The Arizona Game and Fish Department has issued new guidelines aimed at helping energy developers protect the state's wildlife.
The department says wind turbines threaten birds and bats who fly near the blades, and solar facilities could block or reroute surface water flows.
The guidelines include assessing biological resources, conducting site screenings, and identifying and mitigating impacts to wildlife.
The department says the destruction or loss of habitat is the leading cause of species extinction.
Josh Avey of Game and Fish says the department supports the development of renewable energy but wants to make sure that developers consider wildlife early in the planning phase.
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Online: Arizona Game and Fish Department, www.azgfd.gov/hgis/guidelines.aspx
