Atlantic Wildlife Institute planning $4M expansion

The Atlantic Wildlife Institute near Sackville is planning a majortwo-year expansion at the site to improve its infrastructure. For 20 years it has been taking care of injured or orphaned animals.

The institute'sPam Novak says the proposed $4-million project would make the institute a more complete wildlife operation and includemultiple upgrades for the site.

"In particular having a veterinary clinic on site, where we can then have veterinary staff and other professionals that would be able to provide services here," said Novak.

"It helps greatly reduce the stress level of animals. It would have to not be going back and forth to the different vet clinics that provide services for us. We can have that done here all on site."

Some of the money would go toward thetraining centre so it could have a residence. That way the centre could have more students, interns, and professionals who want to spend time working with the injured or orphaned animals.

Novak says they're also looking to upgrade their emergency response.

"Updating and upgrading our wildlife and emergency responders so that we can be better prepared for anything that might come our way," said Novak.

Novak says the first phase of fundraising is the AWI's 20/20 campaign. People can visit the institute's website and make a $20 donation. Novak says they're hoping to raise $200,000 this year.

"Our site will become the real focal point for the region in terms of offering the best quality care we can for wildlife."