Safety & Environmental Resources

Whether you're a Beach Guardian, volunteer, or member of the public, these resources can help you protect yourself, wildlife, and our local environment.

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Wildlife Reporting & Rescue

Marine Mammal Rescue & Strandings

• Marine Mammal Center 
• 415-289-7325
• www.marinemammalcenter.org 

Native Animal Rescue:

• (831) 462-0726
• https://www.nativeanimalrescue.org 

Stranded Shark Hotline

• For dead or stranded sharks in Santa Cruz County
• 831-454-6567 (Leave a detailed message with location and shark condition)

California Department of Fish & Wildlife

• For injured wildlife, habitat damage, or poaching
• 831-649-2870
• https://wildlife.ca.gov

SPCA for Monterey County – Wildlife Rescue

• 831-264-5427
• https://www.spcamc.org/programs-resources/wildlife-rescue-rehabilitation/emergency-wildlife-contacts.html

Local Experts & Contacts

• Sean R. van Sommeran – Shark Researcher & Environmental Educator
• sean@pelagic.org
• www.pelagic.org
• 831-600-5103

Beach Conditions & Hazards

City of Santa Cruz Beach and Ocean Safety

• https://www.cityofsantacruz.com  → Parks & Rec → Beaches

Pollution & Environmental Concerns

Santa Cruz County Environmental Health Services

• 831-454-2022
• https://scceh.com

Report Pollution, Illegal Dumping, or Issues

• https://cconnect.santacruzcounty.us/Home/ReportNewIssue

California State Parks – Santa Cruz District

• 831-335-6392

Emergency – Lifeguard / Fire / Rescue

• Phone: 911