September 17, 2008 – Minutes of Meeting

1. ITEMS:

1. A total of $172 was generated at the Fall Fair by the sale of cards (Betty Lou Hagen’s & Jean Wyenberg’s) and donations. Thanks to ‘Paper Choice Environmental Papers’ for donating envelopes to our cause;
2. GROWLS will conduct fund-raising on Sunday, 28 September at the Steve Elder concert (Haven);
3. GROWLS will participate in the Christmas Fair (22-23 November) by staffing a table;
4. Sheila L & Lynda K have volunteered to kick-off the School Visit Program;
5. Liz will conduct a Animal Rescue Course on 23 October at ‘Suzy’s’ (10 students maximum);
6. An otter-in-the-home avoidance article will be generated before next Spring. Jean W volunteered to conduct otter dens research;
7. Pictures (taken by Iain L) were distributed of power lines suspected in the electrocution of island eagles;
8. A discussion of healthy versus ill seal pups brought out several points for assessment:
• How long has the pup been monitored?
• Does the pup have a fat, sausage look (with slits for eyes) or withered, wrinkly look (with large, black eyes)?
• Can the skin be pinched and pulled significantly on the pup?
• What is the pup’s position on the beach in regards to tide level?
• Are there any signs of adult seals in the area?
• What obstacles confront the pup from returning to water?
• Is the pup’s personality ‘fiesty’ or lethargic?
• Are the flippers straight or curled?
9. Case Studies 20 Aug – 17 Sep 08 were reviewed (web page to be updated soonest). It was re-emphasized that any bat encounters must involve Twin Cedars Veterinary Clinic and the Ministry of Health. Any equipment used in captures (not just with bats) should be cleaned shortly thereafter. Liz recommends a 1/3 bleach -2/3 water solution;
10. Bill K elaborated on the DFO’s gift of 5 Marine Mammals Primary Response Manuals and stickers. Further education of the boating fraternity regarding this program was discussed (Canadian Power Squadron, Silva Bay Yacht Club, RVYC on Tugboat Island, etc.). DFO will be contacted for more involvement and possible re-supply of visual aids. School presentation kits were also to be investigated;
11. New capture equipment was demo’ed. A 5’ Catch Pole (collapsible­expandable loop on end) and a Catch Net (with mid-bag drawstring) was shown, along with new capture gloves (pliable hand-covering and armoured gauntlets). Purchase of an extendable (18’) net for small birds, etc. is underway. These capture tools will be available at the next GROWLS Monthly Meeting for attendees’ hands-on practice;
12. A VCR tape of July 2008 grizzly cubs release by Northern Lights Wildlife Society was viewed;

2. DISCUSSION:

1. we are still searching for the misplaced DVD from North Island Wildlife Recovery Association (Errington) featuring a segment on the Barred Owl (presentation given by Shirley Highfill on 16 January 2008);
2. it was suggested that GROWLS members become familiar with the Pros & Cons of wind turbine power. The Integrated Land Management Bureau is staffing an application www.arfd.bc.ca/ApplicationPosting/viewpost.jsp?PostID=10027 that should be of interest to all members. At the bottom of the referenced web page is a link to address any concerns and a note that reply to this application should be done not later than 24 September.

Statistics: 20 Aug - 17 September 2008

The meeting was adjourned at 2100L hrs. The next monthly meeting will be

Wednesday, 15 October @ 1900L hrs in the Rollo Seniors’ Centre.

Sheila Lake,  247-8886

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