Gilbert wildlife rescuers have taken in more than 30 animals as municipal crews drain the lake at Freestone Park for renovations. Local volunteers are providing medical intervention for sick ducks and secure new homes for displaced domestic waterfowl and turtles amid the emptying basin.
Wildlife Rescuers Step In As Freestone Park Lake Drains
The renovation project at Gilbert’s Freestone Park triggered a wildlife rescue effort after local groups observed distressed animals in the shrinking water supply. Tasha Ellsworth, a volunteer wildlife rehabilitator representing East Valley Wildlife and Crystal’s Critter Haven, noted that the organizations collectively gathered over 30 animals during the effort. Rescuers found dead fish stranded in shallow water across the park, while several ducks displayed signs of illness.
“We’re working to help the domestic ducks that are here, as well as now the sick ducks that need intervention and whatever turtles are needing saving as well,” Ellsworth said. The operation shifted from a placement situation to a rescue once volunteers encountered ailing waterfowl. While testing remains pending to confirm the exact illness, Ellsworth stated that botulism is one possible cause for the sickness affecting the park’s duck population.
“We’re thinking it might be botulism. We’re not sure. We’re waiting on testing,” Ellsworth said regarding the ongoing medical evaluations.
Town Officials Defend Wildlife Plan and Cite Community Collaboration
Gilbert Parks and Recreation Director Michael Elliott explained that the town established a wildlife plan prior to launching the renovation work. The plan accounted for turtle relocation and anticipated that waterfowl would naturally move toward alternative local water sources as water levels receded.
Town leadership adjusted their approach after receiving concerns from community members. Elliott acknowledged that community input prompted municipal crews to partner more closely with specialized wildlife groups on-site.
“We don’t profess to have all of the answers, but we’ve found value in collaborating with the community and with some of those wildlife experts who have way more subject matter knowledge than we do,” Elliott said.
Crews are actively finishing the drainage of the main lake and clearing water from an adjacent retention basin. Elliott noted that eliminating the remaining water will encourage waterfowl to move to another water source. Town officials plan to use lessons learned to refine protocols for similar lake renovation initiatives in the future.
“There are always going to be opportunities to improve on a project and collaborating with the community and getting their input and getting their feedback and building upon the plan that we have already in place,” Elliott added.
Did you know? Freestone Park features a fishing lake that requires renovation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is the lake at Freestone Park being drained?
The town of Gilbert is draining the lake for renovations.
What kind of animals are being rescued from the park?
Volunteers from East Valley Wildlife and Crystal’s Critter Haven are rescuing domestic ducks, sick waterfowl needing medical treatment, and local turtles.
What is causing the ducks to get sick?
While definitive answers are pending laboratory results, volunteer rehabilitator Tasha Ellsworth stated that botulism is suspected as a possible cause for the illness observed in some ducks.
How can residents support the wildlife rescue effort?
Local wildlife groups like East Valley Wildlife and Crystal’s Critter Haven are accepting donations.
Support local animal rescue efforts by visiting the East Valley Wildlife or Crystal’s Critter Haven websites to donate. Share your thoughts on local park management in the comments below.
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