Dolphin Research Center (DRC), based in Grassy Key, Florida, has reported a significant increase in manatee rescues during 2025. By May of this year, the center’s Manatee Rescue Team had already responded to more incidents than it did throughout all of 2024. DRC is the only licensed manatee rescue team operating in the Florida Keys.
The team works with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) and relies on medical guidance from its in-house veterinarian, Dr. Scott Gearhart. When manatees are found injured or sick, they are transported to licensed rehabilitation facilities until they recover and can be released back into their natural habitat.
“Every rescue matters, because every manatee matters,” said Preston Surrage, who serves on the Manatee Rescue Team and Environmental Services at DRC. “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.”
Local residents have played a role by providing resources such as boats, kayaks, private ramps, and supplies like sunscreen and water. Community members also help monitor distressed animals until professional rescuers arrive.
“This is what makes the Keys so special,” Surrage added. “It’s a community that comes together—not just for people, but for animals too. Every act of kindness makes a real difference.”
DRC operates as a nonprofit organization supported by donations, memberships, and visitors. The center encourages public involvement to continue its conservation efforts for marine mammals.
More information about supporting DRC’s Manatee Rescue Team can be found at www.dolphins.org.
Founded in 1984, Dolphin Research Center focuses on education, research, rescue, and rehabilitation of marine mammals including dolphins and sea lions.
