Opinions
Gold rush of wind won't pan out
Industrialized wind is the current "gold rush" for big energy, and like every gold rush, we'll be left with ghost towns, broken promises and tainted landscapes. Why would we rape our vistas, kill migrating birds, disrupt wildlife habitat, create visual and noise pollution, and destroy our children's heritage without investigating other options? Why are we ignoring conservation? The answer is simple: follow the money.
December 7, 2005
by Sherry Byron Calkins, Hartland
in The Times-Argus (VT)
n addition to the "golden rule," we had a second important rule in our family. We were taught that there are always two sides to every issue. Indeed, being able to weigh the pros and cons of a situation, to analyze information, and to come to an informed opinion is what makes a democracy work.
The debate about industrial wind is becoming louder. It's wonderful that well-intentioned people are discussing the issue so broadly. Each of us has a stake in the outcome of this discussion because it will impact wildlife, recreation, quality of life, and the "spiritual beauty" that is Vermont.
We are visitors on this planet for just a short time, and how we treat our environment has a huge impact on future generations. Vermont is not ours to ruin, and last I knew, it wasn't for sale to big energy developers who will reap tons of tax credits, subsidies, and green credits (all thanks to our tax dollars)!
Clear-cutting the mountain tops and installing huge turbines that will light up the night sky isn't the answer to our electrical energy needs.
There are lots of other "green" options (such as hydro, solar, small wind, wood chips and corn) that are more efficient and already exist.
Industrialized wind is the current "gold rush" for big energy, and like every gold rush, we'll be left with ghost towns, broken promises and tainted landscapes. Why would we rape our vistas, kill migrating birds, disrupt wildlife habitat, create visual and noise pollution, and destroy our children's heritage without investigating other options? Why are we ignoring conservation? The answer is simple: follow the money.
It's a perilous time for the future of our state. The core values of fairness, common sense, and environmental integrity, which have historically been synonymous with Vermont, are being eroded right before our eyes. Perhaps they are for sale to the highest bidder.
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