Feds to Wind Farmer: Go Ahead, Kill Eagles

A wind power development in Oregon should be allowed to kill a few golden eagles as long as it contributes to conservation efforts, the federal government says. Authorities have recommended granting a first-of-its-kind "take" permit to the wind farm, giving it permission to kill up to three golden eagles over five years with its turbines, MSNBC reports.

Changes made to the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act introduced the permits for activities that are lawful but may kill eagles. The wind company was the first to apply for one. Conservation groups say they don't have a problem with the granting of a permit in this case, but they worry that the government may start granting many more such permits. (More golden eagles stories.)