The Marine Education, Research & Rehabilitation Institute (MERR) director, Suzanne Thurman, recently discussed a fin whale that was found beached at Delaware Seashore State Park on May 5, 2024. Thurman shared insights on the situation and the efforts being made to help the stranded whale.
Delaware, known as the First State, has been ranked as the 21st best state in the nation by U.S. News & World Report. The rankings are based on various metrics across different categories such as fiscal stability, education, healthcare, and natural environment. Delaware excelled in fiscal stability, ranking fourth in the nation, and also scored well in healthcare and business environment.
However, the state faced challenges in the natural environment category, where it ranked 43rd in the nation. Delaware has high levels of industrial toxins compared to the national average, but has below-average rates of drinking water violations. The state also struggled in areas such as employment and Pre-K to 12 education.
Despite its rankings, Delaware continues to strive for improvement in various aspects of its state. For more information and updates on Delaware’s rankings and initiatives, follow Hannah Edelman on Twitter at @h_edelman or send story tips to hedelman@delawareonline.com.