Wind power offers a clean alternative to coal-derived energy. Like other green energy sources, implementation is complicated. Perhaps the brewing controversy in Goodhue County in Minnesota shows one unexpected consequence.
The proposed 50-turbine wind farm raises concerns about the impact on the local bald eagle population, including two rare golden eagles that use the bluff country for habitat. A 2005 survey by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources found that bald eagles nests increased by 28 percent since 2000. Goodhue County, located on the Mississippi River in southeastern Minnesota, saw a decrease during this period. Similar environmental concerns with bats have been raised in other areas.
The controversy over the wind farm shows two conflicting ideas regarding environmentalism. A state law requires that green energy projects like AWA Goodhue Wind move forward to meet the state goal of 25 percent wind power by 2020. However, at the same time, an environmental review is not required by state law prior to issuing a permit. The dispute between the opponents of the project and the state’s decision to let the project proceed will likely end up in court.
Local residents against the wind farm have the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service on their side. The bluffs provide nesting habitat for bald eagles. It is unclear if a design plan by the company addresses these concerns. The conflict pits environmentalists who advocate development of green energy against those that question its impact on wildlife. With so much uncertainty, one wonders if both agendas are possible.
What the ongoing fight also brings to light is that wind power solutions must be developed on a case-by-case basis. It isn’t always a perfect answer to meeting energy needs. The potential effect on the bald eagle population in this case is undoubtedly heating up the dispute because of its role as the national symbol of the country.
If wind power is to succeed as a form of green energy, the concerns of the local residents must be part of the solution. The conflict is Goodhue County is not unique. Rather, it is a scenario likely to play out in other arenas as the push for clean energy continues.
