Many of us are concerned about the potential impact of the Deep Horizon oil spill on our coast and local wildlife and want to know how we can help. Below you will find some important information and links to help you safely and effectively take part in the rescue and cleanup efforts.
First and foremost, DO NOT attempt to assist oil-soaked birds and wildlife yourself. Hands-on work to save birds and other wildlife is a complex and potentially dangerous process, and it is important that only trained volunteers participate on the front lines. Untrained volunteers can pose a risk not only to themselves, but to the animals they are trying to save.
If you want to volunteer to help wildlife affected by the oil spill,
you can sign up for the Florida Audubon Volunteer Registry
or call the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service toll-free number for volunteers at (866)-448-5816
If you find a bird, turtle or mammal affected by the spill, contact the Oiled Wildlife Hotline: (866) 557-1401.
To report oiled shoreline, please call (866) 448-5816.
Click here for a list of additional contact information.
Florida's statewide response is being coordinated by the Department of Environmental Protection and can be tracked at http://www.dep.state.fl.us/deepwaterhorizon
The Unified Command has created a website with information on the overall response at http://www.deepwaterhorizonresponse.com
There is also a Facebook group called "Help Prepare for Florida Oil Spill in Panhandle" with some local information and contacts.