Local Ocean Conservation is a private, not-for-profit organisation committed to the protection of Kenya’s marine environment. We love our local ocean and we use practical conservation, community involvement and development, education, research and campaigning to promote the sustainable use of Kenya’s marine resources.
Watamu Turtle Watch is our flagship programme. It was started by local residents in 1997 to protect nesting sea turtles. Now it sits under ocean conservation along with Diani Turtle Watch, Bycatch release, beach profiling and specialist Rehabilitation Centre for sick and injured sea turtles. The combination of ocean conservation, education and outreach programmes enables us to make a real difference in ensuring the future of the marine environment.
Ocean Conservation
Watamu Turtle watch
Beach Monitors patrol the beaches every night to keep the turtles and their nests safe.
Diani Turtle Watch
Diani Turtle Watch (DTW) is a programme of Local Ocean Conservation, started in 2012.
Bycatch Release
Hundreds of turtles are rescued every year by working closely with the fishing community.
Turtle Rehabilitation Centre
Sick and injured turtles are monitored, nursed back to health and then returned to the ocean.
Beach profiling
This programme allows us to investigate seasonal changes in the beach profile, compare beach profiles in different locations along the beach
Education
Education and Awareness
We organise visits to our headquarters for students as well as providing educational outreach to schools and involving students in field excursions.
Internships
Our internship programme was started in 2016 and a total of 28 Interns have participated in this programme.
Community Outreach
LOC are currently engaged with 26 local community groups in order to raise awareness about conservation issues as well as support capacity building and training.