May 2009: Dolphin to be released

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

A Life Restored: Cutter to Return to the Sea

Key West, FL – May 8, 2009 – The Atlantic spotted dolphin (“Cutter“) that is now in the care of the Marine Mammal Conservancy (MMC) will be transported down to Key West, FL on Saturday to prepare for his release back into the wild. After spending close to three months in rehabilitation with MMC, he is now healthy enough to be put back among his own kind. This decision was made final by a letter of concurrence from the National Marine Fisheries Service, based on a recommendation by the MMC Assessment Team as well as an independent team of experts.

Upon his arrival, Cutter will be held at the Truman Annex, next to the USS Mohawk and the Vandenberg. Members of the public are welcome to stop by, but will be asked to remain by the Information Tent that will be set up there. Media interviews are to be held from 4pm to 8pm on Saturday and can be arranged through contacting Anne Biddle at (401) 487-4642.

A release date is still yet to be determined, but will be within the week. Once released, Cutter will be tracked by Dr. Denise Herzing and a team from the Wild Dolphin Project, as well as MMC volunteers.

We would like to thank the City of Key West, the United States Coast Guard, The Florida Keys, C and T Tours, the Conch Harbor Marina and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission for their continued assistance and support.

About the Marine Mammal Conservancy
The Marine Mammal Conservancy is an Internal Revenue Service designated 501C(3) nonprofit all-volunteer organization. It is our mission at the Marine Mammal Conservancy to provide professional and effective response and care for stranded marine mammals. Through this effort, MMC adds to the overall understanding of marine mammals and our oceans on both the scientific and public fronts. Via data collection, during both necropsies and rehabilitation, and through public education, MMC helps ensure the success of an inspiring and threatened group of animals. Ever grateful to our volunteers, supporters, and the South Florida Community, they are the backbone of this organization and are what helps to keep the Marine Mammal Conservancy such a success. There is no government funding for this effort and we appreciate the support given by the public, foundations and corporations that help fund MMC to insure the health of our oceans.

Press Contact:
Anne Biddle
Anne@MarineMammalConservancy.org
(401) 487.4642