In addition to research-based projects, GBBO also has experience with consulting work, monitoring the impacts of renewable energy facilities on birds and bats by conducting ongoing standardized mortality surveys. These efforts are critical in understanding and minimizing any negative effects of renewable energy production on birds and bats.
Altamont Wind Energy Resources Area
In the Altamont Wind Energy Resources Area in Alameda Co., CA, GBBO is working with operators, regulators, and partners to collect data on the impacts of wind turbines on wildlife. Our main activity is using highly trained scent wildlife detection dogs to locate any bird or bat mortalities around turbines. These are collected and classified and used to estimate mortality rates and determine if and when management action is called for.
Working Dog, Malko (now retired), taking a break in the shade. Photo by Murrelet Halterman
Working Dog, Malko (now retired), taking a break in the shade.
Crescent Dunes Solar Energy Project
At the Crescent Dunes Solar Energy Project facility near Tonopah, NV, GBBO is conducting ongoing mortality monitoring in accordance with the project’s Avian and Bat Protection Plan (ABPP). Standardized mortality surveys are conducted with human survey teams for seven consecutive days each month. Mortalities are collected and recorded to create facility-wide mortality estimates from mortality monitoring data. In addition to mortality monitoring, standardized avian use surveys are conducted to characterize the avian community at the facility and identify any species at risk.