Who We Are

Channel Islands Marine & Wildlife Institute (CIMWI) is an organization made up of dedicated individuals that share the same mission. Our goal is to make a difference through marine mammal rescue, rehabilitation, research and education to promote ocean and human health.

CIMWI’s Board of Directors is made up of professionals that are committed to building a first-class marine mammal institute. Most of the team has a great deal of marine mammal experience (over 165 years cumulatively). These leaders paired with the volunteers that are responsible for the day-to-day operations and strategic execution creates a winning combination. CIMWI Volunteers provide the time, energy and dedication that enable CIMWI to make a difference.

Who We Are

Board of Directors:

Sam Dover, D.V.M. – President

Executive Director and Chief Veterinarian

Ruth Dover – Chief Financial Officer

Director of Business Operations

Nick Schneider, Esq. – Secretary

Seed Mackall, LLP – Partner and Attorney

Jim Antrim – Director

SeaWorld San Diego – Vice President, Zoological Operations (retired)

Fred Benko – Director

Condor Express – Owner and Captain

Rick Linnehan, D.V.M. – Director

NASA – Astronaut and Veterinarian

Jim McBain, D.V.M. – Director

SeaWorld Busch Gardens – Vice President, Corporate Veterinary Services (retired)

Volunteers:

Channel Islands Marine & Wildlife Institute (CIMWI) is an all volunteer organization. There are no paid employees. CIMWI’s volunteer base includes people in both Ventura County and Santa Barbara County.

CIMWI volunteers are responsible for managing the hotline, coordinating responses, making assessments, collecting data on dead stranded animals, performing rescues and transporting animals, as well as caring for and providing medical attention to the animals in rehabilitation and managing releases. Most of CIMWI’s volunteers perform multiple roles in the organization. Aside from working directly with stranded marine mammals, they also assist with education, fundraising, grant writing, website development and maintenance, public relations, groundskeeping, facility maintenance, construction and administration.

If you are interested in volunteering with CIMWI, click here (.doc) or click here (.pdf) to complete CIMWI’s volunteer application. Please email your completed application to info@CIMWI.org or fax it to (805) 963-9684.

CIMWI Partners:

CIMWI is a member of the Marine Mammal Health and Stranding Response Network under the direction of NOAA’s National Marine Fisheries Service. CIMWI is also a member of the Oiled Wildlife Care Network.

CIMWI is committed to cooperating and collaborating with other agencies, organizations, universities and researchers that share our commitment to promote ocean and human health. CIMWI is currently working in cooperation with the following organizations: