Friday, December 11, 2004 - Now in two pieces, the Malaysian freighter Selendang Ayu is threatening massive environmental damage on the north shore of Unalaska Island. Marine mammals, waterfowl and salmon hatcheries around Skan Bay are at risk from the oil. It could be the largest ecological disaster since the 1989 Exxon Valdez spill.
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This disaster could test out Bird TLC's evacuation plan. Bird TLC is a tenant of the International Bird Rescue and Research Center. Our agreement with them is that if there is ever an emergency requiring bird rescue from oil spills in Alaska, we would be required to evacuate the premises within 24 hours. Our volunteers would also assist them in whatever way possible. Right now we don't know the extent of the damage caused by the Selendang Ayu disaster. We also haven't been requested by IBRRC to evacuate. Here's hoping that the test is not required and if it is, it won't be for long.
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Fortunately rehab business at Bird TLC has been slow. There are only a small amount of injured birds at the center plus the few resident birds. Temporary placement at volunteers homes and our flight center is presently being discussed. We'll keep you updated as things occur.
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