep, or result in hatchlings becoming disoriented and wandering away from the ocean.
- The beach nourishment project is scheduled to begin as soon as March 16, 2026.
- The project is expected to be completed by mid-May 2026.
- Sea turtle nesting season in Florida runs from March 1 through October 31.
The players
Manson Construction Co.
The construction company hired by the Army Corps of Engineers to carry out the beach nourishment project.
Ecological Associates Inc.
The Jensen Beach-based company that will be responsible for relocating sea turtle nests as needed during the project.
Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC)
The state agency that provides guidelines and regulations for protecting sea turtle nesting habitats in Florida.
What’s next
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission will be closely monitoring the beach nourishment project and its impact on sea turtle nesting. Biologists will be working to relocate any nests that are at risk of being disturbed by the construction activities.
The takeaway
This situation highlights the delicate balance between coastal development, erosion control, and protecting critical wildlife habitats. While the beach nourishment project is intended to restore the eroded shoreline, the timing of the work during sea turtle nesting season raises concerns about the potential unintended consequences for these threatened species. Careful planning and mitigation efforts will be crucial to minimize the impact on sea turtles.
