Is your utility protected with an Avian Protection Plan?  The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has recently taken enforcement action against a transmission line operator for a failure to comply with the Migratory Bird Treaty Act (MBTA).  Reducing liability under this act can be difficult, but taking the right steps can help avoid costly fines and project delays.  Avian Protection Plans (APPs) are a significant step towards reducing liability under MBTA.  APPs serve as a vehicle for agency consultation, assist with development of design criteria/mitigation, guide construction and operations staff, and provide a platform for effective public relations by demonstrating a commitment to environmental protection.  For more information on how NRC can help, please see our Avian Services, or contact Brian Bub in our Midwest Region (Cottage Grove, WI) or Scott Yanco in our Rocky Mountain Region (Denver, CO).