Ohio wants wind power facilities to monitor for bird, bat deaths

COLUMBUS, Ohio (AP) — Companies that build wind farms in Ohio are being asked to monitor the areas for birds such as eagles and hawks, and for bats, both before and after turbines are built and running.

If it turns out that unacceptable numbers of animals are killed by the windmills, usage could be limited during peak migration periods, under a voluntary agreement being offered by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources.

If developers sign on and follow the rules, wind power facilities would not be shut down, even if they take a heavy toll on wildlife.

Gov. Ted Strickland wants the state relying more on alternative-energy sources, such as wind.

Amy Gomberg of Environment Ohio calls it a “good sign” that officials are thinking about the impact on birds and bats.