TITLE
Recommendation to authorize City Manager to execute all documents necessary to enter into an agreement with United States Department of Agriculture, Wildlife Services Division, to provide wildlife mitigation at the Long Beach Airport in an annual amount not to exceed $40,000, for a one year period, with four one-year renewal options at the discretion of the City Manager. (District 5)
DISCUSSION
For years, the Long Beach Airport (Airport) has operated a catch and release program for wildlife on the airfield for obvious safety reasons. However, several factors have changed that require a more formal program.
First, the wildlife population in the Long Beach area, and particularly the Airport, continues to grow, increasing the safety risk and demand for a formal wildlife program. Second, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) required the Airport to complete a Wildlife Hazard Assessment (WHA), which recommended the development of a Wildlife Hazard Plan. Lastly, the United States Department of Agriculture, Wildlife Services Division (USDAWS), recently revised requirements for all Airports to band birds that are captured and relocated, which requires special federal permits.
The USDAWS Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, has wildlife biologists on staff that are currently preparing wildlife hazard plans, and are performing wildlife management services at other airports that are governed by Title 14, Part 139 of the Code of Federal Regulations (14 CFR Part 139 - Airport Certification). In addition, the USDAWS biologists have the required skills and special permits for banding and relocating birds.
The recommended agreement calls for the USDAWS to provide the Airport the service of a qualified Wildlife Biologist on a part-time basis who will assist the Airport with:
• Banding and relocating large birds to a more conducive environment.
• Provide technical assistance to Airport staff regarding wildlife mitigation activities, including ongoing compliance with relevant Federal, State and local laws and regulations. A Wildlife Biologist will work with Airport staff.
• Provide data and assist in preparation of the Airport’s USFWS Permit Report and application.
• Conduct wildlife monitoring surveys in support of existing Wildlife Hazard Assessment.
• Assist in the development of a Wildlife Hazard Management Plan.
This matter was reviewed by Deputy City Attorney Richard Anthony on October 23, 2012, and Budget Management Officer Victoria Bell on October 25, 2012.
TIMING CONSIDERATIONS
City Council action on this matter is requested on November 13, 2012, in order to authorize commencement of these services.
FISCAL IMPACT
The total cost of the contract for FY 13 is $40,000 and is budgeted in the Airport Enterprise Fund (EF 320) in the Long Beach Airport Department (AP). There is no local job impact associated with the recommendation.
SUGGESTED ACTION
Approve recommendation.
Respectfully Submitted,
MARIO RODRIGUEZ
DIRECTOR, LONG BEACH AIRPORT
APPROVED:
PATRICK H. WEST
CITY MANAGER