Osprey couple in their nest built by MPEI (photo by Les Shankland)

U.S. Forest Service's Doreen Sumerlin (center) presents award to MPEI staff members (left to right) - Greg Guthridge, Les Shankland, Bruce Van Bockern

The U.S. Forest Service recognized MPEI on July 13, 2006 for their dedication in minimizing adverse impacts to protected avian species on power lines. Endless times, MPEI crews have been called in emergency situations to relocate nests, avoiding avian electrocutions and collisions with power lines. Working in partnership with the USFS, the numbers of baby chicks has increased greatly and one nest may now have up to four chicks. Through this collaborative effort, the USFS and MPEI are working together in protecting the avian environment, while meeting energy needs. Doreen Sumerlin of the USFS is seen presenting the award to MPEI staff members, Greg Guthridge, Les Shankland, Bruce Van Bockern and Todd Clausen (not pictured).