March 27, 2011
Letters, Vermont

Lowell wind project short-term thinking

Burlington Free Press, www.burlingtonfreepress.com 27 March 2011

We are at a time in human and Earth history that provides pivotal complex challenges for Vermont. Economic, social, political, and environmental issues cause complexity in decision making in regard to our Earth resources. Diversification, renewability and conservation drive a turning point in our path that has relied on foreign energy, fossil fuels and nuclear energy. These sources have in the past dictated a future that degrades the environment. Renewable, clean energy reduces our carbon footprint. A decentralized, regional and locally driven energy plan provides a new structure. A regional system held together by grassroots efforts and planning at the local community level makes sense; however a regional energy plan must not be implemented piecemeal or in haste.

The ill-planned Kingdom Community Wind Project is such an example. It seems the fate of Lowell Mountain may have already been decided by a select group that implements our public energy policy. The Northeast Kingdom holds a vision of Vermont that is cherished by its people. We want to safeguard and preserve our natural heritage.

The beauty of our Vermont lakes, streams, and habitat sustain this heritage of long-range mountain views. The short-range thinking of the Lowell Mountain Wind Project will destroy the footprint of this beautiful place irrevocably. A mountain should not be so easily destroyed.

A comprehensive energy plan takes time and vigilance to develop. It encompasses with integrity a scientific, ecological, aesthetic and sensible regional energy plan. It is our responsibility to future generations that follow in our footprints to see that the task is accomplished with vision. A vision that does not destroy our mountain tops. Desolation of a mountain and the destruction of a majestic natural area violate our Vermont sensibilities. It is not a plan.

VICTORIA HUDOCK
Shelburne

URL to article:  https://www.wind-watch.org/news/2011/03/27/lowell-wind-project-short-term-thinking/