January 2004: P.A.D.I. recognizes Marine Mammal Support Diver Association

S.S.I First to Recognize New Professional Association,

“Marine Mammal Support Diver”

KEY LARGO, FL January 12, 2004 – The Marine Mammal Conservancy (MMC), an all-volunteer dolphin and whale rescue organization in Key Largo has been recognized by S.S.I (Scuba Schools International) with a new specialty course to assist the MMC rescue team in a marine mammal stranding.  This is the first recognized dive specialty certification in the world for Marine Mammal Rescue.

The course begins with a classroom session followed by in water training to practice the techniques learned. The following day consists of two boat dives and further training to complete the course. To obtain this specialty please contact Quiescence Diving Services 305-451-2440. A snorkel specialty is also available. We would like to congratulate Victoria Kattel on being the first to become certified as a Marine Mammal Support Diver.

The Marine Mammal Conservancy is a nonprofit, all-volunteer organization serving marine mammals since 1995.  MMC relies 100% on monetary donations, corporate sponsorships and grants for all of their efforts.  MMC operates in Key Largo, Florida as the first line of response for the rescue and rehabilitation of wild marine mammals in the Keys and South Florida Area.