Calendar of Events:

• August 20: SciSalon@BT: “Turtle Tears:  Sea Turtle Conservation from Brazil to Florida’s Gulf Coast”

• August 31: Gold Medal Award Nominations due

• September 17: SciSalon@BT: Dr. Greg Boebinger (Title TBA)

Regarding the talk’s title: in addition to their kidneys, sea turtles eliminate excess marine salt through specialized glands located near their eyes. This can make them look like they are crying. These secretions may also help rinse sand from their eyes while females dig their nests.

Marine biologist Armando Barsante Santos has spent more than 25 years working with sea turtles, from conservation efforts in Brazil to current research in Florida’s Gulf Coast. In this SciSalon, he will share field stories, introduce sea turtle ecology, and discuss how boat traffic and other human activities affect turtles in local waters. He will also highlight the Boaters for Turtles campaign and simple ways people can help reduce risks to sea turtles.

Gold Medal Award 2026

Nominations Open NOW!

Established in 2004, the Gold Medal Award is given each year by the Tallahassee Scientific Society to a scientist or scholar whose career achievements in science or science outreach are considered exemplary. The award presentation and public lecture are held in January and are preceded by a community reception.

TSS members are invited to nominate a candidate from the Big Bend region during the current nomination period. The online nomination form is now available, and submissions may be made directly to the Board of Directors for consideration. Nominations are due August 31. The form can be accessed HERE!