One of EAI’s principal areas of specialization is sea turtle biology and conservation. EAI senior staff have participated in numerous sea turtle monitoring and applied research programs throughout Florida and the Caribbean. These programs have included nesting surveys, nest marking, caging and relocation programs, net capture of juvenile and adult turtles, tagging and recapture studies, coastal lighting evaluations, environmental impact assessments related to a variety of coastal construction and erosion control projects, and education and outreach. EAI staff are authorized to conduct these activities under Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) Marine Turtle Permits (MTP #010, #160, #162, and #261) issued to EAI’s Director of Operations, Niki Desjardin. Additionally, EAI scientists have been approved by the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) to serve as sea turtle observers during dredging operations.