3 opportunities to protect + learn about Alabama Gulf Coast sea life

Want to help Alabama’s shores stay healthy?

Along the Gulf Coast, there are three upcoming opportunities — both events and chances to volunteer — for folks to learn about how to protect local marine life and learn more to better appreciate our environment.

Discovery Day

Each year, Dauphin Island Sea Lab (DISL) hosts an open house event called “Discovery Day,” giving visitors a chance to learn about our coastal ecosystem and current research.

The day includes:

• The chance to explore real scientific labs
• Hands-on science lessons
• Free children’s admission to the Alabama Aquarium

Sound fun? Make sure to put this annual celebration on your calendar, and plan to bring the whole family.

When: Saturday, April 11 from 10AM to 2PM
Where: Dauphin Island Sea Lab — 101 Bienville Blvd, Dauphin Island, AL 36528
Learn more: Website | 251-861-2141

Sea Turtle Stranding + Salvage Network training workshops

Due to developments along the Alabama coastline, sea turtles can use all the help we can give, especially during their summer nesting season.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) runs a cooperative effort of federal, state and some private partners called the Sea Turtle Stranding & Salvage Network (STSSN), and there are two upcoming in-person training opportunities. Anyone interested can also sign up for a virtual training, which will be sent out after the last in-person training.

Dauphin Island training

When: Thursday, March 19 from 1 to 3:15PM
Where: Shelby Auditorium at the Dauphin Island Sea Lab — 101 Bienville Blvd, Dauphin Island, AL 36528
Register

Orange Beach training

When: Thursday, March 26 from 1 to 3:15PM
Where: Education Center at Gulf State Park — Campground Road, Orange Beach, AL 36561
Register

Manatee Sighting Network

There are also opportunities to help the Gulf’s manatees as well.

Dauphin Island Sea Lab facilitates a Manatee Sighting Network, which helps researchers find, study and protect them.

If you spot a manatee, complete DISL’s manatee sighting form. You can also learn more about the project and buy manatee merch on DISL’s project website.

All reports to DISL’s Manatee Sighting Network will automatically be reported to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) in Daphne to help inform manatee conservation and management efforts.

To report emergencies, such as an animal in distress or a carcass, call 1-866-493-5803. Sightings can also be reported at this number.

As you search for manatees, keep a few things in mind, according to DISL:

• Manatees need plenty of space. Please do not do anything to alter their natural behavior, entice, scare or harass them.
• The best rule of thumb is to stay at least 100 feet from manatees.
• If you spot one, don’t chase them, feed them or touch them.

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