Clearwater Marine Aquarium (CMA) has opened its new Manatee Rehabilitation Center, marking a significant milestone in the institution’s ongoing efforts to protect and care for manatees.
This advanced facility will address the growing number of manatees requiring rehabilitation, offering state-of-the-art care for those affected by habitat loss, injuries from boat strikes, ingestion of foreign objects, entanglements, and cold stress syndrome. Equipped with cutting-edge technology, including ozone treatment systems and specially designed medical habitats, the center is focused on ensuring the well-being of these vulnerable marine mammals.
“Clearwater Marine Aquarium has been committed to manatee conservation for over two decades. Thanks to our supporters, this vision is now a reality,” said Joe Handy, CEO of Clearwater Marine Aquarium. “We are the first responders of the ocean, engaged in research, monitoring, and now rehabilitation. From international waters to our local Florida environment, we are ready to protect this keystone species.”
READ MORE: Colombia Emerges as Top Destination for U.S. Travelers, Highlighting Afro-Colombian Culture in Cali
The center’s first residents, Yeti and Zamboni, were transferred from ZooTampa at Lowry Park, a partner in the Manatee Rescue & Rehabilitation Partnership (MRP). These manatees were rescued due to cold stress and have been receiving critical care, now continuing their rehabilitation at CMA. With several facilities at capacity, the transfer to CMA helps alleviate the pressure on other critical care centers, and CMA plans to accept more critical cases once its surgical suite is fully equipped.
Manatees are a flagship species, serving as indicators of the health of their aquatic habitats. CMA’s new center not only enhances its ability to care for these animals but also aims to educate the public on manatee conservation. Visitors will have the opportunity to learn about the threats facing manatees and observe the rehabilitation process firsthand.
CMA has a long history of involvement in manatee rescue, release, and tracking. In 2019, the aquarium expanded its conservation efforts by launching the Clearwater Marine Aquarium Research Institute (CMARI). This division, led by Dr. James “Buddy” Powell, a veteran in manatee conservation, aims to advance global research and protection efforts for manatees and other endangered species.
“The opening of this manatee care center represents the culmination of years of dedication,” said Dr. Powell. “By integrating global research with hands-on care, we gain critical insights into manatee behavior and needs, which in turn informs more effective conservation strategies.”
The center’s expert team includes Dr. Shelly Marquardt, a seasoned veterinarian with extensive experience in manatee care, Tanya Ward, the manatee care manager with a strong background in wildlife rehabilitation, and Monica Ross, Director of Manatee Research and Conservation, who brings over 30 years of experience in manatee research.
Funding for the Manatee Rehabilitation Center was provided by the State of Florida, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, the Duke Energy Foundation, the John H. Prescott Marine Mammal Rescue Assistance Grant Program, and numerous private donors.
About Clearwater Marine Aquarium: Clearwater Marine Aquarium is a nonprofit marine rescue center dedicated to education, research, rescue, rehabilitation, and the release of marine animals. Known for its work with rescued dolphins, sea turtles, and other marine life, CMA is also home to the Clearwater Marine Aquarium Research Institute, which focuses on protecting manatees, North Atlantic right whales, and sea turtles. CMA’s mission is to preserve the environment and inspire the human spirit through its work. The aquarium gained worldwide recognition through the “Dolphin Tale” films, which highlighted the true stories of rescued dolphins Winter and Hope.
Source: Clearwater Marine Aquarium Opens New Manatee Rehabilitation Center
