Hi Joe.. thanks for your comments.

I have researched the issues of both birds and wildlife in relation to airports and I do understand that it is complicated, each species responds differently to the various methods. Even at Pearson, they use a combintion of dogs/falcons and bangers & streamers.

The Island Airport's limitations are many, a bird sanctuary located yards from the runway being particularly alarming.. for those birds! Did I understand that the width of the runways at the Island may not allow a handler of either falcons or dogs to safely operate? I guess only the results of the study will show that for sure.

Six years ago, when I first contacted the TPA about improving their response to clearing runways/airspace of birds, I was told that the costs involved were prohibitive for either a handler for dogs or the use of falcons. I guess the bottom line has improved for the TPA!

I am optimistic that the TPA has finally undertaken a study that could potentially reduce the use of pyrotechnics, but the implementation of this study was not "responsive", six years was not responsive. But in the spirit of meaningful and constuctive input I look forward to the results of the study.

In the interim, I walk my pyro terified dog in a part of the waterfront at Ashbridges Bay that is peaceful, without the sounds of aircraft, pyro and the smell of aviation fuel. I'm lucky I can drive away some of my neighbours can't.

Claire