On August 24, 2026, a massive, 100+ year-old ash tree—seemingly in full vigor—snapped near the Vaibla Bird Observatory . Unfortunately, it fell in such a way that it crushed half of the corrugated roof of the large outbuilding we use. Before the heavy autumn rains and winter snow arrive, we urgently need to get a roof back over the building.

The attached photos give an overview of what happened, alongside an AI-generated reconstruction to help visualize the event. (Although the AI left the roof construction unfinished, we certainly hope to see it through to the end.)

The Vaibla Bird Observatory operates through the contributions of volunteers and has no steady source of income. This year, there were also no development projects funded by the state or foundations. 

We kindly ask for material and financial support to restore the roof. The construction budget is approximately 10,000 euros, and we have an agreement for the labor with a local construction company operating in our municipality. Both financial contributions and building materials would be of great help:

• 125 m² of corrugated fiber-cement roofing sheets (eternit);

• Timber/lumber (approximately):

  • For rafters and other structural parts: 50 × 150 × 5700 mm (~30 pcs);

  • For roof battens: 38 × 100 mm or 50 × 100 mm, 200 linear meters;

• Ridge flashing, roofing screws, fasteners...

Does anyone have surplus timber, or know of an affordable way to source it? Does anyone have good connections among building material suppliers? Would any construction company like to support our non-profit (NGO)? Any help is welcome and urgently needed.

Contact: vaibla@vaibla.net; +372 5039306

MTÜ Vaibla Linnujaam bank account (Swedbank): EE142200221074919980 (explanation: "annetus katuse taastamiseks" / "donation for roof restoration")