Our Ornithology team works with our clients to ensure operational wind farms remain compliant with any conditions relating to birds associated with grants of planning permission. Bird surveys do not end once planning permission is granted; instead, it becomes an ongoing process to safeguard avian species while enabling sustainable energy production.
Bespoke monitoring plans
Every wind farm project presents unique challenges. At MKO, we begin by scoping and designing detailed, bespoke monitoring plans tailored to each site’s key ornithological receptors and any relevant planning conditions. These plans address various data requirements, such as flight activity data (through vantage point surveys), breeding raptor monitoring, and tracking of migratory bird populations.
Our methodologies align with established best practices in the field of ornithological monitoring, ensuring robust and reliable data collection. Each survey is designed with the specific behaviours and ecological requirements of the target species in mind. By employing a range of proven techniques, the team collects precise data that fulfils regulatory obligations while enhancing knowledge of avian ecology and informing conservation efforts.
A critical part of our work involves collaboration with our in-house collision monitoring team of conservation dogs and handlers. This expertly trained team conducts systematic searches to identify bird and bat fatalities on-site, ensuring thorough, efficient and reliable data collection.
Tackling site-specific challenges
Certain sites require special measures due to their ecological context. In sensitive areas, where protected species may be present, we adopt tailored strategies to minimise disturbance and impact. For instance, field teams carry out targeted surveys to identify potential roosting areas and nesting sites, taking proactive steps to manage potential risks to these species.
In some cases, practical interventions are necessary to mitigate site attractiveness for certain species. For example, removing carrion ensures that the area does not unintentionally draw scavenging birds, thereby reducing potential risks while maintaining compliance with planning conditions.
Advanced surveying techniques
To complement our field surveys, MKO’s drone survey team provides an additional layer of precision. After surveyors narrow down potential nesting areas, drones can be deployed to locate nests of sensitive species. This approach minimises human disturbance while providing highly accurate data on nesting locations, enhancing the overall effectiveness of our monitoring efforts.
Reporting for compliance
The detailed data collection, from both bird surveys and carcass searches, forms a vital component of our monitoring reports, which include data analyses, species distribution mapping, mortality estimates for the monitoring year, and recommendations for continued compliance.
Our reports are prepared to meet the rigorous requirements set by regulatory authorities, ensuring that planning conditions are satisfied. These reports provide a comprehensive overview of monitoring outcomes, offering a detailed record of avian activity on and around the wind farm and compliance with planning conditions.
Beyond ornithology
While our team focuses on ornithological monitoring, MKO offers a wide range of additional post-consent environmental monitoring and compliance services from planning services through to ECoW services to include bat monitoring and broader ecological surveys, ensuring that all aspects of a project’s commitments are met. This comprehensive approach supports our clients in balancing renewable energy production with ecological and environmental stewardship.
Supporting Renewable Energy with Care
At MKO, we are proud to play a role in Ireland’s renewable energy sector by supporting wind energy developments in achieving compliance while prioritising environmental sustainability. By tailoring our services to the specific needs of each project, we help clients meet their obligations and uphold the highest standards of environmental care.
If you’d like to learn more about how MKO can support your permitted wind energy development in the planning compliance process, our team is always happy to discuss our services.