The first hurdle has been cleared to bring the nation's largest wind farm to eastern Iowa. Iowa Winds, LLC wants to build nearly 200 wind towers to generate electricity in southern Franklin County.

As KWWL first reported last month, hundreds of landowners agreed to allow their land to be used for wind turbines. The Franklin County Board of Adjustment okayed 350 fields to be used for wind towers. Iowa Winds wants to put 150 to 200 towers up. County officials say that would mean $2 million a year in taxes, 40 new jobs, and a boost in tourism. Now, the company must apply for building permits with the Franklin County Planning and Zoning Office.