The U.S. Geological Survey released new research that shows that several species of grassland birds are impacted by wind energy facilities for years after construction. The study, published in late July in the journal Conservation Biology, evaluated the immediate and long-term effects of facilities built on native mixed-grass prairies between 2003 and 2012. The researchers found that seven of nine species (including the significantly declining grasshopper sparrow and bobolink) studied were displaced from suitable breeding habitat as much as 300 meters from turbines. This displacement often occurred within one year of construction and persisted for at least five years.

"Understanding how wind turbines affect breeding birds can help wind developers and land managers site turbines in areas with minimal impact to birds, while striving to meet energy demands, reduce carbon emissions and provide energy security," said Jill Shaffer, a USGS scientist and lead author of the study. "The Great Plains supports some of the last remaining native temperate grasslands in North America. Proper management of these valuable wildlife habitats can help maintain overall ecosystem health for the benefit of animals and people."