Below is the text of an email I sent today to the Chair, Executive Director and Director of Communications for the Metropolitan Sports Facility Authority regarding the proposed use of special glass that will greatly reduce the incidence of birds striking this glass-heavy, spectacular new stadium located along a key North American bird migration path, the Mississippi flyway. More information on this topic, and contact information for key decision-makers, is available here:
- Birdchick blog (Sharon Stiteler): One step closer to fixing the Vikings stadium
- MinnPost article: Minneapolis City Council calls for bird-safe Vikings Stadium
- Star Tribune columnist Jim Williams: New Vikings stadium -- bird-killing zone (and other recent posts)
- National Audubon Society: New Minnesota Vikings Stadium Threatens Minnesota's Birds
- Official Audubon petition: Change Glass, Save Birds
My email:
With great concern, as a birder, nature blogger, Minnesota Master Naturalist volunteer, conservationist and long-time Minnesota resident, I most strongly urge you to act to protect birds from the foreseeable effects of such a large glass structure located so close to the Mississippi flyway.
As a strategic communications professional (at Neuger Communications Group, where I am a vice president and senior communications counselor), I also urge you to take this step. It will be truly a shame if this beautiful, world-class, publicly supported facility is forever tainted in the minds of many game and event attendees, and many more who will not be in a position to attend, as a bird-killer.
The pledge to adjust lighting when possible during key migration periods is important, and to be applauded. The choice also to use bird-friendlier glass is one that can still be made, and now is the time to make it -- for good public relations, and because it is the right thing to do for the survival of the beings with whom we share this continent.
Please, please, find the funds and make this happen.
(Note: This post was amended August 7 to add the link to the Audubon petition to the Vikings.)
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SAT.SEPT. 27, 1pm PROTEST FOR BIRDS AT VIKINGS STADIUM
East Downtown Light Rail Train Stop, Minneapolis
The Metropolitan Sports Facilities Commisson & Zygi Wilf are still refusing to put in the bird-safe glass in the new Vikings stadium. People are gathering to make their voices heard.
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