FCC and Michigan to Study Bird Collisions

The FCC’s Wireless Telecommunications Bureau signed an agreement with the state of Michigan and the FCC Enforcement Bureau regarding Michigan’s 800 MHz public safety licenses. The pact between ensures that in connection with the construction of its statewide Michigan Public Safety Communications System, Michigan will comply with requirements under the FCC’s rules implementing the National Environmental Policy Act and the Endangered Species Act.
The statewide MPSCS includes 180 towers, which support essential communications for state and local public safety agencies. Michigan will participate in and facilitate an avian collision study at selected towers in the MPSCS. The avian study will be conducted over the next 21/2 years to contribute to the understanding of the effects of communications towers on birds protected by the ESA and migratory birds.
The Study is intended to systematically research the effect of lighting, height, and guy wires on avian collisions at selected towers in the 350-500 foot height range in the MPSCS. Depending on funding and the ability to negotiate access, the Avian Study may also be expanded to include some taller towers. The study is designed to help identify reasonable and cost-effective measures that might be available to minimize any impacts of the studied towers on birds protected by the ESA and migratory birds.
On August 20, the commission released a Notice of Inquiry to gather comment and information on the impact that communications towers may have on migratory birds.