| Key Activities | 🛟 Rescue • 📚 Public Education • 🧪 Research |
|---|---|
| Location | 801 Pilottown Road, Lewes, DE 19958, USA |
| Seal Hotline | +1 302-228-5029 |
| Website | https://www.merrinstitute.org/ |
| Founded | 2000 |
| Species | harbor seal • grey seal • harp seal • hooded seal |
| Rehab & Release | âś– |
| Sanctuary | âś– |
| Open to Public | âś– |
| How to Help | Donate • Volunteer |
| Social Media |
|
MERR Institute (Marine Education, Research & Rehabilitation Institute) is a 24/7 marine mammal and sea turtle rescue organization based in Lewes, Delaware, founded in 2000 by environmental educator Suzanne Thurman. As the official stranding response agency for the state of Delaware, MERR handles nearly 300 rescue cases annually, ranging from beached whales to entangled sea turtles.
MERR responds to live and deceased strandings, providing veterinary care, pain management, and nourishment to injured animals. They’ve even rescued seals from unexpected places, like a spillway in the woods during a snowstorm. If seals are in need of rescue, they get first treatments at MERR Institute, and, once stabilized, go to partners like the National Aquarium for the full rehab process. Through necropsies and data collection, MERR contributes to studies on marine species and ocean health, helping shape conservation policy.
MERR offers programs for schools, interns, and the public to foster stewardship and awareness and reaches thousands of people each year. The organization is known for its compassionate care, scientific rigor, and creative fundraising like sunset dolphin tours and “adopt-a-dolphin” programs.