Supporting the Marine Mammal Commission
For over 40 years, the Marine Mammal Commission has been working to protect aquatic species—but the existence of this agency, and the critically important work it does, is at risk.
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- Conservation
Although the annual operating budget for the Marine Mammal Commission (MMC) amounts to just over one penny per American per year, the current administration's proposed 2019 federal budget includes its elimination.
Since its establishment under the Marine Mammal Protection Act of 1972, the MMC has been using science-based oversight to develop policies that balance the demands of human activities, such as fishing and offshore drilling, with the protection of marine animals and their environments.
Marine mammals, such as whales, dolphins, seals, sea lions, walruses and manatees, play a critical role in maintaining productive marine ecosystems that are not only essential for human health, but also key to a vibrant economy. Without the MMC to provide oversight to federal policies and programs, these animals could become vulnerable to human activities that can negatively impact their populations, and ultimately, the health of the ocean that we all depend on.
At the National Aquarium, we're committed to advocating for the protection of marine mammal species, as well as informing and educating our guests, members and local community about the importance of funding and research that supports our Earth's critical resources.
Join us in showing your support for the Marine Mammal Commission and the continued protection of marine mammals!