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Media inquiries: Please contact Dave Neudeck, dave.neudeck@dcr.virginia.gov, 804-786-5053.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: May 03, 2023
Contact: Kim Wells, Public Relations and Marketing Specialist, 804-217-1077, kim.wells@dcr.virginia.gov

Turtle “Shell-ebretion” to be held at Twin Lakes State Park
Experience a close-up visit with Ranger Myrtle the Turtle

(Editors: Follow this link to download an image. Photo caption: Red-eared slider sunbathing)

RICHMOND – The Friends of Twin Lakes State Park will be hosting its first annual “shell-ebration” of World Turtle Day® on Saturday, May 20 from 1 p.m. until 4 p.m. in the Discovery Area.

This family friendly event will include the following activities: turtle-themed games and face painting, a “shell-fie” photo station with wearable turtle shells, visits from turtle experts and Central Virginia Reptile Rescue, as well as beloved local “shell-ebrity” Ranger Myrtle the turtle.

“I love working with Myrtle because she is such a great ambassador for turtles worldwide,” said Twin Lakes State Park Chief Ranger of Visitor Experience Breanna Doll. “Turtle Day is a fun way to bring the community together and highlight the importance of turtles in the ecosystem. We will celebrate Ranger Myrtle and turtles around the world as we share the best ways to help these amazing animals.”

World Turtle Day was created as a yearly observance to help people celebrate and protect turtles. American Tortoise Rescue is a nonprofit organization that uses a sanctuary to assist and rehome turtles and tortoises.

“This event is perfect for kids of all ages as the Virginia state parks will also be celebrating National Kids to Parks Day,” said Twin Lakes State Park Manager Kevin Faubion. “This national day was created to connect families with the outdoors as well as to their local parks. The turtle ‘shell-ebration’ is a great way for us to showcase the turtles and natural wildlife that call the park home. Guests can have fun outdoors while discovering the importance of nature.”

The shell-ebration is free to attend, but the regular $7 parking fee does apply.

Turtle-themed merchandise will be available for purchase from the Friends of Twin Lakes State Park, an all-volunteer non-profit group that works to support Twin Lakes State Park through fundraising and volunteerism.

For more information about upcoming events at any of the 41 Virginia State Parks, visit www.virginiastateparks.gov.

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