Wind power Compass contradicts other data
Morning Sentinel, www.onlinesentinel.com 1 May 2011
Alison Hagerstrom’s Maine Compass (April 18) on the subject of wind power left me wondering from what sources she gleaned her information, as it seems to differ substantially from that which others have discovered through in-depth investigation of the issue of industrial wind development.
Hagerstrom states than an increasing number of Mainers support industrial wind development, when there is actually no verification that this is true. The use of polls, the results of which are often determined by manipulation the phraseology of the questions, should be viewed with suspicion, at the very least.
She also implies that the development of industrial wind facilities does not negatively affect the tourism industry in the areas where they are located. This claim contradicts information from other regions, defies common sense, and does not reflect the concerns of many who are involved in Maine’s tourism industry.
The Maine Sporting Camp Owners Association and Maine Registered Guides Association, along with a number of innkeepers, restaurant owners, campground owners and other business that rely on tourism for their survival have come out steadfastly in opposition to industrial wind development on our mountaintops, ridge lines and hills.
Perhaps Hagerstrom should attend more to the needs of those whom she represents in her official capacity and less to the empty promises and unsubstantiated claims of the developers and proponents of an industry that has consistently exaggerated its benefits while trying to dismiss the negative effects of its presence.
Unfortunately, space restrictions do not allow me to address other questionable statements found in her column. I hope that she will try to gain more insight into the deficiencies of industrial wind facilities, will analyze the benefits versus the costs of these developments more thoroughly, and will reconsider her position on this subject.
David Small
Norridgewock
URL to article: https://www.wind-watch.org/news/2011/05/01/wind-power-compass-contradicts-other-data/