Goose refuge sees number soar

The scheme at Jack’s Lane Wind Farm in Norfolk, aimed to attract the local pink-footed geese away from the turbines and provide a safe new habitat to enjoy. The refuge fields with their favoured feeding crops are closer to the birds’ night nest, reducing their travel time and subsequent risks.

Such has been the success of the new goose refuge that so far an average of 7,187 birds have been drawn to the new area after the completion of the wind farm, compared to 1,420 prior to the refuge being established.

Andy Chinery, Asset Manager at Jack’s Lane Wind Farm said: “Sustainability is at the core of what we do, aiming to provide safe, clean energy across the world, while ensuring we protect the local environment and its wildlife. It’s for that reason we are so pleased with the results of the refuge so far.”

Pink-footed geese and their use of the area around the wind farm was a key topic of interest for local residents during the development of Jacks Lane. RES worked hard with their ornithology consultants to design a scheme that would not only allow for this but also to support the population well into the future.

Andy Chinery added: “Such is the success of the scheme that we’ll be looking to replicate this at other relatable sites across the country and share our experience with our industry and ornithology partners.”