TAKE ACTION THIS
This Giving Tuesday, we ask: Will you join us in protecting the leatherback sea turtle and preserving the health of our oceans?
Together, we can make a tangible impact and safeguard the future of marine life for generations to come. Your support today will help us take meaningful action to protect these endangered creatures and their vital habitats.
Now, more than ever, we recognize the profound impact humanity has on the planet’s ecosystems and the biodiversity that sustains life on Earth. As we face an environmental crisis, we all share the responsibility to act—and there is no time to waste.
Among the most urgent concerns is the future of the leatherback sea turtle. Out of the seven subpopulations of leatherbacks, four are critically endangered, one is endangered, and two are data deficient. These magnificent creatures, who have roamed the oceans for millions of years, now face unprecedented threats that endanger their survival.
The Leatherback Project was founded to address these challenges, with a focused commitment to the conservation of leatherbacks and the health of our oceans. Through research, advocacy, and community-driven solutions, we work tirelessly to ensure a future where these ancient reptiles continue to thrive.
Discover how you can become involved in our latest research projects and make a difference today!
THE TIME FOR ACTION IS NOW
More than any other time in history, society understands the ways in which we are altering the planet's natural systems and the composition of biodiversity of life on earth. We have a responsibility to act. Out of the 7 subpopulations of the leatherback sea turtle, 4 are critically endangered, 1 is endangered and 2 are data deficient. The Leatherback Project exists to combat the environmental crisis with a specific focus on leatherback conservation and ocean health
Will you join us in protecting this ancient reptile?
Extinction is Forever
The Leatherback Project is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization dedicated to protecting the leatherback sea turtle and other threatened and endangered marine species through research, education, and advocacy initiatives primarily aimed at mitigating fisheries bycatch, designating and implementing marine protected areas, and advocating for the intrinsic Rights of Nature. As sea turtles are flagship species, by studying them and the threats facing their survival, we can open the doors to conversations about the biggest threats facing our oceans today.
Jonah Reenders
Our Mission
Restored balance, decreased anthropogenic pressures on overexploited resources and a sustainable future for the world’s ocean ecosystems and coastal habitats, allowing for the recovery of endangered wildlife, like the leatherback sea turtle.
Meet the Team
Callie Veelenturf
Founder / Executive Director
Luis Paladines
Projects Coordinator
Ecuador
Amanda Rocafuerte
Country Director
Ecuador
Aida (Aidita) Magaña
Community Leader
Pearl Islands Archipelago Mission Blue Hope Spot Champion
Panama
Nikki Riddy
Director of Impact Media
Ariel Cajar
Boat Captain / Ecotourism Guide
Panama
Wiguidili Crespo
Undergraduate Thesis Student
Panama
Lineylis (Liz) Rios
Undergraduate Thesis Student
Panama
Ibdiel Guitierrez
Youth Leader
Panama
Marino Abrego
Research Associate
Liaison - Ministry of
the Environment
Panama