Training and Outreach
In alignment with its mission, the Oiled Wildlife Care Network provides training workshops and outreach seminars for members of its participating organizations on the care of oil-affected wildlife.
Although participation in the OWCN training and outreach program is limited to volunteers and staff from our affiliated organizations, you can become involved by becoming a member of any one of these groups. To find one near you, click on the “Participant Organizations” tab at the top of this page.
Online Training Series (OTS)
The OTS has taken the place of our Basic Supervisor Training class. It is open to all volunteers and staff of our participating organizations. The OTS addresses topics ranging from the history of the Network to basic seabird and marine mammal rehabilitation techniques. Click here to learn more.
OWCN Annual Rehabilitation Conference
The OWCN Annual Rehabilitation Conference is a two-day event that provides both oral and hands-on instruction in oiled wildlife response. Recent research findings, protocol updates, animal care, and hands-on wet labs are just some of the topics available to attendees. The program is offered once a year (typically in October), and alternates between a site in Northern and Southern California. Click here to learn more.
Care Response Team Training
This two-day training will be for supervisory oiled wildlife rehabilitation staff. Attendees will be selected based on oil spill response experience and previously demonstrated competence in oiled wildlife care. This training will focus on managing animal care, personnel, and paperwork in each area of the oiled wildlife rehabilitation facility. Annual attendance is mandatory for all rehabilitation personnel who will fill staff roles during a declared oiled wildlife response.
Recovery and Transportation Training
Recent California legislation, AB 2911 (2008) has given the OWCN responsibility for recovering and transporting oiled wildlife to the Network’s rehabilitation facilities. To prepare for this, the OWCN will be conducting classes designed to train individuals in the proper capture and handling of oil-affected wildlife. The first of these classes will begin early in 2009. More details will be posted here as they become available.
Participant Outreach Seminars
Participant organizations may request an Outreach Seminar be conducted at their facility. These seminars are short (approximately 2 hours in length) in-person lectures delivered by OWCN staff around lunchtime. Examples of presentation topics include: protocol updates, roles and responsibilities of the participant organization during oil spill (e.g., animal stabilization or volunteer support) and non-oil spill periods, and technology development. The Outreach Seminars provide an opportunity for OWCN staff to discuss questions specific to that participant’s facility or role within the network.