This Summer, Exelon and Delmarva Power volunteers travelled to Port Mahon, Del. to assist in Operation Terrapin Rescue. Diamond-backed terrapins in the area during the early summer face challenges when attempting to nest. Navigating rock piles and crossing a road to get to their nesting habitat can pose great challenges to them since being struck by a vehicle or trapped in the rocks has led to an increase in terrapin mortality.
The team managed to assist 14 terrapins during one volunteer shift. There was even an opportunity to see a terrapin at a nesting area. Charles May, Supervisor of Gas Regulatory at Delmarva Power, who lead the volunteer group for Exelon added; “Without assistance the Terrapins are susceptible to getting stuck in the rock wall and dying. By volunteering our time for this effort, our employees have helped to ensure the health and viability of the local wildlife, more specifically Diamond-back Terrapins.”
For many of the volunteers, this was their first experience taking part in Operation Terrapin Rescue. Aleksandra Slijepcevic, a Business Analyst from NERC Policy and Compliance with Pepco Holdings said, “This was my first volunteer opportunity with the company, and it was wonderful! Not only did I get a chance to help locally in my community, but I also got to witness these turtles in their natural habitat. It was a great chance to learn more about helping these turtles. Our team was great, and the entire effort was coordinated efficiently.”
Operation Terrapin Rescue is operated by the Delaware Division of Fish & Wildlife. If you are interested in participating in the program, contact Nate Nazdrowicz (Nathan.Nazdrowicz@delaware.gov) for more information, or visit Operation Terrapin Rescue at Port Mahon – DNREC Alpha (delaware.gov).We are proud to help support our communities. Delmarva Power is committed to powering a cleaner and brighter future for our customers and communities. To learn more about our efforts visit: https://www.delmarva.com/SafetyCommunity/Community/Pages/Environment.aspx
