At the November 16, 2021 City Council meeting, Mayor Kim Carr praised the efforts of three non-profit environmental and wildlife groups for going above and beyond during October’s oil spill off the HB coast. The Bolsa Chica Conservancy, the Huntington Beach Wetlands and Wildlife Care Center, and the Bolsa Chica Land Trust were all presented with the Mayor’s Making a Difference Award which recognizes selflessness, volunteerism, and exceptional community service in Huntington Beach.
While preventative measures were put in place early, these three groups worked with the City to immediately begin cleanup efforts as oil began to reach our coast and affect our local wildlife. Volunteers from across Surf City came together as OneHB—to lend a hand, to donate materials, and rescue and rehabilitate affected wildlife and wetlands.
In the immediate aftermath of oil spill, the Bolsa Chica Conservancy acted quickly to establish the Oil Spill Emergency Response Fund that raised more than $25,000 in donations from individuals who gave as little as $5 and as much as $500. The Oil Spill Emergency Response Fund distributed $10,000 to the Wetlands and Wildlife Care Center in Huntington Beach and also distributed $5,000 to the Huntington Beach Wetlands Conservancy.
The Huntington Beach Wetlands Conservancy, through various entities, received more than $90,000 in donations to aid in recovery efforts. In addition, the HB Wetlands Conservancy had a few professional volunteers performing samplings on the marshes on their behalf.
Bolsa Chica Land Trust responded to the unprecedented threats with quick and decisive action, supporting the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, and keeping the community connected and informed regarding the health of the Reserve’s wildlife.
The City is grateful for their efforts to mobilize and secure our Pacific Ocean and wetlands. We appreciate all that they have done for the City, not just during the oil spill but also year round as they inspire, lead, and educate our community in environmental sustainability.
