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The mission of the Emerald Coast Wildlife Refuge (ECWR) is education, conservation and rehabilitation for the welfare of Florida’s natural fauna.
The ECWR is a not-for-profit organization made up of a caring staff and dedicated volunteers. Its headquarters and refuge are currently located in the heart of Destin, Florida. Over the past 13 years, the ECWR has cared for thousands of animals in need of help – from stranded dolphins to injured eagles to orphaned foxes. The ECWR is mainly supported through the generous donations of local residents and businesses.
To make a donation in support of the Emerald Coast Wildlife Refuge's ongoing programs,
| Oil Spill in the Gulf of Mexico 2010 |
The Emerald Coast Wildlife Refuge continues to monitor the oil spill, and expect at minimum to be involved in the rescue of many sea turtles and marine mammals. The impact on birds in our area is as yet unclear, but we are prepared to respond to oiled bird calls as well. We are working closely with NOAA, USFWS, FFWCC, BP, Okaloosa EOC, and many other agencies and groups to plan our response in order to provide the best care possible to wildlife impacted by the spill. We want to emphasize that when and if oil reaches our beaches, only those with specific hazmat training will be allowed on the beach. If you would like to receive that training there are several agencies working to provide it. For the most current information on hazmat training contact the BP Community & Volunteer Hotline: 1-866-448-5816. We have been overwhelmed by the outpouring of support and concern during this tragic event. Our biggest need at this time is for people who are willing to answer the phone at the refuge. You will respond to callers' frequently asked questions and refer them to the various agencies in charge of the effort.. Remember, every effort is important and valuable. Please email Susan at slevielle@ecwildliferefuge.com, with the words "Phone Duty" in you subject line if you are able to come in to answer the phone. Please include your availability. While We are not currently seeking volunteers specific to the oil spill we are always looking for volunteers. Our next volunteer orientation is scheduled for 5 June, and you can email Susan with the words "Volunteer Orientation Sign up" in the subject header for deatils. Now more than ever, the ECWR also needs the assistance of our trained volunteersin day-to-day operations. If you are already an active volunteer, please check your calendars and give Susan a call if you have some extra time to lend a hand. Thank you all for your patience and support, I have been in personal contact with a friend that has worked spills all over the world, and she thinks this may be the one of the worstever...so we will need you. I want to re-emphasize that we are ready and able to respond to oiled wildlife, and are on call 24/7. Oiled wildlife will be suffering from shock, hypo or hyperthermia, and stress and is typically stabilized for 24 - 48 hours before washing begins. If you find a suspected oiled animal please call the BP Oiled Wildlife Hotline: 1-866-557-1401, immediately. You can also call us directly at 850-650-1880. Please remember that once the oil is on the beach only individuals with specific training will be allowed onto the beach to conduct rescues, and under no circumstances should you handle a suspected oiled animal. In support of our holding and stabilization areas we are asking for donations of the following items: Baby blankets Towels Heating pads (w/o auto shut off if possible) Large Rubbermaid containers with lids Heating lamps Rubbermaid troughs (can be purchased at Tractor Supply in Crestview or on-line) Large backyard portable pools like found at Wal-Mart I realize that the information about volunteering has been confused and at time inaccurate, for our part we are logging everyone who calls and will forward any solid informationas we get it. As our response duties and needs become clearer, we will of course contact you with those needs. P_ Patrick Gault Assistant Director/Biologist ECWR |
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