June 28, 2013
Washington

Washington Supreme Court hears wind farm case

Courtney Flatt | Oregon Public Broadcasting | opb.org

The Supreme Court of Washington Thursday heard arguments in a case about a controversial wind farm in the Columbia River Gorge. Then-Gov. Chris Gregoire approved the project more than a year ago. Environmentalists say it will harm wildlife, recreation, and scenic views.

Whistling Ridge Energy Project is set to be the Northwest’s first wind farm in a mountainous, forested area. Critics of the project say that’s why it’s important to make sure the facility is properly sited.

Friends of the Columbia Gorge, an environmental advocacy group, says the Washington Energy Facility Site Evaluation Council did not take the right steps to make sure migratory and endangered wildlife would be kept safe.

Gary Kahn argued the case for the Friends of the Columbia Gorge. He says the group wants more investigation into some parts of the wind farm application.

“Everyone involved in the siting process must do everything to assure all the applicable requirements are met,” Kahn said.

The siting council says it followed the law when reviewing the Whistling Ridge application.

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URL to article:  https://www.wind-watch.org/news/2013/06/28/washington-supreme-court-hears-wind-farm-case/