As we all know by now, the economy and livelihood for many Americans is being dramatically threatened by the recent oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico. We have put together some information to give you an idea of what is going on and possibly ways you can help. Twenty-one years after the Exxon Valdez oil spill, the wildlife of Alaska’s Prince William Sound is still struggling to recover. With a sunken BP oil rig gushing thousands of barrels of oil each day into the Gulf of Mexico, the battered Gulf Coast region–still recovering from the devastation of Hurricane Katrina–is bracing for its own catastrophe. The New York Times has published an interactive map of timelines and dates for the extent and expansion of the oil spill in the Gulf. You will see that the Exxon Valdez spill was 10.8 million gallons, while the current estimate in the Gulf is hovering around 95.1.
Not only are some 600 animal species in danger of becoming extinct, but the region’s fishing industry is threatened (May traditionally marks the start of the Gulf Coast fishing season), as is the livelihood for many Gulf Coast residents.
Ways you can help:
Dine Out for the Gulf Coast, June 10-12
www.dineoutforthegulfcoast.org
National Wildlife Federation – The oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico threatens hundreds of species, and some of its effects may not be felt for months-or longer. The National Wildlife Federation has set up mobile giving services to support their work in the Gulf Coast. Donors can send a text message with the code “WILDLIFE” to 20222 to automatically give a $10 donation to help wildlife affected by the oil spill.
Oxfam America – Working to help affected communities with financial assistance, as well as protect local wetlands and marshes. Make a tax-deductible donation to Oxfam America.
OilSpillVolunteers.com – You can register through OilSpillVolunteers.com to volunteer or join a cleanup organization.
BP Volunteer Hotline – Numbers if you need to report injured wildlife or damage related to the spill. You can also request volunteer information at 866-448-5816.
Global Green USA – Working to protect injured wildlife and to lobby Congress to enforce tougher regulations on the oil and coal industries. Volunteer with Global Green or donate to support these efforts.
The National Audubon Society – Asking concerned citizens to donate or volunteer. Sign up to get trained and volunteer to help local birds.
The International Bird Rescue Research Center – Coordinating a professional rescue team to help birds covered in oil. You can help by reporting wildlife affected by the oil spill to the organization by calling 866-557-1401. You can also make a donation to support their work.
Sierra Club – Gathering volunteers to help with the cleanup efforts on the Gulf Coast. Sign up online to volunteer and the Sierra Club will help you find the right opportunities for you.
Coalition To Restore Coastal Louisiana is also helping to coordinate volunteers. You can register online to volunteer or make a donation.
