The Wider Caribbean Sea Turtle Conservation Network (WIDECAST) works to ensure the recovery and sustainable management of sea turtle populations in the Caribbean. 

Threats to sea turtle populations include loss of nesting beaches, marine habitat degradation due to climate change and pollution, being hunted for their meat and caught as bycatch by fishing populations.

The Columbus Zoo's Involvement

• The Columbus Zoo supports WIDECAST educational programming. WIDECAST offers training, population monitoring and conducts science to inform legislation and policy. 
• Karen Eckert from WIDECAST was awarded the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium’s prestigious Commitment to Conservation Award in 2019.