Individuals and organizations engaged in marine turtle conservation work outside of the United States and its territories again have the opportunity to apply for a grant from the Marine Turtle Conservation Fund (MTCF).

The primary purpose of the Marine Turtle Conservation Act (MTCA) of 2004 is to provide financial support for projects that conserve nesting populations and habitat and address other threats to the survival of marine turtles throughout their range. Projects focusing on the conservation of marine turtles (Chelonia mydas, Caretta caretta, Dermochelys coriacea, Eretmochelys imbricata, Lepidochelys olivacea, Lepidochelys kempii) will be considered.

There are two deadlines in 2018, one on 22 January for project proposals that involve work on nesting beaches that begin April through June, and one on 1 April for those involving work on nesting beaches that begin October through November. Projects involving work not linked directly to nesting seasons such as fisheries bycatch reduction, regional meetings or outreach and education campaigns can submit applications at either deadline.

More information can be found at https://www.fws.gov/international/grants-and-reporting/how-to-apply.html. The IOSEA Marine Turtle MOU Secretariat would appreciate being kept informed about any successful applications in the MOU area.