Not right for turbines
The wind turbine project for the mountains between Roxbury Pond and the Swift River in Roxbury is not suitable for the area. Environmental, health and quality of life impacts will be with area residents long after the wind turbines have been replaced with more reliable and efficient sources of power. People must always consider the environmental impact of any industry in the precious Maine woods and waters.
Blasting mountain tops, carving wide access roads, loading the earth with tons of concrete and the disturbance of the watershed for both the lake and the river in order to seat the 24-30 turbines on this range is alarming. Degradation of the quality of the water in either bodies has its impact on the way of life and the economic welfare of the area. The pristine waterways and forest beauty are what bring visitors’ dollars, which benefit the area as a whole.
The wind turbine industry is in an early stage of development and I thank these forward-thinking investors as their efforts will benefit us all. However, I also know that this is a business venture that will bring little paid work to the area while increasing the burden on the community’s often volunteer resources. Local tax benefits are also speculative and not assured.
Common sense tells us this is not the right place for the turbines.
Anne M. Morin, Roxbury
7 August 2008
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Tags: Wind power, Wind energy
