OhmIQ Supports Sea Turtle Release at Folly Beach

On August 27, the South Carolina Aquarium released five juvenile Kemp’s Ridley sea turtles; Seashore Mallow, Sunflower, Marigold, Hyacinth and Sweet Caroline, back into the Atlantic Ocean after successful rehabilitation. These turtles, the smallest and most endangered sea turtle species in the world, had been rescued earlier this summer after being caught on fishing hooks. Thanks to quick intervention and expert care at the Aquarium’s Sea Turtle Care Center, their injuries healed fully, making this joyful return to the ocean possible.

Why This Matters

Kemp’s Ridleys are critically endangered, with only a fraction of their historic population left in the wild. Every successful rescue, recovery, and release represents a vital step toward the survival of the species. Supporting this work aligns closely with OhmIQ’s values: protecting ecosystems, ensuring clean water, and advancing sustainability for both people and planet.

A Community Effort

The release drew a crowd of hundreds who gathered on Folly Beach to witness the turtles’ journey home. Children held signs cheering them on, one young supporter even raised $500 for the Care Center and proudly accompanied Sweet Caroline to the water’s edge. The moment became unforgettable when some in the crowd began singing “Sweet Caroline” as the turtle with the same name flippered into the waves.

Looking Ahead

For the Aquarium’s staff, the release was bittersweet. “We always say it’s like sending your kids off to college,” said Care Center manager Melissa Ranly. “You hope that you’ve prepared them well, and that they’re going to thrive. We always tell them to make good choices, stay away from fishing piers and boats.”

As the turtles disappeared into the surf, the crowd lingered to collect seashells, knowing they had witnessed something rare: the successful return of endangered animals to their rightful home. For the turtles; Seashore Mallow, Sunflower, Marigold, Hyacinth and Sweet Caroline. The day marked not an ending, but a new beginning.

About the Care Center

Since its founding in 2017, the South Carolina Aquarium’s Sea Turtle Care Center has rehabilitated and released nearly 500 turtles. It remains the only sea turtle hospital in the state, caring for animals from the entire coastline.

📸 See highlights from the release on our Instagram
Learn more about the South Carolina Aquarium at scaquarium.org

Have any questions? Email us at contact@ohmiq.com