East Jefferson County Marine Mammal Stranding Network (EJCMMSN)
Goals: This volunteer network provides data to NOAA on dead, stranded or abandoned marine mammals on our shores. Volunteers also 'pup sit' seal pups while they are being weaned onshore.
How it works: Volunteers sign up to cover particular beaches. Volunteers are trained to respond and collect vital data on any marine animal reported to the stranding net hotline (360-385-5582 ext 103). If a report comes in, volunteers on a 'call list' are notified until the situation is documented and/or resolved. Sometimes volunteers 'pup sit' baby seals in order to keep curious dogs and humans at a safe distance while the mother seal hunts.
Number of PTMSC volunteers: About 20
Where to find data: This information is entered into a national database that is used to establish baseline information on marine mammal communities.
Is this project open to new volunteers? Yes, new volunteers must attend one or more half day trainings. The best time to get involved is in early spring, when trainings are typically scheduled.
Learn more about NOAA's marine mammal stranding program
See data about local marine mammal strandings
See video of baby seal pups
