During tomorrow’s City Council Meeting (October 17, 2023) the City Council will hold a public hearing on changing City Code 17.76.070 Solar Energy Devices (Panels and Collectors). “The proposed ordinance amends EMMC 17.76.070 Solar Panel Protection, in order to discourage or prevent birds from nesting and roosting under the panels.”
The Eagle Mountain Nature and Wildlife Alliance sent the following email to the City Council, mayor, and other city officials on 10/14/2023 and proposed several changes to the proposed ordinance change.
Dear Mayor and Council Members:
The Eagle Mountain Nature and Wildlife Alliance has reviewed the proposed language for EMMC 17.76.070, Solar Energy Devices (Panels or Collectors), amending the code to discourage or prevent birds from nesting or roosting under the panels. We submit the following as a public comment for your consideration and inclusion with the meeting record:
The Alliance is concerned the vague wording may result in fabric mesh being installed around the solar panel arrays/collectors on roof tops. Fabric mesh presents a true hazard to birds and other creatures which can become entangled and end up trapped or injured in the fabric. This would not only be a hazard to the birds but would also be a distressing event for the homeowner or the business owner and customers.
There are many manufacturers of solar panel skirting, fabricated as a sold panel or as ½” wire mesh, coated with a black PVC coating. These products are routinely used in rooftop solar panel applications. Such materials are currently in use and widely available for this purpose. This skirting has proven to be effective for the intended purpose, has a professional appearance, and is durable and affordable.
We propose modifications to the proposed language, so it reads as follows:
“Collectors on rooftops with a two-inch (2”) or greater gap between the bottom of the panel and the rooftop shall have a one-half inch (1/2”) black PVC-coated wire mesh or a solid black UV-resistant solar skirt installed around the entire panel array and maintained in good repair. The solar skirting must be securely attached below the panels and above the roof using metal clips and UV-rated zip ties manufactured for this specific application to prevent birds from getting under the panel and nesting and/or roosting.”
We appreciate your consideration of our suggestion and urge you to modify the proposed language accordingly.
Marian Burningham
Board of Directors
Co-founder
Mike Kieffer – Editor-in-Chief, Cedar Valley Sentinel
Mike Kieffer is a dynamic leader and community advocate based in Eagle Mountain, Utah. He serves as the Editor-in-Chief of the Cedar Valley Sentinel, a local publication dedicated to informing, inspiring, and elevating the Cedar Valley community through honest and accurate journalism. With a passion for fostering connections, Kieffer has made it his mission to highlight local businesses, provide reliable news, and support community development.
Beyond his editorial role, Kieffer is the owner of Lake Mountain Media, LLC, a company specializing in media and communications, and the co-owner of Quail Run Farms, which focuses on sustainable farming and community engagement. He also actively contributes to the local economy and culture as a member of the Eagle Mountain Chamber of Commerce.
Kieffer’s dedication extends to preserving and promoting the history and heritage of the Cedar Valley area. He often participates in community-centered events and media, including podcasts that explore the unique aspects of life in the region. Through his varied endeavors, he remains a steadfast advocate for the growth and enrichment of the local community.