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 Oil
Spill Response |
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The Marine Mammal Center is a member of the Oiled
Wildlife Care Network (OWCN). Funded by the Oil Spill Prevention
and Response Act of 1990 and administered by the California
Department of Fish and Game (CDFG), this network of organizations
was established to respond to animals impacted by oil spills.
As a member of OWCN, The Center obtained funding from the CDFG
Office of Oil Spill Prevention and Response to build a special
triage area for oiled animals at our hospital in Sausalito.
Our oiled marine mammal response area includes a wooden, four-bay
garage outfitted with water and electrical outlets, specialized
washing tables, and otter recovery totes. In addition, a special
group of pens, H and I rows, run on a separate filtration system
to avoid potential contamination of the main system.
Training is provided annually to teach our volunteers how to
respond to and care for oiled animals. The CDFG Oiled Wildlife
Care Network office coordinates all training, and our veterinary
staff instruct students in marine mammal care.
In the event of an oil spill, The Center is mobilized under
the direction of the Department of Fish and Game. The garage
is converted into animal intake areas and washing stations.
Our staff and volunteers assist in animal recovery, intake,
evaluation, medical treatment, and washing. After treatment
and washing, animals are placed in H and I rows for the remainder
of their rehabilitation. |
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