New Mexico Wind Farm Project Integrates Bird Conservation Measures in Transmission Line Development
The SunZia project, the largest renewable energy infrastructure project in U.S. history, has completed its 550-mile transmission line, carrying electricity from 914 wind turbines in New Mexico across the Western grid. This milestone is crucial for decarbonizing the country's energy supply. However, the project faced challenges regarding its impact on wildlife, particularly birds. Conservationists, including Audubon, collaborated with Pattern Energy and project partners starting in 2018, years before construction began. This early engagement allowed for the integration of conservation science into the design decisions. Concrete changes were implemented, such as installing bird flight diverters on high-risk portions of the transmission line to increase visibility for birds and relocating transmission line crossings along the Rio Grande River to reduce hazards for migratory species like Sandhill Cranes. Additionally, where feasible, portions of the line were co-located alongside existing rights-of-way to mini... 
