The Conservancy’s aviaries sustained major damage in the aftermath of winter storm Alfred when nearly twenty inches of heavy, wet snow fell within a few hours in late October.  The unprecedented snow caused aviary netting to rip open, fence poles to buckle, and tension cables to snap.  Several of our large aviaries collapsed despite valiant overnight efforts by our staff and volunteers.  While the aviaries could not be saved, the quick actions of the staff and volunteers saved the lives of hundreds of birds. 

UPDATE: Thanks to the generous support of LRWC members and the hard work of staff the aviairies have been rebuilt with modifications that should reduce the risk of extensive damage from future storms.  Thank you to all who supported the rebuilding effort!

1/31/12: Rebuilt aviary showing specially designed support pole bracket. In addition to the brackets, LRWC reworked support pole arrangement, shortened spans of unsupported netting and installed netting designed for heavy snow loads.