Originally published November 29 2005
Vermont considers wind power proposal in national forest
by Mike Adams, the Health Ranger, NaturalNews Editor
Mollie Matteson, deputy director of Forest Watch, talks about the pros and cons of wind power in Vermont, advising caution as studies to determine the environmental effects of wind turbines have yet to be completed.
Vermont's natural beauty, tranquil forests, diverse wildlife, and public land --- belonging to all citizens --- are among our state's most precious treasures.
As Vermonters consider whether and how to develop the wind energy potential of the state's rugged ridges, we must insist on deliberate, thoughtful consideration of all the values at stake, and adherence to a fair, democratic and scientifically informed process.
Our affection for our home, and our obligations to future generations, require this of us.
Recently, Deerfield Wind LLC applied for a special use permit to construct a large wind energy facility on two ridges on the Green Mountain National Forest in Searsburg and Readsboro.
Other developers are rushing to obtain approvals to erect similar large wind energy facilities in Sutton, Sheffield, Londonderry, Manchester and other Vermont towns.
The desire for speed is understandable, for time is money, but sometimes developers have inexcusably failed to consult their prospective neighbors.
Newspapers reported recently that Sutton residents and town officials were shocked to first learn of plans to install wind turbines in their town when the developer, UPC Vermont Wind, sent formal notice of its intentions to seek approval from the Vermont Public Service Board.
Public authorities must insist that the application and approval process for wind projects proceed at a pace that ensures development of Vermont's ridgelines happens in the right locations, at the right scale, and with all the right mitigations, if it is to happen at all.
First, the state should craft a long-overdue energy policy geared to minimizing carbon emissions and other pollutants and to maximizing energy conservation.
Second, a comprehensive, statewide assessment of wind energy potential and suitability needs to be completed before a single, large-scale project is approved.
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