Berkeley, California (Friday, November 9, 2007, 5 p.m.) – Visitor access to the Berkeley Marina area will be restricted this weekend as a result of Wednesday’s oil spill.

                  A checkpoint will be established at Frontage Road and University to inform visitors about the risks and restrictions of visiting the waterfront area. Boats cannot come in or out of the harbor, and visitors are warned that the Bay water is contaminated and they should avoid coming in contact with the water or any fish. There are no restrictions to the restaurants and hotel.

                  “The oil is toxic to all animals, including humans, pets, and wildlife,” said Parks Recreation and Waterfront Acting Director William Rogers. “We know that people want to come down to help with the oiled wildlife and see the spill, but it’s important that, for everyone’s health, people stay away from the waterfront this weekend.”

                  Because of the toxic nature of the oil slick and sludge, wildlife experts and Parks department workers throughout the Bay Area are being trained to capture and care for the birds. Most birds will then be sent to the San Francisco Bay Oiled Wildlife Care and Education Center in Cordelia, Calif., for cleaning and release. Residents and visitors are being asked not to touch birds or other wildlife, but to report the sighting to Oiled Wildlife Care Network at (877) 823-6926.

                        The Harbor has been closed to boat traffic since Friday morning; it will remain so until further notice. The elimination of boat traffic helps confine the oil sludge and reduce the risk of further oil contamination in the marina. Boat owners can call 981-6740 for more information.
Updates will be posted on the City’s website at www.CityofBerkeley.Info.

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