Institute for Marine Mammal Studies inform local law enforcement about stranding season

The Institute for Marine Mammal Studies or IMMS is the only permitted organization in Mississippi that responds to strandings and has rehabilitation facilities for marine mammals and sea turtles. During stranding season, law enforcement plays a crucial role in communication when sea life comes ashore. Today IMMS is informing local law enforcement on how they can continue to assist effectively. 

These animals are federally protected, through the Marine Mammal Protection Act, and it is illegal to harm or kill them. IMMS has a 24-hour hotline for reporting stranded or injured marine mammals and sea turtles at 1-888-SOS-DOLPHIN.