Government officials are extending the length of federal permits allowing businessmen in the renewable-energy sector to unintentionally kill protected birds for 30 years. According to the San Francisco Chronicle:
U-T San Diego reported Monday that the proposed changes would lengthen the duration of a permit from five years to 30.
The permits are intended to help provide clear rules as public lands are opened up to wind farms and other renewable energy.
On wind farms, spinning turbine blades inevitably kill some birds.
Administered under the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act, the permits set limits on how many eagles can be killed and permit holders commit to compensation if they go over.