MERR Institute seeks volunteers for July 15 dolphin count

The Marine Education, Research and Rehabilitation Institute Inc. is seeking volunteers for its Annual Dolphin Count from 9 to 11 a.m., Saturday, July 15. Observers will be stationed at predesignated points running from Fenwick Island to Woodland Beach.

Results from this count will help to determine population stability in Atlantic bottlenose dolphins in this region. "The dolphin count is important for multiple reasons," said MERR Executive Director Suzanne Thurman. "After collecting data locally, we compare it with past numbers and numbers of other stranding organizations in the Northeast region who monitor bottlenose dolphin to ensure stability in their population."

Volunteers will collect and analyze data on local dolphin population on coastal beaches and even a few inland locations. "Volunteers enable us to provide coverage that we normally wouldn't have the power to do," Thurman said. "They are integral in making this a success."

Thurman said on average, about 300 to 400 dolphins are counted in the two-hour period, adding that all are welcome to participate in the count.

For more information, or to volunteer for the count, contact MERR Institute at 302-228-5029 or email merrinstitute@gmail.com.

MERR is a 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to the conservation of marine mammals and sea turtles and their habitat. MERR provides response for marine animal strandings that occur throughout the state of Delaware.