New net could make it easier to rescue sea turtles

NAVARRE, Fla. – The rescues of two sea turtles within the last month on Florida's Panhandle might lead to a new and improved device to bring the animals to land after they get hooked on a fisherman's line.

The Pensacola News-Journal reports the Navarre Beach Sea Turtle Conservation Center is working to secure a patent for a new and bigger net to make it easier for pier staff to lift larger sea turtles onto the pier after they're caught.

The organization is working with a local resident on the larger and bulkier net, which has a wider opening that will more easily slide under a sea turtle during a rescue.

They submitted paperwork to the U.S. Patent Office this month for the net.

It will be employed when working with larger sea turtles -- of all different kinds -- that can weigh up to hundreds of pounds.