March 30, 2026 — For decades the green sea turtle has been protected under the Endangered Species Act, but with the populations now recovering, members of the Western Pacific Regional Fishery Management Council resurrected conversations on restoring culturally important sea turtle harvesting during its recent meeting in Hawaii.
At the heart of the conversation is the long-overdue question, “What recovery could mean not only for conservation, but also for the possible return of cultural stewardship and sustainable use in the Western Pacific?” according to a release from the council.
The council recognized that the green sea turtle, although protected, also has played a role in cultures of the Western Pacific.