Discovery of nesting sea turtles could make case for restoring Louisiana island chain

For the first time in 75 years, scientists documented endangered sea turtles nesting on a Louisiana beach
Published: Oct. 30, 2024 at 2:20 PM CDT|Updated: Sep. 3, 2025 at 8:02 AM CDT

(InvestigateTV) — Barrier islands are critical to protecting coastal communities from extreme weather.

Many along the East Coast and Gulf of Mexico are disappearing at an alarming rate.

Louisiana’s Chandeleur Islands are no exception.

Researchers believe the islands are in danger of being submerged just in 20 years. While most people will never visit, this thin stretch of land is teeming with life.

Conservationists believe the discovery of a critically endangered species could make the case for restoring what experts call vitally important land.

Reporter Jon Snell explains what’s at stake.