Kasco De-Icing Equipment Helps Rescue Whales in Universal Pictures’ The Big Miracle
Movie based on company’s efforts to free gray whales trapped in ice near the Artic Circle in 1988
Published: Sunday, March 25, 2012 7:00 am
By: Kasco Marine
Prescott, WI – Kasco Marine, a global leader in products that promote healthy water quality in ponds and lakes, was a key participant in “Operation Breakthrough”, the 1988 Alaska gray whale rescue and basis for the Universal Pictures film The Big Miracle in theaters Feb. 3 and starring Drew Barrymore, John Krasinski and Ted Danson.
As the world watched “Operation Breakthrough” unfold at the northern most point of the U.S. near Point Barrow, Ala., it became clear that rescue workers were having a difficult time maintaining critical open water and the whales were showing signs of distress. Kasco Marine, a small family-owned Minnesota company, put its proprietary water circulation technology to work to keep the whales alive as they would keep man-made holes in the ice as large as 12 feet by 40 feet clear to allow the whales to surface for air.
“Kasco Marine realized that not only would our de-icing equipment withstand the sub zero temperatures, but the hum of the motor would attract the whales to the holes to allow them to surface for air,” said Rick Skluzacek who traveled to Alaska with Greg Ferrian and 17 de-icers.
Skluzacek and Ferrian worked alongside U.S. government officials, marine biologists, Eskimos and Greenpeace members to move the whales over a half mile towards a Russian ice breaker that lead the whales to open water. Following the events, the two men were invited to the White House and presented with a letter of recognition from President Ronald Reagan and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Services and a special gift from the Russian ambassador.
About Kasco Marine
Family owned for over four decades, Kasco Marine is a recognized leader in products that promote healthy water quality in ponds and lakes. Kasco is based in Prescott, Wis. And manufactures a complete range of floating fountains, pond aerators, water circulators and de-icers for projects of all sizes. All Kasco products are made from the highest-grade components to provide lasting satisfaction. For more information, visit www.KascoMarine.com or email [email protected].
