Get Involved

To promote the conservation of our oceans' wildlife, LMMSTRP uses aerial surveys of waterways, lakes, and the coast, beach walks, necropsies, data collection, response to live strandings and rehabilitation of live animals. The goal is to locate and treat the animals, and prepare them for a successful release back into their natural environment.

If You Encounter A Live Beached Marine Mammal or Sea Turtle

  • IMMEDIATELY call (504) 235-3005 and tell stranding personnel about a live animal stranding and give a precise location.
  • DO NOT RETURN THE ANIMAL TO THE BODY OF WATER.
  • Keep people and pets away from it until professional help arrives.
  • Keep the animal cool and wet during hot months by splashing water onto the skin, but AVOID getting water in the blowhole. In the cold winter months shield the animal from the wind.
  • If it is a dolphin apply a wet cloth to the animal, taking care not to cover the blowhole, dorsal fin, flippers or tail.
  • If it is a sea turtle apply a wet cloth over the shell but do not cover the animal’s head.
  • Keep your hands away from its mouth, and keep your body away from its tail section.

 

If You Encounter A Dead Marine Mammal or Sea Turtle

  • Call (504) 235-3005 to report the deceased animal and give the general location.
  • Leave the carcass just as you found it—do not touch it or remove any parts of the animal.
  • If the animal has been spray painted with bright orange X, the animal has already been reported to authorities and samples have been taken. You do NOT need to call to report it.

 

What Can You Do To Help With Conservation?

  • Participate in beach, stream and roadside cleanups.
  • Be responsible with your litter.  Recycle and dispose of trash properly, including fishing line and six-pack rings.
  • Donate to LMMSTRP to help with the high cost of running the program. 
  • Keep your distance when you come in contact with a wild marine mammal. They are protected, and feeding or swimming with them is against the law.
  • Please only take photos of the animals and leave only your footprints behind.