On Thursday, June 11, 2020, a moose was found to be traveling through the city of Lowell. Due to both the populated location and difficult conditions, it was determined that the moose needed to be relocated. Given the weather conditions, traffic, and terrain including the Merrimack River, multiple agencies assisted in the relocation.
Personnel specially trained in the chemical immobilization of animals were able to immobilize the moose as it entered the river. Proper planning allowed for several vessels to be present with flotation equipment to keep the moose afloat during the rescue process. The animal was removed from the water and checked for any injuries or damage. After ensuring the moose was uninjured, it was placed into a vehicle for transportation to a more desirable location. The moose was released and monitored until it fully recovered from the effects of the immobilization agent.
The rescue was all-encompassing, involving the following agencies working together to ensure the well-being of the moose and the general public:
1.) Massachusetts Environmental Police
2.) Massachusetts Division of Fisheries & Wildlife (MassWildlife)
3.) Lowell Police Department (Official)
4.) UMass Lowell PD
5.) National Park Service
6.) Lowell Fire Department