With the publication of the USFWS 2024 Eagle Rule, power line operators can now apply for Eagle Incidental Take Permits (EITP) for Power Lines. One of the General Permit conditions of the EITP for power lines requires the development of a proactive retrofit strategy. To meet this EITP condition, companies must first identify poles within their operating systems that pose a risk to eagles.
WEST experts have developed a 2-step process that begins with a High-value Eagle Habitat Assessment to assist companies in identifying high-risk eagle areas, or the locations within a company’s service territory or area of operation where eagles are most likely to interact with power line infrastructure. Next, WEST can evaluate power pole designs within these high-value habitats to assist companies in identifying which poles pose a risk to eagles so they can calculate the number of poles that would require retrofitting as part of the proactive retrofit strategy permit condition.
Ready to prepare for EITP requirements? Contact one of WEST’s Wildlife–Power Interactions Specialists, Meggin Weinandt ([email protected]) or Geoffrey Palmer ([email protected]), to learn how WEST can assist your company in evaluating risks to eagles and in navigating permitting options!
