On June 12 the township voted to adopt a resolution to put a meteorological wind turbine on the Shepard farm, 12089 Phelps Road, Sparta Township.

The turbine will test the wind on the ridge for about a year, according to Bonnie Robinson, Sparta Township Clerk. If the wind and environment proves to be an ideal system, the township is looking to put together a proposal that will allow anyone to have a wind turbine, "even if you want to put the roof of your house," Robinson said.

Iberdrola Renewables, the leading worldwide wind energy company, is working with farmers and the Sparta Township government to put up the turbines.

"We have proven expertise in getting projects on-line, on-time and on-budget by working successfully with landowners, permitting agencies, communities, local governments, environmental agencies, customers and financial institutions," states Iberdrola's Web site.

Robinson said it will be a few months until the turbine can be constructed, as there are requirements that must be worked out--dimensions like height and area surrounding the turbine.

"There's a whole lot of hoops and things you have to jump through," said Robinson.

Other townships are considering similar resolutions. A meeting for the consideration of Wind Energy by Alpine Township, including speakers from Iberdorla Wind and the MSU Department of Agriculture will be at the Alpine Township Center, 5255 Alpine Ave., from 7 to 9:30 p.m. Tuesday, June 24 .