For greater distance and accuracy, Hallam uses a special shell fired from a 12-gauge shotgun that sounds much like a large firecracker. He also uses air cannons. Eradication is a last resort. Keeping the birds guessing is key to my success, said Hallum. Situated near large rice fields and a small river, Osan's flightline is a prime location for potential bird strikes.
Drainage ditches on either side of the runway and standing water add to the threat.
In turn this provides support for a substantial resident bird population. In addition to the scare tactics, making the flightline less attractive to birds is as simple as mowing the grass. Air Force regulations note grass near a flightline should be between seven and 14 inches in height, according to Hallam. Osan keeps its grass at 11 inches. All aspects of the program are part of an on-going process, according to Maj.