July 20, 2009
Colorado is home to many birds of prey – from the Golden Eagle to the Great Horned Owl. Now, residents can get up close with these raptors and learn how Colorado Springs Utilities protects them as part of our operations.
Springs Utilities will host an open house Tuesday, July 21 to educate the community on raptors, their adaptations and the steps we can all take to help create a safer environment for them.
PacifiCorp, a utility in Wyoming, was recently fined by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service more than $10 million for unlawfully killing eagles and other protected birds. The Service noted that PacifiCorp failed to take safety measures with their electrical distribution and transmission facilities. Springs Utilities continues to meet or exceed wildlife regulations through careful mitigation prior to starting projects and ongoing proactive protection.
Participants at the open house will be able to see two raptors that have been preserved for educational purposes, as well as the protective devices used on utility poles to deter birds from landing and nesting.
In the vein of environmental stewardship, customers will also learn how to save water and money from Xeriscape™ experts. Springs Utilities staff will share information about the best plants that thrive in our semi-arid region. Afterward, they will lead tours through the Xeriscape Demonstration Garden.
Event details
Tuesday, July 21
5:30 p.m. PlantSelect Xeriscape program
6:30 p.m. Raptor protection presentation
Colorado Springs Utilities Conservation and Environmental Center, 2855 Mesa Road
Media opportunity
Springs Utilities’ wildlife biologist will be available for interviews Tuesday evening. The raptors and protective devices will be set up for filming.
