In partnership with corporate and non-profit groups, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is reaching out to electric power companies, bird lovers, and federal and state natural resource agencies to encourage the use of "bird-safe" power equipment that prevents the electrocution of raptors and other migratory birds. Distribution of a new video showing the specific dangers of high-voltage lines and other equipment to birds and proven ways to protect them is part of an effort to enlist the support of power producers and consumers in safeguarding birds.
The 26-minute video, titled "Raptors at Risk," was produced by a partnership of EDM International, an environmental engineering firm; Montana Power Company; Montana Audubon Society; North American Falconers Association; Southern Engineering Company; Swift Creek Consulting; and Arizona Public Service Company, in cooperation with the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, the Rural Utilities Service, and the Western Area Power Administration.
The video explains the electrocution problem and federal laws that protect birds while providing practical information on retrofitting existing power lines and installing new equipment to prevent bird deaths. The video points out the benefits of bird-safe lines to both utilities and their customers. Companies that protect birds eliminate "brown outs" and other power interruptions that occur when birds are electrocuted. They also avoid fines for violating bird protection laws and other legal costs that may be passed on to consumers in the form of rate hikes.
"Our goal is protecting birds, which is why partnerships like the one that produced this video are so important," said Kevin Adams, the Service
