Congressman Mike Haridopolos has secured a $1.75 million federal grant to build a new sea turtle care complex at Brevard Zoo's Bowen Aquarium. The funding was announced Thursday during a virtual press conference. The complex will focus on rehabilitation, research, and public education about sea turtles in Brevard County. Haridopolos called the project a priority for the Space Coast. 'This investment will protect one of our most vulnerable species,' he said. 'It also strengthens our community's role in marine conservation.'
The grant comes from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service's Partners for Fish and Wildlife Program. It will cover construction and equipment costs for the facility, which is expected to open in early 2025. The 5,000-square-foot space will include indoor and outdoor enclosures, a medical treatment area, and interactive exhibits. Brevard Zoo CEO Brian Dunning said the facility will treat up to 200 sea turtles annually. 'We've seen a 40% increase in stranded turtles since 2020,' he noted. 'This complex will help us save more lives.'
The facility will also expand the zoo's existing sea turtle program, which has treated over 1,200 turtles since 2018. Staff will conduct studies on turtle health, habitat restoration, and the effects of plastic pollution. The public education component includes a planned outreach program for local schools. 'We want to show kids how their actions impact marine life,' said zoo educator Sarah Mitchell. 'This isn't just about saving turtles—it's about protecting our coast.'
Haridopolos' office said the grant was the result of months of negotiations with federal agencies. The project is part of a larger effort to boost wildlife conservation in Florida. Brevard County officials praised the funding, calling it a 'game-changer' for the region. The zoo plans to break ground in late 2024, with construction managed by local contractors.