BASH implements tools to move flocks

  • Published
  • By Michael McKito
  • 82nd Training Wing Public Affairs
SHEPPARD AIR FORCE BASE, Texas --  The Sheppard AFB Bird Aircraft Strike Hazard program will implement several tools during the week of Nov. 15 to move flocks of birds from Sheppard.

For the 80th Flying Training Wing, safety in the air is paramount. The loss of life or aircraft is a tragedy avoided at all cost.

The 80th FTW experienced 50 bird strikes in 2010, 17 of which occurred at Sheppard, costing the taxpayer a total of $841,000 in aircraft damage.

The 80th Flying Training Wing Flight Safety Office is responsible for aviation safety programs. One of the ways they ensure every flight remains safe is through the BASH program.

According to Ted Pepps, the U. S. Department of Agriculture Wildlife Service's biologist, there are two categories of control measures used to manage the bird population on Sheppard's airfield.

"These measures consist of direct control and technical assistance," he said.

Incorporated in the direct method are hazing, shooting and trapping. One of the technical assistance methods includes relaying information to the pilots about the location of the birds and altering aircraft flying operations to avoid the birds.

"Habitat manipulation is another component of technical assistance that is used to make the airfield less attractive to wildlife," Mr. Pepps said.

Throughout the fall and winter, flocks of grackles and starlings traverse the airfield enroute to and from feeding grounds to roost at Sheppard.

Because of the large bird population, Mr. Pepps and his assistant Cory Simms, are setting the programs into motion this month to keep the birds from affecting flying operations.

"The methods to be used to scare the birds include board clappers and air horns, as well as the firing of propane cannons and pyrotechnics," Mr. Pepps said.

This effort will require at least five consecutive evenings of "scaring" the birds out of populated areas of the base in order to encourage the birds to move elsewhere.

"The difference between a non-damaging and catastrophic bird incident can literally come down to one inch," said Mr. Pepps.

Maj. Clifford Chapman, 80th FTW chief of flying safety, said the dollar amount saved through the efforts of Mr. Pepps and Mr. Simms is difficult to determine.

"It's impossible to know any dollar amount saved, aircraft damage prevented or lives saved as a result of having USDA personnel on board," said Maj. Chapman.