by Caroline Guzman

---

For many people, one of the perks of living in Washington state is the chance to see charismatic marine wildlife like orcas, sea lions, otters, seals, and many others. But an average of 578 marine animals end up on shore dead or in need of care on Washington coastlines every year, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).

Now, about 100 of these at-risk animals can be treated per year inside Washington state’s first marine wildlife hospital. In honor of Earth Day, the people behind SeaLife Response, Rehabilitation, and Research (SR3) joined Des Moines Mayor Matt Pina to cut the ribbon on this new facility.

“The accomplishments of locating SR3 in Des Moines Marina is a statement of our city’s commitment, respect, and our role to assist in the healthy stewardship of Puget Sound,” said Pina during the ceremony. “And our city understands the valuable interface between them. SR3, in addressing the health of marine animals, furthers our goal to see that this Puget Sound remains as healthy as possible.”

Continue reading Des Moines Marine Mammal Hospital Is Pacific Northwest’s First →