KOOTENAI COUNTY, Idaho — Editor's note: The picture above is of a different osprey nest than the one being talked about in the story.
Crews working on a highway construction project in the city are keeping a close eye on a nearby osprey nest, Idaho Transportation Department officials said.
As construction has gotten closer to the longtime nest, sitting atop a pole near the Highway 200 construction, residents in the area have grown concerned that the work might endanger the osprey using the nest or force its removal.
However, ITD officials said measures are being taken to keep the birds safe.
In the short-term, precautionary measures are being taken to preserve the safety and well-being of the bird and its offspring, Heather McDaniel, ITD public information officer, said.
"Crews have fenced off a clear zone around the base of the pole where the nest is situated to prevent it being disturbed," McDaniel said.
In the long-term, ITD will work with a biologist to conduct a site review later this week of the osprey nest to determine what steps to take next, the public information officer said.
"This review will provide insight on the potential for project work to negatively impact the nest, and recommend any additional steps or modifications ITD can make in order how to preserve the animal's habitat," she said.
For the full story visit our news partners at the Bonner County Daily Bee.