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Enhance conservation of the globally threatened Imperial Eagle in Bulgaria by reducing mortality caused by power lines (LIFE for safe grid)
Start date: Sep 1, 2013, End date: Aug 31, 2018 PROJECT  FINISHED 

Background During the implementation of the LIFE SAVE the RAPTORS project (LIFE07 NAT/BG/000068), which targeted the imperial eagle (Aquila heliaca) and Saker falcon, it became clear that the main cause of death of young imperial eagles is electrocution by uninsulated electricity poles. A study undertaken during the course of the project showed that there are more than 5 000 dangerous electricity poles in the distribution area of the imperial eagle in Bulgaria. Objectives The long-term objective of the LIFE for safe grid project is to ensure an increase in the imperial eagle population in Bulgaria by reducing the impact of its main threat. In aiming to reach this overall, long term goal, the project targets the following specific objectives: Increase knowledge of the risk posed by overhead electric power lines to the imperial eagle by identifying areas of high risk and carrying out mitigation measures; Establish a GIS database of eagle nest sites, temporary settlement areas and hazardous power lines, and produce a report on the risks, mortality, priority areas and mitigation measures based on such field work and GIS analysis; Reduce mortality caused by electrocution and collision with electric power lines in the most important Bulgarian Natura 2000 network sites for the eagle by insulating dangerous poles and avoiding electrocution and collisions with overhead power lines; Increase the capacity of key stakeholders (other electricity line operators in Bulgaria and relevant authorities) for solving the conflicts between birds and power lines in the country; and Increase public/stakeholder awareness on conflict between electric power lines and conservation of the imperial eagle and other birds. Expected results: The project expects to achieve the following results: Reduced electrocution risks for at least 16 breeding pairs (about 80% of all known pairs) of imperial eagle; at least 2,740 dangerous poles insulated; Reduced electrocution risks in the main temporary settlement areas for juveniles harbouring more than 15 individuals; at least 700 dangerous poles insulated; Reduced collision and electrocution risk for five breeding pairs and at least 10 juveniles birds per year; The conversion of 45 km of overhead power lines into underground lines; the replacement of a 15 km bare conductor power line with an insulated cable; The holding of two workshops where information will be distributed to representatives of key stakeholder groups (30 people in total); Installation of 12 information boards; and Creation of an electronic audio-visual archive, website, printed and press materials for dissemination purposes. Press briefings will also be held to ensure broadcast news coverage.

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