Marine Animal Response Society

The Marine Animal Response Society (MARS) is a Canadian nonprofit organization based in Nova Scotia dedicated to the conservation and welfare of marine animals through response, research, and public engagement. Registered under the business number 888744463RR0001, MARS operates primarily in the Maritime Provinces, responding to incidents involving marine mammals and working to promote their protection and understanding.

History and Mission

Founded to address the need for coordinated marine animal conservation efforts in Eastern Canada, MARS has developed a robust volunteer network and response system since 1999. Its mission centers on protecting marine animals by providing timely response to stranded, injured, or dead marine mammals, conducting research on marine animal health and ecology, and engaging local communities through education and outreach initiatives.

Operations and Impact

MARS operates a dedicated hotline that receives between 400 and 600 calls annually, reporting incidents involving marine mammals throughout the Maritime region. Since its inception, the organization’s team and volunteers have responded to thousands of cases involving seals and cetaceans, including whales and dolphins. These efforts not only assist individual animals but also contribute valuable data for scientific research and conservation planning.

The society's core team of four staff members is supported by a volunteer force ranging from 60 to 100 individuals, who serve as the eyes and hands in the field, helping to monitor marine animal health and facilitate rescue operations. Volunteers receive specialized training, such as Marine Animal Medic courses, to equip them for safe and effective involvement in response activities.

Collaboration and Network

MARS is part of a larger network of marine animal conservation organizations across Canada, including peers in Quebec, Newfoundland, and British Columbia. By fostering collaboration with these groups, MARS enhances its capacity to respond to diverse marine animal incidents and share expertise across jurisdictions. The society also maintains an emergency response hotline to guide and coordinate proper interventions, aiming to improve outcomes for both animals and people reporting incidents.

Education and Outreach

Beyond direct response, MARS emphasizes public education and engagement to raise awareness about the challenges facing marine mammals and the importance of marine conservation. It offers learning opportunities and volunteer programs designed to involve Canadians in marine animal welfare efforts. These initiatives seek to empower communities to act responsibly when encountering marine wildlife and support ongoing conservation work.

Legal and Charitable Status

The Marine Animal Response Society is recognized as a registered charity by the Canada Revenue Agency, complying with all regulatory requirements to operate as a nonprofit entity. This designation enables MARS to fundraise and receive donations to support its programs and ensure the sustainability of its conservation efforts.

MARS continues to play a critical role in responding to marine animal emergencies and fostering stewardship of marine ecosystems in the Canadian Maritimes through a combination of direct action, research, and community involvement.