FLIGHT HAZARD

Plan lays out rules for safety markings on smaller towers

THE AGENCY Idaho Department of Transportation

THE ISSUE Towers more than 200 feet high must bear markings to help pilots see them. Many towers are shorter but still present a risk.

WHAT’S PROPOSED Any guyed tower exceeding 50 feet in height in an unincorporated area that is primarily undeveloped or used for agricultural purposes would be required to bear safety markings to alert pilots. Idaho Aviation Association officials say one of the main concerns is meteorological towers associated with wind farms. The Department of Transportation is establishing rules under House Bill 511, which the Legislature passed this year. The law deals with potential air hazards. A tower would have to be painted with orange-and-white bands and have a flashing light at the top. The wires must have marker balls. The proposed regulations exclude military towers.

TO LEARN MORE Go to page 200 of the Sept. 5 Idaho Administrative Bulletin. To comment, contact Linda L. Emry, Office of Governmental Affairs, Idaho Transportation Department, P.O. Box 7129, Boise ID 83707-1129