Delaware State officials are renewing a contract with the Marine Education Research and Rehabilitation Institute to deal with large ocean-going animals who beach themselves on the state’s shores.
The state Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control withheld new funding for eight months because it was concerned that the non-profit had violated the terms of its federal grant.
The Wilmington News Journal reports that this led to the organization’s executive director to work without pay since March.
Last year when the group quickly rescued sea turtle eggs near Lewes DNREC officials were surprised.
In renewing the contract DNREC emphasized reporting activities by the Institute.
The agreement runs through October of next year and provides the organization with $50-thousand a year.