2026 Turtle Summit

Turtle Rescue League's annual Turtle Summit returns for 2026! Learn from experts, build your network, and save turtles!

Join us on April 4th, 2026, at the Southbridge Community Center! Doors open at 8:30 AM, and the first presentation will begin promptly at 9:00 AM.

After the disruption caused by COVID in 2020, we had to cancel the Turtle Summit. We were thrilled to announce its return in 2024- and again in 2025 and 2026! With your valuable feedback from last year, we've curated a fresh range of exciting topics, including:

Rehabilitation at Home

Lab Diagnostics and Nomenclature

Natural History of Massachusetts’ Turtles

Additionally, we’ll be offering two hands-on courses: one on large turtle handling and the other on gross necropsy in a wet lab setting. Courses have limited capacity, so don’t wait to get your ticket add-on!

This conference is designed primarily for wildlife rehabilitators, veterinarians, conservationists, and college students, although all are welcome to attend and learn! Please note that graphic images and sensitive topics will be presented, so this event is not suitable for children. All information and techniques shared are intended for permitted/licensed individuals and are not a substitute for a mentorship program.

Beyond the presentations, you'll have plenty of time to network with fellow professionals in the field. Attendees can also purchase “Of Time and Turtles” by Sy Montgomery. Plus, we’ll have exciting raffle baskets and Turtle Rescue League T-shirts!

For lunch, we’re bringing back a food truck. Vegetarian and vegan options will be available! Reserve your tickets online now and enjoy a 25% discount. Tickets are also available at the door for $20. Looking forward to seeing you there!