Sand castle event at Main Beach highlights turtle awareness

By Dickie Anderson

Keep Nassau Beautiful and local graduate student Rhin Jones recently coordinated an event at Main Beach April 26, “The Last Castle on the Beach.” Small crowds gathered to watch international artists Andy Gertler from the Sand Master’s TV show, Sue Beatrice of Sand Sculpt USA, and local sculptor Jenn Cook create a “turtle conservation” themed sand sculpture at the Main Beach volleyball courts. Several groups shared educational materials at the event, including the Island Art Association, Amelia Island Sea Turtle Watch, and the Museum of Science & History (MOSH). The grand finale of the day, after the picture taking, was the crowd “smash down,” taking down the sculpture and adding the sand to the volleyball courts.

Attendees were reminded that sandcastles, holes, moats, and beach equipment like chairs and umbrellas can create dangerous obstacles for sea turtles searching for nesting spots. Once eggs hatch these obstacles can create traps for the small hatchlings trying to reach the water.

Jones organized the project as part of her master’s degree in biology through Miami University’s Project Dragonfly. Among the program requirements is completion of a Community Leadership Challenge. Her goal was to plan an event using art to focus on a conservation issue. A brainstorming session came up with the “Last Sand Castle on the Beach” and sand artists Sue Beatrice and Andy Gerter agreed to come and sculpt.

The project reflects Keep Nassau Beautiful’s dedication to conservation, sustainability, and beautification efforts in Nassau County, Florida.