The primary goal of this project in FY2025 - 2026 is to continue building whale and dolphin conservation, wdcs capacity to support all rapid responses and investigations, specifically large whale…

Whale and Dolphin Conservation, Inc. received a $104,800 Project Grant from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) under the Marine Mammal Data Program (CFDA 11.439) for the period October 1, 2025 through September 30, 2026. The award supports expanded marine mammal stranding response capacity along the Massachusetts coast, with primary emphasis on building organizational capability to conduct rapid response investigations and large whale necropsies. The organization will extend coverage territory to include over 55 additional miles of Norfolk County coastline and the Boston Harbor Islands, thereby strengthening regional response infrastructure for marine mammal emergencies.

Secondary project objectives include enhanced public education on marine mammal conservation, safe viewing practices, human interaction guidelines, and appropriate expectations for stranding response operations. Additionally, the grant funds paid internship, externship, and apprenticeship positions to develop workforce capacity in marine science and conservation disciplines. These activities align with the Marine Mammal Data Program's discretionary funding priorities for stranding network operations and capacity building to support research, data collection, and marine mammal health and conservation initiatives.

The primary goal of this project in FY2025 - 2026 is to continue building whale and dolphin conservation, wdcs capacity to support all rapid responses and investigations, specifically large whale response and necropsies. Our secondary goal is to expand our coverage territory to include over 55 additional miles of norfolk county coastline including the boston harbor islands. We will also continue to prioritize educating the public about marine mammals, safe viewing, human interaction, and managing public expectations for stranding response, and provide paid internships/externships/apprentices.