Sep 19, 2003 12:00 PM

The Wireless Telecommunications Bureau of the Federal Communications Commission announced the signing of an agreement Wednesday with Michigan to gather empirical scientific information on bird collisions with towers as it builds a statewide public safety communications system.

The agreement ensures that Michigan will comply with requirements under the FCC's rules implementing the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) and the Endangered Species Act as it builds the Michigan Public Safety Communications System. The system includes 180 towers, providing communications for state and local public safety agencies.

Michigan agreed to aid with an Avian Collision Study at selected towers. The study will be conducted over the next two-and-one-half years and will contribute to the understanding of the effects of communications towers on migratory birds, including those protected as endangered species.

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