Thurston County Public Works Parks & Trails recently partnered with Puget Sound Energy (PSE) to relocate an osprey nest at Glacial Heritage Preserve. Initially situated on top of an active power pole, the nest posed potential risks to the osprey and the community, including electrocution, power outages, and fire hazards.

PSE spearheaded the project under its Avian Protection Program, a multi-faceted initiative with goals ranging from regulatory compliance to improving electrical system reliability. Key elements of the program include adherence to the Migratory Bird Treaty Act, which protects over 1,000 bird species, and the use of specialized equipment and wire covers to prevent avian electrocution.

Given the potential threats from the nest's initial location, swift action was crucial. PSE's team determined the best course of action was to build a new perch and relocate the nest. During the relocation process, the ospreys were not in the nest, and no eggs or chicks were present, allowing for a smoother transition. The team observed osprey flying over the site, signifying minimal disturbance to the birds.

Our Parks & Trails team worked closely with PSE to navigate challenges such as identifying land ownership, detecting underground utilities, and ensuring the safety of the osprey and personnel involved in the relocation. Through this collaborative approach, we accelerated decision-making and were poised to efficiently overcome potential challenges.

While we don't plan continuous monitoring of the site, the success of this project will be gauged by whether the ospreys choose the newly installed platform for their 2024 nesting season.

This project is an excellent example of the coexistence of community infrastructure with wildlife conservation. Thanks to PSE's Avian Protection Program and our collaborative efforts, we are making strides in reducing bird-related injuries and improving the reliability of electrical systems in the county, setting a new standard for community partnerships in environmental stewardship.