The Wyoming Game and Fish Commission Works to Limit Impacts of Renewable Energy
As renewable energy projects are gaining popularity over fossil fuels, wildlife managers’ will face new challenges. In order to limit the impacts on wildlife throughout the state, the Wyoming Game and Fish Commission guidelines and put forward recommendations for solar projects.
A Few Repercussions of Renewable Energy Projects:
Pronghorn antelope may avoid their regular winter ranges now containing wind turbines.
Female Grouse are less likely to choose boos-rearing and summer habitats in areas with turbine development.
Turbine blades kill birds and bats.
(Friedman, 2021)
The Wyoming Game and Fish Commission is looking to start early conversations with developers and conduct up to two years of wildlife monitoring before development in order to decrease impacts.
While the recommendations for renewable energy practices will be voluntary, as Game and Fish does not have a regulatory role, they will serve to advise developers based on the new 80-page guidelines (Thuermer Jr., 2021).
“It’s easier to protect wildlife by planning ahead than by trying to make up for destroyed habitat.”
Resources:
Friedman, S. (2021, January 29). New Wyo Game and Fish Guidelines Aim to Reduce Renewable Energy Impact. Retrieved February 14, 2021.
Thuermer, A. M., Jr. (2021, January 29). New Game and Fish Guidelines Aim to Reduce Renewable Energy Impact. Retrieved February 14, 2021.