Bureau Waardenburg

Impact assessment studies
Birds & Wind energy

During the planning of wind turbine locations possible negative effects for birds have to be taken into account. For a good assessment of these effects knowledge about characteristic flight movements and the influence of wind turbines on flight behaviour are essential. Since 1993 Bureau Waardenburg has studied these effects at different locations. This resulted in a systematic mapping of flight patterns of birds in space and time. We have combined this research with studies on flight behaviour within close range of wind farms. Bureau Waardenburg carries out projects both in and outside of the Netherlands. We have easy access to international networks for the exchange of research experiences and results.

Projecten
	Effects of North Sea wind turbines on flying birds
	Overview projects windturbines & birds

	Meer projecten

Research methods

The risks of birds colliding with wind turbines are greatest during twilight and darkness. Consequently, it is of great importance to gather information about flight behaviour of local and migrating birds, especially during the night. Bureau Waardenburg has its own standard radar equipment and is, therefore, able to estimate collision risks during the night. The radars can be used in horizontal and vertical positions to register the spatial patterns and heights of flight movements. Data are analysed using common databases and statistical programmes. If necessary, we can fall back on our broad experience in the field of spatial and trend analyses. For spatial patterns analysis we use our extensive expertise in the field of Geographical Information Systems (GIS).

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Site assessments of small scale projects

Bureau Waardenburg is commissioned by various clients to give advice about the ecological effects of wind energy. At the start, a decision is reached whether an ecological risk assessment is necessary or not. When a risk assessment is required, the ecological specialists of Bureau Waardenburg can execute it. Bureau Waardenburg has made risk assessments involving birds at many locations throughout the Netherlands and abroad. Where necessary, we can complement these assessments with field studies using radar equipment. An evaluation along the lines of the European Bird Directive can be part of the effect studies. We offer sound advice based on own research combined with years of experience in other projects.

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Site assessments of large scale projects

The field in which Bureau Waardenburg works ranges from specialised ecological research projects to contributions for Environmental Impact Assessments. Working in cooperation with others or alone Bureau Waardenburg has written several Environmental Impact Assessments related to wind farms and birds. Apart from reporting on the effects on local and migrating birds, we suggest ecological measures for compensating or mitigating these effects.

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