Volcano Watch: ‘A case-by-case basis,’ Alaska zoo lays out animal care plan
ANCHORAGE, Alaska (KTUU) - The Alaska Zoo is laying out its plan in anticipation of Mount Spurr’s possible eruption.
On Friday, the zoo’s executive director, Tristan Thon, told Alaska’s News Source that her team is briefed on its general emergency plan, which includes how to react in case of ash fall.
“I feel very confident that we are prepared for a variety of situations,” Thon said. “Of course, that will all depend on the amount of ash fall we receive. So, we plan to just continue monitoring the situation and adjusting that plan as necessary.”
Staffing Plan
All staff members, Thon said, are being equipped with personal protective equipment, including eye protection and an N95 mask. Additionally, Thon said, the zoo is asking staff members to wear long sleeves.
“It’s so important so that we can continue doing what we do everyday, which is just take great care of these animals,” Thon said.
The plan she told Alaska’s News Source was that the zoo adjusted based on what its current maintenance director experienced while working at the zoo during the 1992 Spurr eruption.
“We spoke to him, we asked for any updates, so we updated that plan,” Thon said.
Animal Care Plan
Thon told Alaska’s News Source that staff members will be keeping an eye out for animals experiencing distress. That includes, she said, respiratory issues or irritants in their eyes. Staff are advised then to contact the zoo’s veterinarian, in case an animal is in distress.
“Just like humans who are preparing for this, those are the systems that can be most affected by volcanic ash,” Thon said.
She also noted the zoo has an outsourced vet who is on call and visits weekly.
In case of an eruption, Thon told Alaska’s News Source that a majority of the animals have access to an enclosure, but wouldn’t say which ones don’t or how many.
“We’ll do anything we can, even if that includes needing to build a temporary shelter,” Thon said. “The biggest thing we are keeping in mind that will shift animals to buildings or shelters, where we are able.”
Animals can also, Thon said, be moved to the informatory or the cub facility at the zoo.
“It will be a case-by-case basis and we will see how everyone does, and we will make adjustments as necessary,” Thon said.
Outside of the shelter, the zoo said, it will be focused on ensuring that animals’ water and food sources stay covered and clean. That includes turning off and draining the pool systems for the polar bear, otter, and seal exhibits.
Thon adds that, at the moment, she is not concerned for any specific animal species.
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