🎶 The BRT is Back in Town
OWCN Returns to In-Person Basic Responder Training
After a few years of Zoom breakout rooms, emoji hand-raises, and the classic “you’re on mute” moments, the (non-virtual) Basic Responder Training (BRT) is officially back — and we’re thrilled to be face-to-face with the Network again!
On March 5, 2025, the Oiled Wildlife Care Network (OWCN) hosted our first in-person Basic Responder Training (BRT) since 2020 at one of our amazing Member Organizations, SeaWorld San Diego. We welcomed 23 new responders for a full day of training, teamwork, and Tyvek. Participants represented a range of OWCN Member Organizations, including San Diego Humane Society Project Wildlife, Pacific Marine Mammal Center, International Bird Rescue, Wildlife Innovations, Wetlands and Wildlife Care Center, the Aquarium of the Pacific, and of course SeaWorld San Diego. Whether seasoned animal care professionals or brand-new recruits, each responder walked away better prepared to support California’s wildlife when an oil spill happens.
Building the Foundation: OWCN’s Training Pyramid in Action
As the second tier on the OWCN responder training pyramid, the BRT is an introductory, in-person course that walks responders through the oiled wildlife response process and the roles they may play during an oil spill. This day-long training blends lecture, demonstrations, and hands-on practice — basically, everything you need to go from “What’s an ACT (animal collection tag)?” to “I’m ready to deploy!” After completing online prerequisites making up the first tier of the the training pyramid (like the Core Webinar Series), the BRT takes responder preparedness further by connecting the dots in a live setting, ensuring participants understand essential concepts and gain the fundamental skills needed for wildlife response. Graduates of the BRT receive priority access to shift sign-ups during oil spill responses over those who have only completed the Core Webinars. This training also serves as a stepping stone toward more advanced roles within OWCN’s training pyramid, such as Oiled Wildlife Specialist and Oiled Wildlife Manager.
The BRT Breakdown
This BRT covered a full range of response topics, including:
- OWCN structure and how wildlife fits into California’s oil spill response
- Responder roles and deployment logistics
- Safety essentials, including PPE use, zoonosis awareness, and why duct-taping your pant legs isn’t just a fashion statement
- Wildlife capture and handling basics
- Triage and transport procedures
- Hands-on stations featuring Care and Field tools and equipment, PPE donning and doffing, and some crowd competitions for SWAG
Participants brought positive attitudes and a wide range of experience from their respective member organizations, which made for rich discussions and engaging hands-on learning. There were thoughtful questions, enthusiastic participation, and a whole lot of note-taking — plus a few laughs, especially when it came time to (Tyvek) suit up.
The Heart Behind the Hands-On
Beyond the content, the biggest win was the chance to reconnect in person with the incredible members of our Network. Training face-to-face — shoulder-to-shoulder — builds confidence, community, and shared understanding, all of which are critical during an oil spill. The return of the in-person BRT was a strong step toward growing and refreshing the network’s in-person responder capacity, and we’re excited for what’s ahead.
Thank You, SeaWorld!
We can’t say this enough: a huge thank you to SeaWorld San Diego for hosting this training and making us feel welcome. From the classroom space to the staff support, they helped make the day a success. Their partnership is a vital part of OWCN’s mission, and we’re grateful for their ongoing dedication to oiled wildlife response and preparedness.
Training Season is Just Getting Started!
More trainings! More connections! More hands-on learning! Check out our 2025 training calendar for upcoming trainings near you! Sign up by logging into your Better Impact account then navigate to Opportunities. If you’re interested in becoming an OWCN responder — or just want to learn more about what we do — visit www.owcn.org to find out how you can get involved.
