The Marine Mammal Protection Act mandated a national marine mammal stranding network to respond to stranded animals.

The goals of the marine mammal stranding network are:

• To provide for the welfare of live animals;
• To minimize risk to public health and safety;
• To support scientific investigation; and
• To advance public education.

Institutions within the network are voluntary and are authorized to conduct activities through permits and a letter of authorizations. Members include non-profit organizations, scientific institutions, schools and universities, aquariums, zoos, and government agencies. The National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) administers the marine mammal and sea turtle stranding network. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) administers the sea otter stranding network. Participating organizations submit regular reports to the NMFS and FWS so that data can be analyzed across large coastal areas.