Conference – Gaining a Better Understanding of Sea Turtles with the IMPACS Project
On Wednesday January 15 2025, the association Te mana o te moana had the pleasure of organizing an engaging conference at the Fare Te mana o te moana, located within the tropical setting of the InterContinental Tahiti Resort & Spa in Faa'a. This event brought together ocean enthusiasts, curious minds, and committed stakeholders united by a common cause: the preservation of sea turtles in the South Pacific.
Discovering the IMPACS Project: An Initiative for Science and Citizens
The event served to unveil the IMPACS project – Initiative for the Knowledge and Conservation of Hawksbill Turtles in the South Pacific. This ambitious project aims to improve understanding and protection of sea turtles, particularly the hawksbill turtle (Eretmochelys imbricata), an iconic and endangered species.
Two Territories, One Mission: Wallis and Futuna & French Polynesia
Jointly implemented in Wallis and Futuna and French Polynesia, the IMPACS project is designed to be participatory, sustainable, and science-based. It aims to:
- Strengthen both scientific and traditional knowledge about sea turtles;
- Create a citizen science network, with local training sessions and outreach activities;
- Establish a shared data collection protocol for nesting female turtles, particularly green and hawksbill turtles.
An Engaging Conference for All Audiences
During this conference, participants had the opportunity to:
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Understand the challenges of sea turtle conservation in our territories;
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Discover the initial stages of the IMPACS project;
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Engage with marine wildlife experts and project leaders.
Join the Te mana o te moana network of observers.
Would you like to take concrete action for the preservation of sea turtles ? The IMPACS project allows you to get involved at your own level as an observer. With simple tools and tailored training, you can contribute to collecting essential data for the protection of these species.
