Did you know that 10 to 41 million birds are killed each year by power line electrocution?
As a result of globalization, urbanization, and population growth, more power lines are being built everyday in all parts of the world.
Developing plans to keep birds safe and to reduce potential risks related to the interaction with utility structures is therefore a pressing issue that goes beyond federal and local regulations.
In response to this need and in an attempt to update transmission and distribution line standards, members of the Montana Electric Cooperatives’ Association (MECA) developed a statewide Avian Projection Plan (APP) intended to cover 56,000 miles of power lines. This plan, which should be completed by the end of the year will surely contribute to halt the countless deaths of these remarkable creatures.
Recently, Burns & McDonnell has joined the project to coordinate the MECA’s effort with the 22 participating members. In addition to providing a platform for coordination, and inspired by the growing need for training in environmental regulation and plans similar to the APP, Burns & McDonnell held a Wildlife & Energy Interaction Symposium at its headquarters in Kansas City, Missouri last June.
The point of this annual conference is to make energy professionals more aware of environmental regulation and the impact of energy projects on endangered species such as birds. The conference aims to bring together energy professionals and environmental scientists from all parts of the country in order to raise awareness on environmental responsibility and compliance with local and federal policy.
The fact that Burns & McDonnell is organizing this conference for the first time shows the company’s increasing environmental concern and responsibility. Hopefully, this conference will inspire more companies in the future to take measures that take into account the preservation of our ecosystem and our environment!