Upstate NY Power Corp.'s plan to build 77 turbines on the mainly undeveloped island will have a major environmental impact on the immediate area. But the wind towers, transmission line and infrastructure will affect the region as well.

Some 250 workers will use temporary structures during the project's construction. This will be a major undertaking. The island in Lake Ontario is in the town of Hounsfield, the main beneficiary of the project, but the underwater transmission line will make landfall in the town of Henderson.

The town of Hounsfield Planning Board also sought to be lead agency, and was supported by the state Department of Transportation, Department of Health and Office of General Services.

But the DEC is most qualified to conduct the state environmental quality review. DEC Commissioner Alexander B. "Pete" Grannis noted that "DEC will have jurisdiction ... for all work under the water, including docking slip construction. Likely impacts to the numerous and extensive wetlands on the island, from construction of the various components of the project including turbine sites, water and wastewater systems, housing, and all roadways, would require approvals from DEC."

This sets an important precedent for other wind power projects being considered in the region and state. The DEC is most qualified to conduct such reviews. It has the expertise and financial resources to take an independent look at the local, regional and statewide implications of such ventures.

The decision also transfers the financial burden for the review from local government to the state. The decision eliminates the inherent conflict of interest which would force a local government to choose between substantial payments in lieu of taxes or an environmental impact analysis which best protects the interests of the immediate region and Jefferson County. State oversight is the best option.