Dolphin Research Center (DRC), located in Grassy Key, Florida, has reported a record number of manatee rescues by May 2025, surpassing the total for all of 2024. The organization is the only licensed manatee rescue team in the Florida Keys.
The Manatee Rescue Team works with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) and operates under the medical supervision of Dr. Scott Gearhart, DRC’s veterinarian. The team responds to calls about injured or sick manatees, transporting them to authorized rehabilitation centers until they are fit for release back into their natural habitat.
Preston Surrage, who serves on the Manatee Rescue Team and Environmental Services at DRC, said: “Every rescue matters, because every manatee matters. I’ve stood in the water with manatees barely moving, helped carry them into transport vehicles, and waited in the shallows during releases to see them swim free again. Those moments stay with you forever and remind you why we do this.”
Surrage also highlighted local involvement: “This is what makes the Keys so special. It’s a community that comes together—not just for people, but for animals too. Every act of kindness makes a real difference.”
Community members have contributed resources such as boats and kayaks and have provided support like private ramps or basic supplies while waiting with distressed animals until help arrives.
Dolphin Research Center relies on donations, memberships, and visitor engagement to fund its work as a nonprofit organization dedicated to marine mammal education and research since 1984. The center encourages those interested in supporting conservation efforts or learning more about their programs to visit www.dolphins.org.
Founded over three decades ago, DRC focuses on education, research, rescue operations—including running the region’s only licensed manatee rescue team—and rehabilitation aimed at protecting marine mammals.
For additional information or media inquiries regarding DRC’s conservation activities or how to assist their efforts directly through financial support or participation in educational initiatives, contact Allie Prokovec at media@dolphins.org.
