PRESS RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Media Contact: Robert Aston
Email: robert@mantas.org Phone: 831-566-3832
The Manta Network Receives Disney Wildlife Conservation Fund Award
Santa Cruz, California, October 2007 – The Manta Network (TMN) has been selected by the Disney Wildlife Conservation Fund (DWCF) for an award to support our work with manta rays. Specifically, the DWCF funds will go toward the Indonesia Manta Migration Study to determine the migration behavior in an area where mantas are highly threatened. Funds will be used to purchase satellite tags. “We are honored to become part of a prestigious group of organizations whose important work is funded in part by the Disney Wildlife Conservation Fund,” says Robert Aston, Executive Director of The Manta Network. “Manta rays are endangered in many parts of the globe and this grant will aid in needed research leading to their protection in one of the worst affected areas,” added Aston. TMN was selected from more than 260 applications reviewed by scientists, veterinarians and other animal experts. The organizations range from large national groups to small community efforts from Africa to Florida. In 2007, they received more than $1.5 million in awards. This brings the total up to more than $11 million in conservation projects supported by the DWCF. “Our company has a commitment to the environment that dates back to Walt Disney himself,” said Jerry Montgomery, senior vice president of Conservation & Environmental Sustainability for Walt Disney Parks & Resorts. “Protecting wildlife and wild places through the Disney Wildlife Conservation Fund is a key component of our mission. The Manta Network is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to research, conservation, and protection of manta and mobula rays worldwide. It is composed of researchers with experience in tracking of both manta rays and many other marine species. The Disney Wildlife Conservation Fund receives a significant annual donation from The Walt Disney Company. Walt Disney World Resort covers the fund’s administrative costs. “In addition to our company’s contributions, many guests who visit Walt Disney World Resort and Disney Cruise Line share their personal commitment to conservation by making a donation to the Disney Wildlife Conservation Fund,” added Montgomery. “Disney guests who are inspired by the fund are able to participate knowing that 100 percent of their donation goes toward conservation.”
For a complete list of Disney Wildlife Conservation projects visit www.disneywildlifefund.com . www.save-the-mantas.org • 326 pacheco ave., santa cruz, ca 95062 • 831-426-4400 • help@save-the-mantas.org