FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Media Contact: Rick Harris - 703-535-7433 or harrisr@pcia.com

PCIA Files Comments with the
FCC on Avian Mortality NOI
Association emphasizes the need for factual, scientific data in the debate

November 12, 2003, Alexandria, VA --- PCIA, The Wireless Infrastructure Association announced today that it filed detailed comments with the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) on the Commission’s NOI into whether communications towers pose a risk to migratory birds.

PCIA reaffirmed its belief that communications towers do not play a significant role in migratory bird deaths and applauded the Commission for suggesting that additional scientific research is needed.

“Given a lack of reliable, scientific data available on this issue, PCIA believes that it is premature for the FCC to consider changes to the current regulatory scheme applicable to communications towers,” said Jay Kitchen, PCIA President & CEO. “Our members support the belief that decisions should be based on quantifiable scientific research.“

PCIA hired Woodlot Alternatives, Inc., a Maine-based private environmental research firm, to provide an assessment on existing scientific studies and incidental reports on avian mortality at communications towers. PCIA compared Woodlot’s findings with its own Avian Mortality Member Survey. To emphasize the need for reliable and rock-solid scientific data, PCIA found that:

• There has been very little past scientifically sound and valid research to examine tower types and corresponding impacts on avian mortality. For example, environmental groups have long contended that guy wires contribute significantly to avian mortality without providing any scientific research to back up the claim.

• PCIA members that have been doing business between five and 22 years, emphatically contend that they had not experienced any significant bird kills at their towers and if they did experience any kills, they were generally single isolated incidents.

• The much talked about State of Michigan Avian Collision Study needs closer review because it will be conducted over a two-and-a-half year period and at 20 tower sites throughout the state of Michigan. While PCIA applauds the study for using a scientific platform, experts warn that the study may not be statistically valid and caution that the findings might not transfer geographically.

“It all comes down to performing good, solid research that is statistically sound and free from anecdotal influence,” said Kitchen. “PCIA believes government-funded avian mortality research is necessary and would provide the Commission with its best opportunity to make its decision based on accurate, fair and reliable data. Industry almost never makes decisions based on anecdotal information and we don’t believe that government should either.”

Kitchen adds that PCIA’s government relations staff will continue to work with the FCC to resolve this important issue to comply with airspace and human safety concerns. He emphasized that PCIA and the FCC share dual goals in minimizing avian mortality while simultaneously ensuring airspace safety for the traveling public. PCIA respects the delicate balance when considering environmental and public safety concerns with the timely deployment of infrastructure to satisfy consumer demand.

About PCIA
PCIA is an association of companies that seek the advancement of the wireless communications industry through advocacy, technical and marketplace initiatives. PCIA supports programs and policies that expand the growth of the wireless network infrastructure and deployment industry. PCIA’s goal is to create a better financial and business environment in which its members can grow and succeed. For more information, please go to www.pcia.com.

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Media Contact: Rick Harris, harrisr@pcia.com