IMLAY - Lynda Sugasa, executive director of Safe Haven Rescue Zoo, announced that the wildlife sanctuary has received a $15,000 grant from Barrick Turquoise Ridge. Barrick Community Relations Supervisor Katie Neddenriep traveled from Elko to present the award on March 21.
Barrick has been a major supporter of Safe Haven since the sanctuary's inception in Pershing County in 2006. A grant of $25,000 in 2010 funded a rescued Siberian tiger enclosure and the facility's solar power expansion project. This latest grant will provide funding for the construction of a new wildlife rescue enclosure.
Safe Haven is continually receiving placement requests for surrendered, abandoned or illegally owned confiscated exotics. The facility has no additional enclosures currently available. When an animal is confiscated, there are no local holding facilities that are adequate for these types of animals. A "rescue ready" enclosure will allow Safe Haven to immediately provide emergency placement.
There has been a substantial increase in requests for black bear placements from Alaska, as they are no longer allowing them to be rehabilitated and reintroduced. And, due to the Zanesville, Ohio, incident, Ohio lawmakers have changed regulations that no longer will allow private ownership of exotics.
Although this is a welcome improvement, it is also creating an added demand on sanctuaries such Safe Haven to provide immediate placement housing.
Barrick and Safe Haven share a commitment to the environment, community development and education. The award letter recognizes Safe Haven for "its wildlife rescue and protection efforts: and for operating in a socially responsible manner." Barrick is ranked as a global leader in corporate social responsibility.
Safe Haven is also a popular destination for school field trips. Students benefit from an engaging educational presentation combined with hands-on activities and the unique experience of observing wildlife in secure habitats that mimic their natural environment.
The resident animals include many that were rescued from the exotic pet trade that are not candidates for release. Safe Haven will be hosting several school field trips this month.
Safe Haven conducts tours and educational programs by appointment. Please call Sugasa at (775) 538-7093. For more information, visit Safe Haven online at www.safehavenwildlife.com.
Barrick Turquoise Ridge is also an event sponsor at Safe Haven Rescue Zoo's 5th Anniversary Fundraiser Event May 19 at the Winnemucca Convention Center. All proceeds from the event directly support Safe Haven's rescue services and educational outreach programs. For ticket and table sponsorship purchases, please call (775) 538-7093 or e-mail safehavenwildlife1@yahoo.com.
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