Subject: Re: High Voltage
Date: Mar 11 00:45:59 1998
From: Jack Bowling - jbowling at direct.ca


** Reply to note from Jerry Converse

> The windmill question brings to mind another question. What effect does
> high voltage lines have on birds nesting UNDER them.

The only fact I can relate is that around the central interior of B.C.,
Clay-colored Sparrows prefer to nest under high-tension powerlines. Perhaps
they like the "buzz"...

> I was checking a small marsh that runs under high voltage power lines. I
> was using a aluminum ski pole for a walking stick. While under the line,
> I could feel a tingling-vibration when I touched the aluminum while it
> was touching the ground. If I lifted it up the tingling stopped. If I
> walked out from under the lines it stopped. Years ago there were claims
> that over-exposure to high voltage could cause lukemia (I think) in
> humans. What about birds. Hmmmm Looks like a good candidate for a
> federal grant. ;-)

At least two studies have been published re. the potential ill effects of
high-tension powerlines the past couple of years - one said they are bad;
the other said there was no evidence to confirm any ill effects. Take your pick.

- Jack



Jack Bowling
RR1-S14-C41
Prince George, BC
Canada
V2N 2H8

phone: (250) 963-7837
fax: (250) 963-7801
jbowling at direct.ca