Kindergartners Mark 35th Annual Terrapin Release

June 3 marked the continuation of one of the amazing treasures that come with living on the Seven Mile Beach. It was the 35th annual Terrapin Release Program, a special partnership between the Stone Harbor Elementary School kindergarten and The Wetlands Institute.

Created 35 years ago by then-kindergarten teacher Roberta Dean and now maintained flawlessly by Brie Schenck, the children release terrapins that were raised from eggs rescued/salvaged from Cape May County roadways. To date, The Wetlands Institute has saved and released 6,000 terrapins.

The children spend the school year learning about terrapins in the classroom and even pitch in by selling homemade turtle-shaped cookies to raise money for The Wetlands Institute and support the program. The release is also annually supported by Sturdy Savings Bank.

The children are amazed year after year, watching their terrapins while learning about the fragile environment of the island that they live on. Thanks to everyone involved for caring enough to continue this wonderful program. We're also thankful to Mrs. Dean and Mrs. Schenck for their vision, guidance and mentorship.

And please take this opportunity to slow down for terrapins. Their nesting is at its peak now through early August.