Grassy Key, FL… Earth Day is fast approaching and the public can help the ongoing mission to help the Florida Keys local environment. Join Dolphin Research Center (DRC) in a volunteer effort to collect discarded trash, monofilament fishing line and other debris at DRC’s “adopted” Tom’s Harbor Bridge, mile marker 62, on Thursday, April 19th from 4:30 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. All participants should wear clothes, hats and closed-toe shoes that can get wet or dirty, and bring a reusable water bottle, sunscreen and a cutting tool. Dolphin Research Center will supply water, trash bags, gloves and bug repellent. The clean-up will begin on the west side of the bridge. For more information call Amy Bayer at 305-289-1121, ext. 241.
Discarded monofilament line, improperly disposed trash and all kinds of marine debris pose a huge threat to marine life. Over the years, Dolphin Research Center has rescued and treated manatees numerous times for monofilament entanglement injuries. Florida manatees, dolphins, turtles, birds and other animals frequently become entangled in or ingest marine debris and can suffer life-threatening injuries. In an effort to keep more trash from entering the water, and to raise public awareness of the problem, Dolphin Research Center coordinates a variety of clean-ups throughout the year.
Founded in 1984, Dolphin Research Center is a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting peaceful coexistence, cooperation and communication between marine mammals and humans and the environment through research and education. Located on the Overseas Highway at mile marker 59, Grassy Key, the center is home to a family of dolphins and California sea lions and is open daily to the public from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. for narrated behavior sessions, educational programs and a variety of interactive programs. DRC offers programs for military personnel and veterans as well as assistance and programs for people with special needs. DRC is an accredited member of the Alliance of Marine Mammal Parks and Aquariums. For more information, visit www.dolphins.org.
