On Sunday July 8, 2012 the Gulf World Marine Institute helped release a Loggerhead Sea Turtle named Basa, back into the Gulf of Mexico. Basa was a distressed turtle originally found by an attendee of the St. Vincent Wildlife Refuge's annual open house and rescued only to discover that the Loggerhead was very sick. He was quickly rescued and sent to the Gulf World Marine Institute for treatment.

Homecoming Party

Basa was met with onlookers and caring individuals that were happy to see him get back to his natural surroundings. He was released at the first beach access on Money Bayou at 10:30am. It was hard to tell how happy he was, but seems to be right where he needed to be back to. If Basa were to have released a statement, he probably would have said, "it went it swimmingly."

Experience Saves the Day

The expert staff at Gulf World Marine Institute had Basa as their patient for three months where he was diagnosed with pneumonia and gastrointestinal impaction. With excellent care and rehabilitation, Basa was seen to be fit for re-entry into the world in which he almost lost.

The importance of marine life preservation is key to keep environmental conditions balanced and beautiful. Without Basa and his aquatic pals, tourists and locals alike wouldn't have the opportunity to see nature at its finest. A pristine environment and ecosystem that affords us such an aesthetic wonderland.

Respect the Gulf

Keeping our beaches clean makes sure that situations like Basa's can be limited. So many individuals visit the Gulf Coast every year to bask in the moments that are picture perfect and without treating the beaches and environment locally, we could reduce the value of our region's greatest asset.

At the end of the day, Basa was back home and the people of the Gulf World Marine Institute were able to help out in the ways they know best. A true success story for everyone.

For more information about the author, Gus Penton, please visit their profile page.