Celebrating 25 years of marine mammal rescue

The unique and diverse shoreline of Cape Cod is also, tragically, the place that sees the most mass strandings of dolphins in the world. And it’s not only dolphins that end up in life-threatening distress here but also other marine mammals, such as porpoises, seals, and whales. 

Sometimes dolphins are beached on the shore with no way to get back into the water on their own. Or they may be tangled in fishing gear, which slows them down and stops them from migrating, eating, and reproducing. In fact, in a typical year, 260 marine mammals need to be rescued on Cape Cod.  

That’s why, 25 years ago this month, I became one of the founding members of the Cape Cod Stranding Network, which later became IFAW’s Marine Mammal Rescue and Research team. 

We began as a small group of passionate individuals driven by the desire to make a difference. Little did we know that 25 years later we would develop into a team of 150 trained volunteers, respond to 7,000 stranded marine mammals, and change the future of rescue and release around the world. 

Rescue, research, and innovation 

What started as a local endeavor grew into a global force for marine mammal rescue and conservation—with IFAW’s support from its inception. Our evolution into the Marine Mammal Rescue and Research team under IFAW’s guidance allowed us to expand our reach, both geographically and in terms of impact. 

It’s difficult to put into words how meaningful this journey has been for all of us. As Deputy Vice President of Rescue at IFAW, this anniversary is more than a mere number to me. It’s a testament to years of dedication, innovative scientific research, fresh thinking, and bold action. 

Our team's journey, though marked by challenges, has had numerous moments of triumph. In the early days of marine mammal rescue, for example, most organizations believed that releasing a single animal from a social species would result in its certain death. Instead, individuals were humanely euthanized in the interest of animal welfare.  

However, our team used years of data from our satellite tracking technology to prove that healthy, individually stranded dolphins can reintegrate back into a pod and survive.  

Over the years, our team has developed response techniques that significantly increase stranded animals’ chances of survival. In the late 1990s, we could release only 1 in 10 rescued dolphins. Today, we release 7 in 10. 

And we still strive to improve this number. This August, we opened a first-of-its-kind short-term rehabilitation facility on Cape Cod. Our Dolphin Rescue Center enables us to provide extra support to a stranded dolphin or porpoise, including diagnostics, treatment, and nutrition, that can give the animal a better chance of survival in the wild.  

Action for the future 

Every animal we’ve rescued—every life we’ve saved—has only reinforced our commitment to this cause. 

Over 150 trained volunteers, some of whom have more than 20 years’ experience with the team, are the backbone of our work. They have selflessly dedicated their time, skills, and hearts to safeguarding vulnerable marine life. Their willingness to brave the elements, their expertise, and their boundless compassion have been instrumental in our success. 

More than anything, their passion is a testament to the power of collective action. 

As we look back on 25 years of relentless effort, we also look forward with a sense of purpose. The challenges posed by climate change, pollution, and human activities necessitate a steadfast commitment to conservation. For our whole team, this anniversary is not just a celebration of the past—it’s a call to action for the future. 

The world is changing, and so must we. Our history is a source of inspiration, but it’s also a reminder of the work that lies ahead. We must continue to educate, advocate, and innovate. We must collaborate with communities, partners, governments, and organizations globally. The 7,000 animals we’ve rescued are not just numbers—they are ambassadors for a cause that transcends borders and connects us all. 

Every successful rescue—every animal released back into its natural habitat—is a victory not just for the team but for the entire community that stands behind them and a testament to our years of dedication.