Wind Power and Wildlife

Why is the Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies involved in wind energy issues?

World wide energy development is expected to grow dramatically over the next 20 years. Wind energy development is increasing due to renewable portfolio standards (RPS) being developed in States across the country and pressure to decrease reliance on fossil fuels and other energy sources. State fish and wildlife agencies are involved in different aspects of wind power development and to different degrees (e.g., consultation with developers, review of permits, cooperation with other states agencies and utility regulators). However, when it comes to impacts on wildlife relatively little is known about how to predict mortality events and impacts associated with degradation or loss of habitat. Direct, indirect, and cumulative impacts analysis are often lacking and State Wildlife Agencies are facing numerous challenges when it comes to managing wildlife resources while trying to balance growing energy requirements.

Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies Wind Energy Contacts

Debbie Hahn
Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies
Migratory Bird Coordinator
202/624-8917
dhahn@fishwildlife.org

Wind Power Links

Priority Activities

Events, Symposiums and Discussions

Existing Wind Power Siting Guidelines

Resources (Web and Publications)