WGFD seeks public comment on wind energy impacts on wildlife
by Wyoming Game and Fish
November 9, 2009
The Wyoming Game and Fish Department is soliciting public comments on a new draft document: "Wind Energy Issues: Impacts and Mitigation for Wildlife in Wyoming." The document provides recommendations for assessing impacts to wildlife from wind energy projects, for collecting data, and for mitigating effects on wildlife.
"There is a rush to develop wind energy in Wyoming, but there is also very little research on the potential impacts of wind energy on wildlife other than bats, songbirds, and raptors," said WGFD Wind Task Force Chair Scott Gamo. "The draft recommendations summarize the existing research. Based on the research compiled it’s clear that we need to understand much more about how wind energy development affects wildlife and their habitats. Until we have a better understanding of the potential impacts on a variety of wildlife, we are providing these recommendations for developers based on the best professional judgment and most current information available."
The department is especially concerned about the potential impacts of wind energy on sage grouse, which are highly sensitive to disturbances and habitat modifications.
The draft document is available on the WGFD website at http://gf.state.wy.us . The public can comment on the draft document in writing through 5:00 pm on December 18, 2009. Mail comments to:
Wind Energy Recommendation Comments
WGFD Habitat Protection Program
5400 Bishop Blvd.
Cheyenne, WY 82006
The department will be meeting with wind energy industry representatives, conservation groups, and others to discuss these draft recommendations. The Wyoming Game and Fish Commission will review the document and public comments in early 2010.
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