SPP 12-143 Paradise Helicopters - Laserfiche WebLink

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Paradise Helicopters Special Permit Application be likely to nest in the area and none were observed, they may overfly the site on their way to colonies on the mountains. Noise from the rotor wash of a helicopter can distract birds and induce them to leave an area, which can interrupt life -cycle activities and modify behavior. However, birds tend ^� to avoid the disturbance and then return to normal after the helicopter leaves. If disturbance is frequent, birds will come somewhat habituated to frequent noise (Whittaker and Knight 1998). In general, because the noise will be intermittent and will last only about 5 minutes during takeoff and landing, the effects will be very limited. Another potential impact associated with helicopters is bird collisions, which can injure or kill birds and even harm aircraft. The U.S. Army has maintained a long record of AM helicopter operations in Hawaii and has only recorded one documented helicopter strike of a bird since 2002 (U.S. Army 2011). Given the general lack of native birds in the area and the relatively infrequent planned landing schedule, impacts to native birds from helicopters are unlikely. The landings will tape place in the day and interactions with Hawaiian hoary bats, which would be very likely to avoid the helicopter anyway, would not occur. An archaeological study was not conducted. However, due to the development of the subdivision with streets and the single - family residence on the site, significant surface archaeological sites are not anticipated to be located on the Special Permit area or the balance of the subj ect property. S HPD has been asked to issue a "no- effect" letter. Cultural resources: According to the owner who resides on the subject property, no valued cultural, historical or natural resources exist on the subject property and no gathering is taking place. To the extent to which traditional and customary native Hawaiian rights are exercised, the proposed action, will not affect traditional Hawaiian rights, therefore no action is necessary to protect those rights. 9