Corps using big guns to get rid of big problem | News

The Army Corps of Engineers is pulling out the big guns to get rid of some big nuisances.

Hundreds of vultures have recently invaded the area around Bull Shoals Dam.

Fed up with their destructive ways, the Corps’ Mountain Home Project Office is using a propane-powered noisemaking cannon to move them out.

The cannon does not fire a projectile nor does it physically harm the vultures.  However, it does make a very loud “thunder clap.”

The cannon will be used between 7 a.m. and 6 p.m. weekdays.

According to the Corps of Engineers, vultures have been causing damage to soft, pliable materials found on the roofs of the dam, powerhouse and other nearby facilities.  They’ve also pecked cars and stripped off windshield wiper blades. 

If all that weren’t enough, vulture droppings are caustic and can damage metal and concrete.