Preliminary Assessment and Recommendations Regarding Potential Bird Hazards 

to Aviation from the Proposed North Shore Marine Transfer Station, Queens, New 

York.

Submitted by: Russell P. DeFusco, PhD, USAF (ret)

 Vice President

BASH Incorporated

5010 Lanagan Street

Colorado Springs, CO 80919

(719) 264-8420

BirdmanRuss@aol.com

Date: May 14, 2010
Preliminary Assessment and Recommendations Regarding Potential 

Bird Hazards to Aviation from the Proposed North Shore Marine 

Transfer Station, Queens, New York.

I. Background:

I have reviewed numerous documents related to the Proposed North Shore Marine 

Transfer Station at College Point, Queens, New York. These include the Final 

Engineering Report for the proposed facility, the Supplemental Report to the NY State 

Department of Environmental Conservation regarding the station, and the engineering 

diagrams of the structure. Additionally, I have reviewed some of the independent 

evaluations of the facility including that prepared by Dr. Steven Garber and others. I also 

conducted a preliminary literature review including current FAA Advisory Circulars that 

address the subject and the recent FAA nation-wide study of Trash Transfer Stations as 

potential attractants to bird species hazardous to aircraft operations. I also visited the site 

and surrounding areas in May 2010. The comments provided herein are primarily 

directed to the public comment request regarding the report entitled “Evaluation of the 

north shore marine transfer station and its compatibility with respect to bird strikes and 

safe air operations at LaGuardia Airport (draft)” prepared by the US Department of 

Transportation Federal Aviation Administration and US Department of Agriculture 

Animal and Plant Inspection Service Wildlife Services in a Report for the Associate 

Administrator for Airports Office of Airport Safety and Standards Airport Safety and 

Certification Division Washington, DC, dated April 2010 (draft FAA/USDA report). 

II. Initial Finding:

Based on numerous factors including a brief on-site survey on May 10, 2010, the location 

of the proposed transfer facility approximately 2000 feet on centerline from LaGuardia 

Airport Runway 31, the FAA Advisory Circulars regarding incompatible land uses on or

near airports, the FAA nation-wide study of trash transfer facilities, input from other 

qualified airport wildlife biologists, and the local environment, I recommend this facility 

not be constructed or operated at the proposed location. It is my opinion that the facility 

will at least on occasion attract birds that would pose an unacceptable hazard to safe 

flying operations at the nearby LaGuardia Airport. Although mitigation measures could 

potentially limit these hazards, I do not believe such hazards can be completely 

eliminated. Additionally, I do not believe facilities should be constructed and then 

mitigated, when the hazards can be avoided altogether by not creating the hazard in the 

first place. Should political, economic, or other considerations determine that the facility 

will be constructed despite these recommendations, then it is imperative that all the 

mitigation measures outlined in the draft FAA/USDA report on the facility be adapted 

with some additional safeguards as outlined below. Of particular note, there is no 

mention of independent monitoring or enforcement of compliance by the regulatory 

agency to ensure mitigation measures are maintained in perpetuity for the life of the 

facility. A brief justification of reasoning behind these recommendations and summary 

of the pertinent documents and regulatory requirements are provided below.
III. Review of Relevant Documentation and Recommendations:

1. FAA Advisory Circular Requirements: FAA Advisory Circular 150/5200-33B 

“Hazardous Wildlife On or Near Airports” states that fully enclosed waste 

handling facilities are considered incompatible with safe airport operations if they 

are located on airport property or within the Runway Protection Zone (RPZ). In 

any case, such facilities should be evaluated through a Wildlife Hazard 

Assessment (WHA) if they are located within 5 statute miles of an airport and 

cause birds to enter operational airspace and are generally considered 

incompatible within the standard separation criteria of 10,000 feet from active 

surfaces or cause birds to enter the approach, departure, or circling airspace for 

airports serving jet aircraft if certain criteria are not met. The proposed facility 

lies nearly on centerline with LaGuardia Airport Runway 31, possibly within the 

RPZ (the draft FAA/USDA report states otherwise, but Garber disagreed), and 

well within the standard separation distances and thus should be considered 

incompatible by these criteria. The draft FAA/USDA study was a truncated 

version of a standard WHA and may not have fully captured the seasonal 

variation on potential bird hazards necessary to characterize the potential risk nor 

all aspects of the proposed operation with regards to potential attractants. Dr. 

Steve Garber’s analysis covers these considerations in much greater detail and 

need not be fully reiterated here, but I substantively agree with his findings.

2. Cumulative Effects: The proposed trash transfer operation also cannot be treated

as an entirely separate entity, as the cumulative and/or synergistic effects of other 

land uses and natural features in the surrounding area contribute to the overall risk 

of bird strikes and the potential attractiveness of the facility. The adjacent 

maintenance facilities where trash hauling vehicles are maintained exhibited 

several factors that can attract hazardous birds near the proposed facility. Open 

bays where birds such as Rock Pigeons and European Starlings were nesting and 

roosting were noted in a May site visit. Gulls were observed perched on the 

roofs. Open compartments on the vehicles themselves allowed birds access to 

residual, exposed trash. The nearby inactive Flushing Meadows Airport provides 

a wildlife sanctuary near the facility that will attract a variety of birds that will

interact with the trash transfer operation. Other industrial buildings in the area 

provide roosting and nesting sites near the facility. The natural habitat on and 

around the waterfront and marine traffic north of the facility attracts gulls and 

other potentially hazardous species near the facility and airport. Each of these 

contribute to a background level of activity that will necessarily interact and 

perhaps be enhanced by the trash transfer facility and must be more fully 

evaluated, yet were not adequately addressed in the draft FAA/USDA report.

3. FAA Trash Transfer Facility Study: The FAA report entitled “Evaluation of 

trash-transfer facilities as bird attractants” DOT/FAA/AR-09/62 (Washburn 2010) 

compiled information from numerous trash transfer facilities from regions across 

the US and found that all facilities regardless of design (open, three-sided open, 
three-sided with bay doors, semi-enclosed, and fully enclosed facilities) attracted 

some birds considered hazardous to aircraft. The report concluded that use of 

trash transfer stations, particularly by bird species potentially hazardous to 

aircraft, can be significant. It recommends that all such facilities located near 

airports be individually evaluated due to differences in building design, season, 

geographic location, and on-site management practices. Variability between 

facilities was considerable even in the same regions and therefore comparisons 

with other local facilities, such as on Staten Island or in Harlem, may not be valid. 

As attractiveness to birds cannot be fully evaluated unless and until the North 

Shore facility is constructed and operating, it is best not to risk flight safety by 

building at this location and then dealing with potential consequences after the 

fact. 

4. Draft FAA/USDA Study of the North Shore Trash Transfer Facility Site: 

The draft FAA/USDA report was very well prepared in many areas and I agree 

with all the mitigation recommendations as stated, but there were a few

shortcomings I believe must be addressed. 

a. Overall Assessment: I agree with virtually all the findings and 

recommendations of the study with the exception of the conclusion that 

the site could be compatible with safe flight operations with mitigating 

measures in place. The very fact that significant mitigating measures must 

be employed for the group to reach this conclusion is an admission that the 

facility will in fact attract hazardous species to the site. It is best not to 

risk the attraction in the first place and seek a more suitable alternate site 

for the facility than to build it and then have to deal with the consequences 

for the life of the facility. Should the facility be constructed over the 

legitimate concerns for flight safety, then it is absolutely imperative that 

all the mitigation measures described and implied be fully employed with 

some additional considerations as listed below.

 

b. Building Design: The original design drawings I reviewed showed the 

facility as fully enclosed including the gantry/crane for transferring 

containers under a roof to the marine barges. A later design modification, 

as shown in the report, depicts the crane/gantry as not covered and could 

provide perching and nesting sites for birds on the exposed structures. 

The removal of the roof from the design is likely due to obstruction 

clearance requirements and could compromise the ability to deter birds 

from this portion of the structure. Anti-perching devices may not be able 

to be installed in some areas (eg. safety rails, etc) as maintenance crews 

would need to access these areas. Design and materials for these exposed 

structures must account for potential attractiveness to hazardous bird 

species. Other aspects of the building design are detailed in the report and 

I concur with their findings. 
c. Container Design: It is not entirely clear from the report that the 

containers will be designed in a manner to completely exclude birds from 

accessing trash that may be exposed if the lids are not tightly sealed. Also 

not clear is whether fluids can be fully contained to ensure no leakage 

occurs on site after trash is compacted for loading, though the report states 

that they will be leak-proof. It is not possible to fully contain odors 

emanating from containers once they leave the enclosed portion of the 

building. There is also no contingency plan noted for possible storage of 

containers on site should barges not run due to volume, maintenance, or 

weather delays. While it is acknowledged that the containers are to be 

cleaned prior to leaving the facility, there is no description of the cleaning 

process. Cleaning of incoming containers is not mentioned. Where will 

this occur? Off-site or on-site? Within the structure or outside? These 

questions must be addressed to ensure that birds are not attracted to the 

facility while containers are being prepared for use.

d. Odor control. It is mentioned in the report that negative air pressure in 

the building and odor elimination will be employed to limit odors escaping 

the facility. Of course, most of this is to reduce complaints from people at 

the facility and in surrounding areas, but odor control is also important to 

deter some birds from being attracted to the facility. Most birds have a 

very poorly developed sense of smell, with one notable exception; the 

Turkey Vulture. Turkey Vultures were not mentioned in the draft 

FAA/USDA report, perhaps because the surveys were conducted at a time 

of year when these birds are generally absent from the region and there are 

no records of strikes with these birds at LaGuardia Airport. However, 

vultures are commonly observed in the region, particularly in summer. As 

these birds find their food sources primarily by smell, they may be 

expected at the site if odors are present. Odor elimination by chemical or 

biological means is essential as outlined. Odor masking is completely 

ineffective against these birds. Negative air pressure to contain odors in 

the building is also valuable. Despite the negative air pressure, some 

odors will escape when access doors are opened. Also, there is no means 

of dealing with odors emanating from trash hauling trucks approaching the 

facility, nor on barges leaving the facility and these might attract 

hazardous birds to the area. 

e. Incoming Traffic: While it is acknowledged that it is a regulatory 

requirement that trash hauling vehicles be covered when transporting trash 

from the point of pick-up to deliver to the station, it is my experience that 

these vehicles frequently have exposed trash that is partially exposed at 

the containment seals or adhering to external structures such as tires, 

chassis, lifts, and others. Such exposed trash will attract birds to the 

vehicles and parking areas outside the building. Additionally, there is no 

contingency plan outlined should volume of traffic, vehicle maintenance 

problems, or other issues with the facility delay access to the building. No 
mitigation/contingency plans are mentioned to deal with hazardous birds 

that may be present during these times. 

f. Risk Assessment Model: The risk assessment model in Figure 3-9 of the 

draft FAA/USDA report is not correct. It is an adaptation of a standard 

Operational Risk Management (ORM) model that should show the 

frequency of occurrence of a hazard on one scale and the severity of the 

consequences of encountering that hazard on the opposing scale. As 

depicted in the report, the risk of Alternative 1 (no facility) and 

Alternative 2 (facility as proposed with no mitigation measures) are shown 

as equal, despite the fact that the text did not come to the same 

conclusions. In my opinion the risk level would rise from lowest to 

highest from Alternative 1 (no facility) to Alternative 3 (facility with 

mitigation) to Alternative 2 (facility as proposed). This model must be reaccomplished in the final report to reflect the appropriate use of ORM 

models.

g. Mitigation Measures: All the mitigation measures described in the draft 

report are appropriate and must be implemented should this facility be 

developed. The design features, anti-perching devices, no feeding policy, 

landscaping recommendations, monitoring of incoming and outgoing 

vehicles/barges/containers, development of an integrated wildlife hazard 

management program, and provision of a full-time dedicated wildlife 

control professional are all necessary elements of proper mitigation 

measures to reduce potential hazards to nearby aircraft. However, there 

are other provisions that are not detailed in the draft report. For example, 

it recommends monitoring bird activity attracted to barges and mitigating 

accordingly. Who will be monitoring this activity? What are the 

mitigation measures to adapt accordingly? Mitigation measures, such as 

the use of pyrotechnics and other standard harassment techniques are not 

detailed. Are there provisions to temporarily or permanently halt 

operations while mitigating techniques are applied should unacceptable 

flight safety risks be noted? These details must be specifically spelled out 

in the report and in the wildlife hazard management plan or there is no 

way to monitor and ensure compliance. 

h. Compliance. Last, and without doubt most important, is the issue of 

compliance and enforcement of requirements. There is no mention in the 

draft FAA/USDA report of compliance issues. Neither the FAA nor the 

USDA, or for that matter the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey 

nor LaGuardia Airport have the regulatory authority to ensure that any 

provisions in the recommendations contained in the report are adapted, 

monitored, or enforced. Only the regulatory agency has this authority. 

Should this facility be permitted despite objections to the contrary, it is 

imperative that the State Department of Environmental Conservation 

(DEC) make all provisions outlined in the draft FAA/USDA report, and 
those outlined above, conditions of the operating permit. Only in that 

manner can they be inspected, monitored, and enforced. Monitoring data 

can be obtained from PANYNJ personnel, remotely sensed dedicated bird 

radars, area wildlife biologists, or other entities. It is highly recommended 

that an independent entity be retained as part of the conditions of the 

operating permit to periodically monitor compliance with regard to 

wildlife hazards to aviation. That entity could be appointed by the FAA, 

the PANYNJ, the USDA, or the State DEC and mutually agreed upon by 

the proponent. Alternately, a private consultant who is an FAA Qualified 

Airport Wildlife Biologist as per FAA AC 150/5200-36 could be retained 

as the independent monitor. This independent entity would report findings 

to the operator of the facility for correction of any shortcomings but also 

to the DEC whereby notices of violation (NOVs) could be determined, 

fines could be levied, temporary suspension of the operating permit could 

be considered, or if severe hazards were noted, a revocation of the 

operating permit imposed. Without these provisions, there is no 

mechanism to ensure hazards to aviation are monitored and mitigation 

measures implemented for the life of the facility in the event of changes in 

management, ownership, economic pressures, or other factors. 

IV. Conclusion: 

After reviewing the location and circumstances of the proposed North Shore Marine 

Transfer Station and its proximity to the LaGuardia Airport with respect to bird hazards 

to flight operations, I cannot support the construction of this facility as proposed. In my 

opinion, the potential increased risks are unacceptable. The facility should not be 

developed and then mitigated when the risk can be avoided altogether. However, it is 

acknowledged that there are possible overriding factors that may lead to the development 

of this facility. If that is the case, then it is imperative that all the recommended 

mitigation measures detailed in the draft FAA/USDA report plus those outlined in this 

report be addressed and adapted. Most importantly, the DEC must include these 

mitigation measures as conditions of the operating permit with assurance of monitoring 

and enforcement of compliance. 

BACKGROUND AND QUALIFICATIONS OF AUTHOR:

See Attached Bio Sheet and Resume/CV
Updated: 17 April 2010

RUSSELL P. DEFUSCO

Vice President, BASH Incorporated 

5010 Lanagan Street, Colorado Springs CO 80919 

(719) 264-8420 BirdmanRuss@aol.com

Dr. Russell P. DeFusco, Lt Col, USAF (retired) is Vice President of 

BASH Incorporated. He and his wife Donna own and operate the 

company and specialize in minimizing Bird Aircraft Strike Hazards 

(BASH) to civil and military aviation. BASH Inc also provides 

consulting services in wildlife management and environmental sciences. 

He is a senior member of the Steering Committee for the Bird Strike 

Committee USA/Canada. Dr. DeFusco is former Chief of the USAF 

Bird Aircraft Strike Hazard (BASH) Team. Dr. DeFusco has been the 

principle investigator on the United States Bird Avoidance Model 

(BAM) and has been involved in development of bird detection and 

forecasting systems using Geographic Information Systems, satellite 

imagery, radars, and other technologies. He has worked with US and 

Canadian civil and military agencies to develop the Strategic Plan for the 

North American Bird Strike Advisory System. Dr. DeFusco has 

developed numerous operational BASH Plans for USAF, Air National 

Guard, and Air Force Reserve units, as well as other federal agencies including the Army, Navy, Marine 

Corps, NASA, and foreign governments. He has also worked with the FAA in developing wildlife hazard 

assessments and management plans for active and proposed new airports. He provides bird and other 

wildlife management plans for private agencies requiring mitigation or control efforts. He has provided 

expert testimony in land use and development cases regarding potential wildlife conflicts to aviation and 

other interests. BASH Inc provides consulting services to overseas agencies and those in North America. 

Dr. DeFusco was born in Elizabeth, NJ and after several moves, his family settled in Fountain Valley, CA 

where he graduated from high school in 1977. He is a 1981 graduate of the United States Air Force 

Academy with a Bachelor’s Degree in Biology. He earned a Master’s of Science Degree in Wildlife 

Biology from Colorado State University in 1983 and a PhD in Environmental, Population, and Organismic 

Biology from the University of Colorado, Boulder in 1994. He is a Distinguished Graduate from the USAF 

Squadron Officer’s School at Maxwell Air Force Base, and Air Command and Staff College by seminar. 

Dr. DeFusco was commissioned through the USAF Academy in 1981. He was awarded an Air Force 

Institute of Technology scholarship to Colorado State University for his Master’s Degree. He returned to 

the Air Force Academy where he was an instructor in the Department of Athletics and taught Physical 

Education courses, coached the Varsity Cross Country Team, and was Director of the Stone Human 

Performance Laboratory. He attended Pilot Training at Reese Air Force Base, TX. He then became the 

Ecologist on the USAF Bird Aircraft Strike Hazard Team at Tyndall AFB, FL. He was promoted to Chief 

of the USAF BASH Team on the Air Staff at Bolling AFB, DC. He became an Instructor, then Assistant 

Professor of Biology at the USAF Academy, then went on for an Air Force sponsored doctoral program at 

the University of Colorado. Dr. DeFusco returned to the USAF Academy as an Associate Professor of 

Biology. He retired as a Lieutenant Colonel after 20 years of service and opened BASH Inc in 2001.
RUSSELL P. DEFUSCO, Ph.D., Lt Col USAF (ret.)

BASH Incorporated

5010 Lanagan Street

Colorado Springs CO 80919

(719) 264-8420

BirdmanRuss@aol.com

EDUCATION:

 BS in Biology, United States Air Force Academy

MS in Wildlife Biology, Colorado State University

PhD in Environmental, Population and Organismic Biology, University of Colorado

EXPERIENCE:

Current Vice President and Consultant, BASH Incorporated. Providing environmental 

consulting services, specializing in bird hazards, wildlife management, and 

environmental assessments for civil and government clients worldwide. Industry 

Representative on the Steering Committee, Bird Strike Committee USA/Canada. 

Qualified FAA Airport Wildlife Biologist. Providing expert testimony at local, county, 

state, and federal levels regarding Bird Aircraft Strike Hazards (BASH) and community 

planning issues. On national response team for potential Avian Influenza issues. 

Developed and teaches course for FAA Qualified Airport Wildlife Biologists and airport 

operators. Develops environmental and operational management plans and consulting 

services in regulatory and compliance issues regarding BASH, environmental health and 

safety, conservation of resources, de-conflicting human and wildlife issues, compatible 

land use planning, construction activities, mishap investigations, bird avoidance 

modeling, ecological modeling, and mitigation planning. 

1998-2001 Deputy for Academic Development and Associate Professor of Biology, Department 

of Biology, USAF Academy. Taught a wide variety of courses such as Principles of 

Ecology, Vertebrate Zoology, and Senior Seminar in Biology. Served as the Director of 

Biological Research and Academic Development. National Collegiate Athletic 

Association representative for Air Force Rifle Team. Directed the $2 million USAF Bird 

Avoidance Model project. Won the Air Force Research and Development Award.

1994-1998 Deputy for Research and Assistant Professor of Biology, Department of Biology, 

USAF Academy. Taught courses such as Introduction to Biology, Applied Ecology, 

and Ethology. Supervised four directorates and several cadet programs. Officer in 

Charge of Cadet SCUBA club. Performed as adjunct to USAF Bird Aircraft Strike 

Hazard (BASH) Team for worldwide programs and research. 

1991-1994 Air Force Institute of Technology Doctoral Program, University of Colorado, 

Boulder CO. Research and dissertation centered on modeling bird hazards to aircraft 

that provided the prototype United States Bird Avoidance Model (BAM).

1989-1991 Instructor of Biology, Department of Biology, USAF Academy. Taught courses such 

as General Biology, Independent Study in Biology, and Field Ecology. Provided 

technical support for USAF BASH Team. Served as Academic Advisor-in-Charge for 28 

faculty members and 1,000 cadets.
1986-1989 Chief, Bird Aircraft Strike Hazard Team, HQ USAF/LEEV Environmental 

Division, Directorate of Engineering and Services, Bolling AFB, Washington D.C.

Led BASH Team officers and provided expert assistance to organizations in every aspect 

of reducing bird hazards and improving flight safety. Reviewed engineering designs of 

aircraft components to better withstand strikes. Controlled birds on airfields and 

surrounding areas through sound land management practices, and managed dispersal of 

problem birds. Designed flight operations and modeled bird populations to minimize 

exposure to hazardous birds while in flight. Served on Air Force Mishap Investigation 

Boards involving bird strike incidents that resulted in major damage, loss of aircraft, and 

loss of life. Expert BASH consultant to foreign governments throughout North and South 

America, Europe, Asia, and Australia. Wrote and reviewed Environmental Assessments 

and Environmental Impact Statements for construction projects and land uses, especially 

as related to DOD and public transportation safety.

1984-1986 Bird Aircraft Strike Hazard Team Ecologist, AF Engineering and Services Center, 

Tyndall AFB FL. Provided onsite assistance as a recognized expert in BASH to nearly 

every operating U. S. Air Force Base in the world, in addition to numerous Army, Navy, 

Marine, NASA, FAA, and foreign installations. Evaluated land uses such as sanitary 

landfills, agriculture, sewage ponds, parks, and industrial areas for compatibility with 

nearby aircraft operations. Provided management strategies and expert testimony for 

potential landfill conflicts with flight safety. Wrote the model BASH Plan for the USAF 

used at all Air Force bases worldwide as a standard for managing, documenting, and 

implementing BASH programs. Wrote and evaluated National Environmental Policy Act 

documents. 

1984 Undergraduate Pilot Training, 64th Student Squadron, Reese AFB TX. Trained for 

flying in the T-37 and T-38 jet aircraft. Experienced my first bird strike on my first solo 

T-37 flight.

1983-1984 Director, Human Performance Laboratory, Physical Education Instructor, and 

Varsity Cross Country Coach, Department of Athletics, USAF Academy. Taught a 

variety of physical education courses in the Athletic Department. Coached the Varsity 

Cross Country team. Managed the athletic rehabilitation program and performed as 

Director of the Stone Human Performance Laboratory. Conducted research in various 

physiological performance and body composition studies.

1981-1983 Air Force Institute of Technology Masters' Program, Colorado State University, 

Fort Collins, CO. Research and thesis concentrated on characterizing frightening 

devices for airfield bird control to reduce bird hazards to aircraft.

RESEARCH:

BAM Primary research interests since 1985 have been the development of a Bird Avoidance 

Models (BAM) for reducing bird hazards to aircraft operating in off-airfield areas. 

(Please see www.usahas.com for the most current BAM product). Principal investigator 

and developer of the model for several years including management of over $2 million in 

research funds. The model takes bird distribution and abundance data for many years and 

from numerous sources, to project four daily periods and bi-weekly hazard ratings for 

every square kilometer of the continental Unites States, Alaska, Hawaii, and Puerto Rico. 

This risk surface is presented in an Internet-based Geographic Information System format 

and can be overlaid on any of hundreds of environmental and human land uses data sets. 

Flight crews can choose the safest times and locations with this information. Partnered 

with the Dutch civil and military authorities to develop Netherlands BAM. Working to 

expand system globally.
NEXRAD Other research projects include the investigation of radars (specifically NEXRAD) for 

detecting airborne birds and determining hazard probabilities. This involved $1.5 million 

in Air Force sponsored funding. Basic research led to currently operating web-based 

Avian Hazard Advisory System (AHAS).

Wildlife Completed extensive research and practical application of bird dispersal techniques. 

Conducted numerous studies on global bird population and distribution patterns. 

Researched and published studies on mammal, reptile, amphibian, and fish distributions. 

Published research on disease organisms present as normal flora in captive iguanas. 

Published several articles on hunting and wildlife management techniques. 

Medical Conducted medical research on exercise and hypothermia induced pulmonary edema in 

elite athletes. Researched and developed medical standards for human body composition. 

REFERENCES: Furnished upon request.

See Curriculum Vitae for further details and publication list.

 
CURRICULUM VITAE

RUSSELL P. DEFUSCO, Ph.D.

LIEUTENANT COLONEL, USAF (ret.)

ADDRESS

BASH Incorporated

5010 Lanagan Street

Colorado Springs CO 80919

Phone and FAX: (719) 264-8420

E-Mail: BirdmanRuss@aol.com

SUMMARY OF MILITARY CAREER

Commissioning Source: USAF Academy 1981

Military Assignments:

 1981-1983 Air Force Institute of Technology Master’s Program, Colorado State University,

Fort Collins CO

 1983-1984 Director, Human Performance Laboratory, Physical Education Instructor, and

Varsity Cross Country Coach, Department of Athletics, USAF Academy CO

 1984 Undergraduate Pilot Training , 64th Student Squadron, Reese AFB TX

 1985-1986 Bird Aircraft Strike Hazard Team Ecologist, AF Engineering and Services

Center, Tyndall AFB FL

 1986-1989 Chief, Bird Aircraft Strike Hazard Team, HQ USAF/LEEV Environmental

Division, Directorate of Engineering and Services, Bolling AFB DC

 1989-1991 Instructor of Biology, Department of Biology, USAF Academy CO

 1991-1994 Air Force Institute of Technology Doctoral Program, University of Colorado,

Boulder CO

 1994-1998 Deputy for Research and Assistant Professor of Biology, Department of

Biology, USAF Academy CO

 1998- 2001 Deputy for Academic Development and Associate Professor of Biology, 

Department of Biology, USAF Academy CO

Professional Military Education:

 1987 Squadron Officer School in residence (Distinguished Graduate)

 1996 Air Command and Staff College
FORMAL EDUCATION

1981 BS Biology USAF Academy

1983 MS Wildlife Biology Colorado State University 

1994 PhD Environmental, Population, and Organismic Biology University of Colorado 

ACADEMIC EXPERIENCE

Academic Rank: Associate Professor of Biology, USAF Academy

Biology Courses Taught:

Introduction to Biology

Vertebrate Zoology

 Principles of Ecology

Applied Ecology

Independent Study in Biology

Ethology 

Senior Seminar in Biology

Zoology

Physical Education Courses Taught:

Physical Fitness Methods

SCUBA I

SCUBA II

Pistol

Basic Swimming

Swimming

Water Survival

Weight Training 

Volleyball

ORGANIZATIONAL LEADERSHIP

Coach, USAF Academy NCAA Varsity Cross Country Team

 Officer-in-Charge, Cadet SCUBA Club

Assistant Officer-in-Charge, Cadet Mountaineering Club

Assistant Officer-in-Charge, Cadet Hunting Club

Officer Representative, NCAA Cadet Rifle Team

Bird Control Committee of International Bird Strike Committee

Military Operations Committee of International Bird Strike Committee

PROFESSIONAL AFFILIATIONS

Bird Strike Committee USA/Canada 

Bird Strike Committee Europe

International Bird Strike Committee 

American Society for Photogrammetry and Remote Sensing

National Association of Underwater Instructors

Military Fish and Wildlife Association

Southern Colorado Biological Council

Beta Beta Beta Biological Honor Society

Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation 

FAA Qualified Airport Wildlife Biologist
STAFF ASSISTANCE VISITS AND REPORTS TO UNITED STATES MILITARY 

INSTALLATIONS

1984-2001

Andrews Air Force Base, MD

Avon Park Air Force Range, FL

Bangor Air National Guard Base, ME

Barksdale Air Force Base, LA

Beale Air Force Base, CA

Bergstrom Air Force Base, TX

Charleston Air Force Base, SC

Chennault Field, LA

Clovis Air Force Base, NM

Columbus Air Force Base, MS

Dare County Air Force/Navy Range, NC

Davis-Monthan Air Force Base, AZ

Dyess Air Force Base, TX

Edwards Air Force Base, CA

Eglin Air Force Base, FL

Eielson Air Force Base, AK

Ellsworth Air Force Base, SD

Elmendorf Air Force Base, AK

England Air Force Base, LA

Fairchild Air Force Base, WA

George Air Force Base, CA

Hickam Air Force Base, HI

Hill Air Force Base, UT

Homestead Air Force Base, FL 

Keesler Air Force Base, MS

Kelly Air Force Base, TX

Kirtland Air Force Base, NM

King Salmon Air National Guard Base, AK 

La Junta Air Force Range Complex, CO

Langley Air Force Base, VA

Laughlin Air Force Base, TX

Little Rock Air Force Base, AR

Loring Air Force Base, ME

Luke Air Force Base, AZ

MacDill Air Force Base, FL

March Air Force Base, CA

Marine Corps Air Station, Camp Pendleton, CA

Marine Corps Air Station, Cherry Point, NC

McChord Air Force Base, WA

Minot Air Force Base, ND

Moody Air Force Base and Air Force Range, GA

NASA Complex and Shuttle Launch Facility, Merritt Island, FL

Naval Air Station Barber’s Point, HI

Naval Air Station, Corpus Christi, TX

Naval Air Station Key West, FL

Nellis Air Force Base, NV

Norton Air Force Base, CA

Offut Air Force Base, NE

Patrick Air Force Base, FL

Peterson Air Force Base, CO

Pope Air Force Base, NC

Randolph Air Force Base, TX
Reese Air Force Base, TX

Reno Air National Guard Base, NV

Scott Air Force Base, IL

Seymore-Johnson Air Force Base, NC

Shaw Air Force Base, SC

Shemya Air Force Base, AK

Sheppard Air Force Base, TX

Travis Air Force Base, CA

Tyndall Air Force Base, FL

United States Air Force Academy, CO

Vandenberg Air Force Base, CA

Westover Air Force Base, MA

Wheeler Air Force Base, HI

Whiteman Air Force Base, MO

Williams Air Force Base, AZ

Wright-Patterson AFB, OH 

STAFF ASSISTANCE VISITS AND REPORTS TO UNITED STATES TERRITORIES, FOREIGN 

ALLIES’ AIR FORCE INSTALLATIONS, FOREIGN CIVIL AND MILITARY AGENCIES

1984-2001

Anderson Air Force Base, Guam 

Australian Civil Aviation Authority, Canberra, Australia

Aviano Air Base, Italy

Bangladesh Air Force Staff

Bardenas Range, Spain

Bitburg Air Base, Germany

Cold Bay Air Force Station, Canada

Clark Air Base, Philippines

Decimomannu Air Base and NATO Range, Italy

Hahn Air Base, Germany

Howard Air Force Base, Panama

Incirlik Air Base, Turkey

Indian Air Force and Staff, India

Israeli Air Force Bases, Staff, and Civil Aviation, Tel Aviv, Israel 

Kadena Air Base, Okinawa

Konya Range, Turkey

Kunsan Air Base, South Korea 

Maniago Range, Italy

Misawa Air Base, Japan

Naval Air Station, Keflavik, Iceland

Osan Air Base, South Korea

Ramstein Air Base, Germany

Rein Main Air Base, Germany

Royal Air Force Alconbury, United Kingdom

Royal Air Force Bentwaters, United Kingdom

Royal Air Force Lakenheath, United Kingdom

Royal Air Force Mildenhall, United Kingdom

Royal Air Force Upper Heyford, United Kingdom

Royal Australian Air Force Base, Townsville, Australia

Royal Dutch Air Force, Netherlands

Singapore Air Force Staff

Spagdahlem Air Base, Germany

Suriname Embassy, South America

Suwon Air Base, South Korea

Teagu Air Base, South Korea
Torrejon Air Base, Spain 

Turkish Air Force Bases and Command Staff, Ankara, Turkey

Yokota Air Base, Japan

Zaragosa Air Base, Spain

Zweibrucken Air Base, Germany

OPERATIONAL BASH ASSESSMENTS AND BASH PLAN DEVELOPMENT 

1986

United States Air Force Model BASH Plan

2001

California Air National Guard, Fresno Yosemite International Airport, Fresno

2002

Colorado Air National Guard, Buckley Air Force Base, Denver

Delaware Air National Guard, New Castle County Airport, New Castle 

Kentucky Air National Guard, Louisville International Airport, Louisville

Massachusetts Air National Guard, Otis Air National Guard Base, MA

New York Air National Guard Stratton ANG Base, Schenectady County Airport, Scotia

Oklahoma Air National Guard, Will Rogers World Airport, Oklahoma City

Ohio Air National Guard, Mansfield-Lahm Regional Airport, Mansfield

Ohio Air National Guard, Springfield Municipal Airport, Springfield

Rhode Island Air National Guard, Quonset State Airport, North Kingstown

Texas Air National Guard, Ellington Field, Houston

United States Air Force Academy, CO, Colorado Springs

2003

Alaska Air National Guard, Kulis ANGB, Anchorage International Airport, Anchorage

Georgia Air National Guard, Savannah-Hilton Head International Airport, Savannah

Hawaii Air National Guard, Kalealoa Airport – John Rogers Field, Kalealoa

Michigan Air National Guard, Selfridge Air National Guard Base, MI

2004

Illinois Air National Guard, Peoria International Airport, Peoria

Indiana Air National Guard, Terre Haute International Airport – Hulman Field, Terre Haute

New York Air National Guard, Stewart International Airport, Newburgh

Maine Air National Guard, Bangor International Airport, Bangor

Michigan Air National Guard, W.K. Kellogg Airport, Battle Creek

Mississippi Air National Guard, Jackson International Airport (Allen C. Thompson Field), Jackson

Missouri Air National Guard, Saint Louis International Airport, Saint Louis

Missouri Air National Guard/Cannon Range, Fort Leonard Wood

Montana Air National Guard, Great Falls International Airport, Great Falls

North Dakota Air National Guard, Hector International Airport, Fargo 

Pennsylvania Air National Guard, Harrisburg International Airport, Harrisburg

Utah Air National Guard, Salt Lake City International Airport, Salt Lake City

Wisconsin Air National Guard, Dane County Regional Airport – Truax Field, Madison

2005

Arizona Air National Guard, Tucson International Airport, Tucson

Connecticut Air National Guard, Bradley International Airport, Hartford 

Idaho Air National Guard, Boise Air Terminal (Gowen Field), Boise

Indiana Air National Guard, Fort Wayne International Airport, Fort Wayne

Massachusetts Air National Guard, Barnes Municipal Airport, Westfield

New Hampshire Air National Guard, Pease International Tradeport, Newington

New Jersey Air National Guard, Atlantic City International Airport, Egg Harbor
New York Air National Guard, Francis S. Gabreski Airport, Westhampton Beach

North Carolina Air National Guard, Stanly County Airport, Badin

Ohio Air National Guard, Rickenbacker International Airport, Columbus

Pennsylvania Air National Guard, Pittsburgh International Airport, Pittsburgh

South Carolina Air National Guard, McEntire Air National Guard Station, Columbia

Tennessee Air National Guard, McGhee Tyson Airport, Knoxville

West Virginia Air National Guard, Eastern West Virginia Regional Airport, Martinsburg

Wisconsin Air National Guard, Volk Field Combat Readiness Training Center, Camp Douglas

Wyoming Air National Guard, Cheyenne Regional Airport, Cheyenne

2006

Alabama Air National Guard, Birmingham International Airport, Birmingham

Alabama Air National Guard, Montgomery Regional Airport, Dannelly Field, Montgomery

California Air National Guard, Moffett Federal Airfield, Mountain View

Georgia Air National Guard/78 Air Base Wing, Robins AFB, Warner-Robins

Illinois Air National Guard/375 Airlift Wing, Scott Airlift Wing, Scott AFB, Saint Louis 

Iowa Air National Guard, Sioux Gateway Airport, Colonel Bud Day Field, Sioux City

Maryland Air National Guard, Martin State Airport, Baltimore

Minnesota Air National Guard/Air Force Reserve, Minneapolis/St. Paul International Airport, Minneapolis

Minnesota Air National Guard, Camp Ripley Army Airfield and Ranges, Camp Ripley

Nebraska Air National Guard, Lincoln Municipal Airport, Lincoln

New Mexico Air National Guard/58 Special Ops Wing, Kirtland AFB, Albuquerque International Sunport 

New York Air National Guard, Hancock International Airport, Syracuse

New York Air National Guard, Wheeler-Sack Army Airfield and Ranges, Fort Drum

Ohio Air National Guard, Toledo Express Airport, Swanton

Oregon Air National Guard, Klamath Falls Airport, Kingsley Field, Klamath Falls

Puerto Rico Air National Guard, Muniz ANGB, Luiz Munoz Marin International Airport, San Juan

Tennessee Air National Guard, Nashville International Airport, Nashville

Texas Air National Guard/37th Training Wing, Lackland AFB/Kelly Field, San Antonio

Vermont Air National Guard, Burlington International Airport, Burlington

Washington District of Columbia Air National Guard, Andrews Air Force Base, MD

Wisconsin Air National Guard, General Mitchell International Airport, Milwaukee

2007

Arizona Air National Guard/City of Phoenix, Sky Harbor International Airport, Phoenix

California Air National Guard, Channel Islands Air Guard Station, Naval Base Ventura County, Pt Mugu

Colorado Air National Guard/Peterson Air Force Base/Colorado Springs Airport, Colorado Springs

Florida Air National Guard, Jacksonville International Airport, Jacksonville

Illinois Air National Guard, Abraham Lincoln Capital Airport, Springfield

Kansas Air National Guard, Forbes Field, Topeka

Louisiana Air National Guard/Naval Air Station Joint Reserve Base, New Orleans

Minnesota Air National Guard, Duluth International Airport, Duluth

Mississippi Air National Guard, Gulfport Combat Readiness Training Center, Gulfport-Biloxi Intl Airport

Mississippi Air National Guard, Camp Shelby Bombing Range and Assault Strip, Gulfport

Nevada Air National Guard/ Reno-Tahoe Airport Authority, Reno-Taho International Airport, Reno

North Dakota Air National Guard, Hector International Airport, Fargo

Texas Air National Guard/Naval Air Station Joint Reserve Base (Carswell Field), Fort Worth

West Virginia Air National Guard, Yeager Airport, Charleston

2008

Arkansas Air National Guard, Fort Smith Regional Airport, Fort Smith

Arkansas Air National Guard/19 Airlift Wing, Little Rock Air Force Base, Jacksonville

California Air National Guard, Fresno Yosemite International Airport, Fresno

Delaware Air National Guard, New Castle County Airport, New Castle 

Iowa Air National Guard, Des Moines International Airport, Des Moines
Michigan Air National Guard, Alpena Combat Readiness Training Center, Alpena County Regional 

Airport

Michigan Air National Guard, Grayling Air Gunnery Range, Alpena

Michigan Air National Guard, Selfridge Air National Guard Base, MI

Mississippi Air National Guard, Meridian Regional Airport (Key Field), Meridian

Missouri Air National Guard, Rosecrans Memorial Airport, Saint Joseph

New Jersey Air National Guard/ McGuire Air Force Base/Lakehurst Naval Air Engineering Station 

Oklahoma Air National Guard, Tulsa International Airport, Tulsa

Oregon Air National Guard, Portland International Airport, Portland

Pennsylvania Air National Guard/Naval Air Station Joint Reserve Base, Willow Grove

South Carolina Air National Guard, McEntire Air National Guard Station, Columbia

South Dakota Air National Guard, Sioux Falls Regional Airport (Joe Foss Field), Sioux Falls

Tennessee Air National Guard, Memphis International Airport, Memphis

2009

California Air National Guard, March Air Reserve Base/Southern California Logistics Airport, Victorville 

Georgia Air National Guard, Savannah-Hilton Head International Airport, Savannah

Georgia Air National Guard/Townsend Range, Townsend

Indiana Air National Guard, Atterbury Range, Camp Atterbury Joint Maneuver Training Center, Edinburgh

Indiana Air National Guard, Fort Wayne International Airport, Fort Wayne

Indiana Air National Guard, Jefferson Range, Jefferson Proving Grounds, Madison

Kansas Air National Guard, Smoky Hill Air National Guard Range, Salina

Kentucky Air National Guard, Louisville International Airport, Louisville

Kentucky Air National Guard, Godman Army Airfield, Fort Knox

Maine Air National Guard, Bangor International Airport, Bangor

Minnesota Air National Guard/Air Force Reserve, Minneapolis/St. Paul International Airport, Minneapolis

Minnesota Air National Guard, Miller Army Airfield, Camp Ripley

Mississippi Air National Guard, Jackson-Evers International Airport, Jackson

Montana Air National Guard, Great Falls International Airport, Great Falls

Nebraska Air National Guard, Lincoln Municipal Airport, Lincoln

New York Air National Guard Stratton ANG Base, Schenectady County Airport, Scotia

Ohio Air National Guard, Springfield-Beckley Municipal Airport, Springfield

Pennsylvania Air National Guard, Harrisburg International Airport, Harrisburg

Pennsylvania Air National Guard/Fort Indiantown Gap/Bollen Range, Lebanon

Utah Air National Guard, Salt Lake City International Airport, Salt Lake City

2010

Arizona Air National Guard, Tucson International Airport, Tucson

Idaho Air National Guard, Boise Air Terminal (Gowen Field), Boise

New York Air National Guard, Stewart International Airport, Newburgh

North Carolina Air National Guard, Charlotte-Douglas International Airport, Charlotte 

Pennsylvania Air National Guard/Air Reserve Station, Pittsburgh International Airport, Pittsburgh
WILDLIFE HAZARD ASSESSMENTS AND WILDLIFE MANAGEMENT PLANS

Pottstown Municipal Landfill, Waste Management of Pennsylvania, Pottstown

Outer Loop Landfill and Recycling Center, Waste Management of Kentucky, Louisville

Alliance Landfill and Recycling Center, Waste Management of Pennsylvania, Taylor

Proposed Waller County Airport, Waller, Texas

Houston Southwest Airport, Houston, Texas

Proposed Conway Municipal Airport, Conway, Arkansas

Stillwater Community Development, Cedar Grove, Illinois

Hendricks County Airport, Indianapolis Airport Authority, Danville, Indiana

Proposed Akutan Airport, Akun/Akutan, Alaska

Southwest Florida International Airport, Fort Myers, Florida

Kinross Gold Corporation Bird/Wildlife Management Plan, Miracunga Mine, Chile

Thermal 551 Community Development/Jaqueline Cochran Regional Airport, Thermal, California

Oasis Date Gardens Community Development/Jaqueline Cochran Regional Airport, Thermal, California

Mojave-Rosamond Sanitary Landfill/Mojave Air and Space Port, Kern County, California

Six Points Road Developers, LLC/Indy Park Ride & Fly, Indianapolis, Indiana

St. Petersburg-Clearwater International Airport, Saint Petersburg, Florida (in progress)

EarthMark NJ Kane Wetland Mitigation Bank/Port Authority of NY & NJ, South Hackensack, NJ

John Murtha-Johnstown Cambria County Airport, Johnstown, Pennsylvania (in progress) 

Independence Municipal Airport, Independence, Kansas (Preliminary Assessment)

Yeager Airport, Charleston, West Virginia (in progress)

Arcata Airport, Arcata/Eureka, California (in progress)

Navy Restoration Project/Hangar 1, NASA Ames Research Center, Moffett Federal Airfield, CA

El Paso International Airport, Texas (in progress)

Show Low Regional Airport, Arizona (in progress)

Proposed North Shore Trash Transfer Station near LaGuardia Airport, Queens, New York (preliminary)

AIRPORT WILDLIFE HAZARD MANAGEMENT WORKSHOP – Course Development and 

Instructor.

Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University (Center for Professional Education), Daytona Beach FL – Oct 2006

Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University (Center for Professional Education), Charlotte NC – May 2007

Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University (Center for Professional Education), Seattle WA – Oct 2007

Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University (Center for Professional Education), Dallas TX – Mar 2008

Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University (Center for Professional Education), Denver CO – Jul 2008

Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University (Center for Professional Education), Dallas TX – May 2009

Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University (Center for Professional Education), Orlando FL – January 2010

NATIONAL ENVIRONMENTAL POLICY ACT DOCUMENT REVIEW AND COMMENT

Cape Wind Project Environmental Impact Statement, Nantucket, MA

Navy Outlying Landing Field Environmental Impact Statement review for Congressman Walter Jones, NC 
SELECTED PUBLICATIONS

DeFusco, R. 2009. Hunting opportunities on military lands. Western Hunter 8 (2):33.

DeFusco, R.P. 2009. Life and death wildlife management: BASH 101. Western Hunter 8 (1):28-33.

DeFusco, R.P. 2009. Op Ed. Embry Riddle Aeronautical University Aviation Wildlife Mitigation

 Newsletter. 3 (1):3, 6.

DeFusco, R. 2008. How close is too close? Eastmans’ Hunting Journal 21 (110):14-19.

Shamoun-Baranes, J., W. Bouten, L. Buurma, R. DeFusco, A. Dekker, H. Sierdsema, F. Sluiter, J. van 

 Belle, H. van Gasteren, and E. van Loon. 2008. Avian information systems: Developing web-based Bird 

 Avoidance Models. Journal of Ecology and Society 13 (2):38.

DeFusco, R. 2008. Foul weather bucks. Eastmans’ Hunting Journal 21 (105):52-55.

DeFusco, R.P., K.M. Mieczkowski, and C.J. Quillen. 2007. A successful case study: the bird 

 control program of Waste Management Outer Loop Recycling and Disposal Facility, Louisville, 

Kentucky. 

 Proc. Bird Strike Committee USA/Canada 9. Kingston, Ontario. 

DeFusco, R. 2007. One year, two great hunts. Eastmans’ Hunting Journal Online Stories. 

 http://www.eastmans.com/onlinestory.php?requesteddate=70507.

DeFusco, R. 2006. Principles for pursuing pronghorns. Western Hunter 5 (3):12-19.

DeFusco, R. 2005. A whole lot of bull! Western Hunter 4 (3):20-23.

DeFusco, R.P., M.J. Hovan, J.T. Harper, and K.A. Heppard. 2005. North American Bird Strike Advisory 

 System: Strategic Plan. Proc. Bird Strike Committee Canada 5. Vancouver, British Columbia.

DeFusco, R.P., M.J. Hovan, J.T. Harper, and K.A. Heppard. 2005. North American Bird Strike Advisory

 System Strategic Plan. US Air Force Institute for Information Technology Applications. US Air Force

 Academy CO. 31pp.

DeFusco, R.P. and W. Ruhe. 2004. BAM comes to Alaska. Flying Safety Magazine 60(9):4-7.

DeFusco, R.P. 2003. Avoiding birds in the 21st century. Flying Safety Magazine 59(9):16.17.

Burnham, B.R., D.H. Atchley, R.P. DeFusco, J. Fowler, M.J. Darling and F.J. Angulo. 2002. The use of

 enrofloxacin to prevent shedding of Salmonella from green iguanas, Iguana iguana. Journal of Herpe 

 Med Surg 12(2):10-13.

DeFusco, R.P. and A.A. Sandrock. 2001. A Field Guide to Amphibians and Reptiles of the United

 States Air Force Academy.

Beermann, T, M. Bobo and R.P. DeFusco. 2001. Enhancements to the United States Bird Avoidance Model

 (US BAM). Proc. Bird Strike Committee USA/Canada 3. Calgary, Alberta Canada.

DeFusco, R.P. 2000. Current status of the USAF Bird Avoidance Model (BAM). Proc. International Bird

 Strike Committee Meetings 25 (WP-0S6):51-55. 

DeFusco, R.P. 1999. The United States bird avoidance model (BAM). Pp. 241-243 in: Y. Leshem, Y.

 Mandelik, J. Shamoun-Baranes (eds.). International Seminar on Birds and Flight Safety in the Middle 

 East. Tel Aviv, Israel. 
Burnham, B.R., D.H. Atchley, R.P. DeFusco, K.E. Ferris, J.C. Zicarelli, J.H. Lee and F.J. Angulo. 1998.

 Prevalence of fecal shedding of Salmonella organisms among captive green iguanas and potential public

 health implications. Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association 213(1):48-50.

DeFusco, R.P. 1998. A bird avoidance model for the US Air Force. USAFA Discovery 98-03:1-2. 

DeFusco, R.P. 1998. Introducing the new BAM. Flying Safety Magazine 54(3):4-5.

DeFusco, R.P. 1998. The U.S. Air Force bird avoidance model. Proc. Vertebrate Pest Conference 18:59-60.

 Costa Mesa CA.

DeFusco, R.P. 1998. USAF Academy bird avoidance program. Aviation, Space, and Environmental

 Medicine 69(9):928.

DeFusco, R.P. and R.A. Turner. 1998. Dodging feathered bullets. The Combat Edge 6(11):19-20.

Finch, H.J., J.S. Kent and R.P. DeFusco. 1997. Ponderosa pine - scrub oak forest. J. of Field Ornithology 

 67(4):

DeFusco, R.P. 1996. Using geographic information systems to model bird distributions and populations on

 a continental scale. Proc. International Bird Strike Committee Meetings 23 (WP52):463-501.

Finch, H.J, J.S. Kent, R.P. DeFusco and J.W.Weissmann. 1996. Ponderosa pine – scrub oak forest. J. of 

 Field Ornithology 67(4):59.

DeFusco, R.P., H.S. Finch, and J.W. Weissmann. 1995. Ponderosa pine – scrub oak forest. J. of Field 

 Ornithology 67(4):15. 

DeFusco, R.P. 1994. Environmental Factors Influencing Turkey Vulture Distribution and Abundance: A

 Geographic Information System Application Study. PhD Dissertation, University of Colorado, Boulder.

DeFusco, R.P. 1994. Environmental factors influencing Turkey Vulture distribution and abundance: a GIS 

 application study. Proc. North American Wildlife and Natural Resources Conference/National Military 

 Fish and Wildlife Association Meetings, Anchorage AK.

DeFusco, R.P., D. Chiszar and H.M. Smith. 1994. Geographical distribution. Lyochlorophus vernalis 

 blanchardi (Smooth Green Snake). Herpetological Review 25:77.

Chiszar, D., H.M. Smith and R.P. DeFusco. 1993. Crotalus viridis viridis (Prairie Rattlesnake) diet.

 Herpetological Review 24:106.

DeFusco, R.P. 1993. Modeling bird hazards to aircraft: a geographic information system application study.

 Photogrammetric Engineering and Remote Sensing 59(10):1481-1487. 

DeFusco, R.P., D. Chiszar and H.M. Smith. 1993. Geographical distribution. Sceloporus undulatus

 erythrocheilus (Red-lipped Plateau Lizard). Herpetological Review 24(4):155.

Coomber, P.K., J.S. Kent, R.P. DeFusco and J.W. Obringer. 1992. Ponderosa pine - scrub oak forest.

 Journal of Field Ornithology 63(1):73. 

DeFusco, R.P. 1992. Ponderosa pine - scrub oak forest. Journal of Field Ornithology 63(1):17.

Hammershock, D.M. and R.P. DeFusco. 1992. Ultrasonics as a method of bird control. Proc. Bird Strike

 Committee Europe Meetings 21: Working Paper #39.
Coomber, P.K. and R.P. DeFusco. 1991. Ponderosa pine - scrub oak forest. Journal of Field Ornithology 

 62(1):56-57.

DeFusco, R.P., R.L. Dogan and R.L. Merritt. 1989. Bird strikes to U.S. Air Force aircraft 1987. Proc.

 Conference on Aerospace Transparent Materials and Enclosures. Wright Research and Development

 Center WRDC-TR-89-4044:834-844.

DeFusco, R.P. 1988. United States Air Force bird strike summary (1986-1987). Proc. Bird Strike

 Committee Europe Meetings 19:385-397.

DeFusco, R.P. and J.F. Cassell. 1988. Birds of the United States Air Force Academy. Department of 

 Biology, USAF Academy, CO. 29pp.

DeFusco, R.P. and R.A. Turner. 1988. Dodging feathered bullets. Approach 33:50-52.

Ferraro, E.R. and R.P. DeFusco. 1987. The Bird Aircraft Strike Hazard (BASH) program. Proc. Eastern

 Wildlife Damage Control Conference 3:20-21.

DeFusco, R.P., R.P. Larkin and D.B. Quine. 1986. Bird hazard warning using Next Generation Weather

 Radar. Proc. Bird Strike Committee Europe Meetings 18:135-148.

DeFusco, R.P. and R.A. Turner. 1986. Dodging feathered bullets. Combat Crew 36:11-12.

DeFusco, R.P. and R.A. Turner. 1986. Dodging feathered bullets. Air Force Flying Safety Magazine 42:24-

 25.

DeFusco, R.P. and R.A. Turner. 1986. Dodging feathered bullets. TAC Attack. 26:26-27.

Thompson, M.M., R.P. DeFusco and T.J. Will. 1986. U.S. Air Force Bird Strikes 1983-1985. Proc. Bird

 Strike Committee Europe Meetings 18:149-159.

Thompson, M.M., R.P. DeFusco and T.J. Will. 1986. 1985 Bird Strike Report. The Air Force Safety

 Journal 4:2-6.

DeFusco, R.P. 1985. Feathered foes. TAC Attack 5:4-6.

DeFusco, R.P. and J.G. Nagy. 1983. Frightening Devices For Airfield Bird Control. U.S. Fish and Wildlife

 Service Project 904, Denver Wildlife Research Center. 78pp.

DeFusco, R.P. 1980. Birds of the United States Air Force Academy. Department of Biology, USAF

 Academy CO. 96pp. 

PUBLISHED ABSTRACTS

Roberts, C.L., A.L. Smith, S. Brammel, R.P. DeFusco, and G. Feher. (accepted). Applying GIS and relative 

 hazard scores to produce a meaningful wildlife hazard assessment. Proc. Bird Strike Committee 

 USA/Canada 12. Salt Lake City, UT.

DeFusco, R.P. 2009. Resurrecting the North American bird strike advisory system strategic plan. Proc. 

 Bird Strike Committee USA/Canada 11. Victoria, British Columbia. 

 

Smith, A., R.P. DeFusco, Pople, B., Willet, K, and Myers, A. 2009. Applying GIS and relative

 hazard scores to produce a meaningful wildlife hazard assessment. Proc. Bird Strike Committee 

 USA/Canada 11:6. Victoria, British Columbia. 
DeFusco, R.P., K.M. Mieczkowski, and C.J. Quillen. 2008. Comparison of non-lethal versus lethal

 control methods for red-tailed hawks and other bird species at the Waste Management Outer Loop 

 Recycling and Disposal Facility, Louisville, Kentucky, USA. Proc. Bird Strike Committee USA/Canada

 10:21. Orlando, FL. 

DeFusco, R.P. and R.L. Dogan. 2006. The airport is not a wildlife refuge! Proc. Bird Strike

 Committee USA/Canada 8:18. Saint Louis, MO. 

DeFusco, R.P. and R.L. Merritt. 2006. Remote sensing technology and ground-based

 observations for evaluating a proposed airport site in Conway, Arkansas. Proc. Bird Strike Committee

 USA/Canada 8:15. Saint Louis, MO. 

DeFusco, R.P, J.T. Harper, and W Ruhe. 2005. Alaska Bird Avoidance Model (AK BAM)

 development and implementation. Proc. International Bird Strike Committee 27/WP I-4:6. Athens, 

 Greece.

DeFusco, R.P., M.J. Hovan, J.T. Harper, and K.A. Heppard. 2005. Integrated North American bird

 avoidance system: research and development strategic plan. Proc. International Bird Strike Committee

 27/WP X-4:201. Athens, Greece.

DeFusco, R.P. 2004. United States Bird Avoidance Model (BAM) Development and Implementation.

 Proc. European Bird Avoidance Model/Bird Avoidance System Symposium. University of Amsterdam,

 Netherlands.

DeFusco, R.P. 2004. Toward an integrated North American Bird Avoidance System: Organizational and

 technology update. Proc. Bird Strike Committee USA/Canada 6:30. Baltimore MD.

DeFusco, R.P. and M. Alexander. 2003. Technology update: Bird Avoidance Model / Avian Hazard

 Advisory System. Proc. Bird Strike Committee USA/Canada 5. Toronto, Ontario.

Alexander, M., M. Bobo and R.P. DeFusco. 2002. Improving the United States Bird Avoidance

 Model (USBAM) predictive risk surface. Proc. Bird Strike Committee USA/Canada 4. Sacramento CA.

Bobo, M., T. Beermann, and R.P. DeFusco. United States Bird Avoidance Model (US BAM). Proc. ESRI 

 User Conference .

DeFusco, R.P. 2000. Current status of the USAF Bird Avoidance Model (BAM). Proc. Bird Strike 

 Committee USA/Canada 2:20-21. Minneapolis MN.

DeFusco, R.P. 1999. The United States Bird Avoidance Model (BAM). Proc. International Seminar on

 Birds and Flight Safety in the Middle East: 34. Tel Aviv, Israel.

DeFusco, R.P. 1998. United States Air Force bird avoidance model (BAM). Proc. International

 Ornithological Congress 22: Durban, South Africa. 

DeFusco, R.P. 1997. Using GIS to model bird hazards to military aircraft on a continental scale. Proc.

 American Congress on Surveying and Mapping/American Society for Photogrammetry and Remote 

 Sensing/Resource Technology Conference, Seattle WA.

DeFusco, R.P. 1996. Modeling bird hazards to aircraft on a continental scale. Proc. The Wildlife Society

 1996 Annual Conference, Cincinnati OH. 

DeFusco, R.P. 1996. Using geographic information systems to model bird distributions and populations on

 a continental scale. Proc. USAF Institute for National Security Studies Annual Research Results

 Conference 4:73, USAF Academy, Colorado Springs CO.
DeFusco, R.P. 1994. Environmental factors influencing Turkey Vulture distribution and abundance: a 

 geographic information system application study. North American Ornithological Conference, Missoula

 MT.