About us

THE DOLPHIN PROJECT THE DOLPHIN PROJECT was organized in 1989 after a mass die-off of dolphins on the Eastern seaboard of the United States. THE DOLPHIN PROJECT is a 501(c)3 non-profit, all volunteer organization. To learn more details of our history, please go to our HISTORY page.

Scientists and volunteers came together to count the dolphins and photograph their dorsal fins (which is unique and comparable to a human fingerprint for identification). By doing this, we help monitor the health of the dolphins which are the sentinel species of their estuarine environment. Since we share this environment, the well-being of these dolphins impacts our well-being. The page on MARINE SCIENCE has information about our partnerships in the marine science community.

For over 30 years, the work of THE DOLPHIN PROJECT ('TDP') has increased what we know about Bottlenose dolphins. The information that we collect when we go out on boats for our surveys, helps us to learn more about how the dolphins interact with their environment, and how changes in their environment affect them. We share the data that we collect with many research scientists, universities, other interested organizations and government agencies. 

TDP members contribute to understanding of marine mammals by expanding the public's knowledge and concern for our marine environment. Our Education Outreach Program brings interesting and fun facts about dolphins into classrooms and to various organizations.  Our volunteers are eager to teach all ages about these amazing dolphins and the environment we share with them. See our EDUCATION page for more information.

TDP members can participate in research and education projects. It's all fascinating and fun and a great way to learn about the dolphins and help them, as well as a way to make new friends who are also interested in the dolphins and their environment. Explore our website to learn more about us.