Industrial Wind will do little or nothing to reduce carbon emissions or our reliance on conventional fuels. The wind cannot be trusted to blow on demand. While there is plenty of energy in the wind, unless you can store it until needed you get little net energy gain from erecting industrial size turbines. Nameplate megawatt sizes on turbines reflect their maximum instantaneous generating capacity they actually only generate about a third of the nameplate value and then only when the wind blows.  One megawatt of installed industrial wind will yield about a third of megawatt of electricity and only if you have a way store the electric and release it during demand conditions.  Without the capability to store the electricity you get even less net gain possibly even no net gain.
 

The big problem with industrial wind is the turbines are too large, too loud and placed too close to the homes of citizens by wind developers seeking to maximize their profits which come mostly from incentives paid out of our tax dollars. Peoples main objections to industrial wind could be eliminated by reasonable set backs or much more stringent siting and noise requirements.  The very idea that a 50 db sound limit should be acceptable to me when I currently enjoy a background sound level that is much lower, is a personal insult to myself and most other rural residents.  CBED was meant to address many of the siting problems.  It doesn’t because local ownership is not required and enforced.  Working with only a few local people who own large tracts of land wind developers are taking advantage all the other people that live in our community. A very large percentage of the people living in this area reside on small acre parcels and pay very high property taxes anything that adversely affects their property values will eventual affect the entire County.  We are not fighting wind energy development. We are fighting to protect our homes and our families.  We must have safe setbacks of at least the .6 mile recommended by many sources including the Minnesota Health Department.


Solar projects would be safer, quieter, and be a better match to needs.   While a 79 Megawatt wind energy project requires control and wind rights to ten thousand acres, a similar size solar energy project could be done on as little as ten to twenty acres.   The real opportunity for alternative energy for the future and broader based economic development is solar cell roofing materials which even people living in town could use to lower their net energy demand on the grid or even sell excess home owner generated electricity to the grid.   I see great hope for wind energy in the future, but done with smaller more durable and less intrusive technology. While larger turbines seem to offer greater performance efficiencies the turbines are also operating near the outside performance envelope of the materials used to construct them, this means that they will be less sustainable, require more maintenance, and pose greater risks of accidents to anyone living close to them.


Anyone armed with a sharp pencil and a list of facts about wind energy conversion can easily show it just does not make economic sense.   Why are so many wind developers trying to do projects in Goodhue County?  The answer is politics and energy policy. The United States government and the Minnesota government both have wisely realized that we must plan for a cleaner and more reliable energy future. Minnesota has placed goals on energy production requiring that utilities get 25 per cent of the electricity that they sell from renewable sources by the year 2025. They also placed an even higher requirement on any utility that operates a nuclear power plant (Xcel Energy Prairie Island) of getting 30 per cent of their electricity from alternative sources.  Faced with having to meet these goals to continue operating and not wanting to deal with thousands or tens of thousands of people hooking up small net metered generation systems all over the State; Utilities have chosen to promote utility scale wind generation or industrial wind. Even though it costs the utility more to for the wind generated electricity the government incentives will help them to make up the difference in cost or they will raise their rates or both.  Industrial Wind allows the utilities to maintain control of electricity production and control of electricity prices.

Rick Conrad, 25 Jan 2010

P.S.  If your primary mission as a Judge is to dispense justice, I do not see how you can allow Goodhue Wind AWA to move forward this year. If their project is truly justifiable, it will even more justifiable next year.


Solar is better than wind energy
Rick Conrad, Goodhue - 12/19/2009

To the Editor:

Wind energy NIMBYism. It really is a case of not in my back yard. The New Ulm, Minn., project is a prime example. There are many just as suitable locations closer to the city of New Ulm that could host their turbines. Why did they choose to build them out of sight in another county?

The 25 percent renewable energy by 2025 never specified that it be with industrial wind projects. Wind is not even the best choice to use. The wind energy available occurs mainly at night. Solar is a much better match to the needs for increased peak power. Peak power demands occur mainly in the summer during daylight hours, which is when the least amount of wind energy is available.

Minnesota CBED (community-based energy development) is a joke. The definition of local investment is any investor from Minnesota. All or at least most of the money for the projects in Goodhue will come from the Twin Cities. CBED in no way guarantees Goodhue residents any control over these “local” projects. A dozen or a couple dozen local people may benefit financially from the Goodhue Wind projects. Many hundreds will live within the .6 mile “hazard” zone. The real impact of these projects could extend several miles out from project boundaries.


Rick Conrad Goodhue


11/18/2009

Goodhue Wind Amended Site Application MPUC Docket Number IP670/WS-08-1233 October 19,2009 states the applicant (Goodhue Winds) had installed a temporary meteorological (MET) tower February 3,2009 and is collecting “favorable” wind resources from the preliminary data they have gathered but does not disclose this data in the permit. 

This 60 meter MET tower was constructed on parcel number 25.013.0302 in the A-1 Agricultural Protection District of Belle Creek Township after receiving a Conditional Use Permit from Goodhue County to collect  wind data for the original proposed development in Goodhue and Belle Creek Townships. 

The applicant has instead chosen to offer modeled wind data collected from the 70 meter DOC Met tower located in Clarks Grove Mn which is approximately 80 miles from the center of the modified wind project in Goodhue County.   The reliability of this data appears questionable in that Clarks Grove had available data from June 1996-July 2007 but the applicant was only able to use data from June 1996 to March 2002 due to a sensor “malfunction” at that met tower.

In section 2.2.6 of Extreme Wind Conditions and in section 2.3 Other Meteorological Conditions the applicant provides historical weather data of the project area opting to use the weather periods of January 1950 to June 2008. On July 10,2008 Goodhue County, including areas of the proposed wind farm and far reaching areas of south eastern Minnesota experienced “extreme” weather including an EF0 tornado (65-85 mph wind speeds) 3 miles east of Vasa, straight line winds estimated at speeds of 75 mph and greater which created large areas of damage to structures and landscapes.  Large hail was also experienced in this storm.  This information has been on record with the National Weather Service Weather Service Forecast Office (NOAA) since July 14, 2008. 

Why would the applicant fail to disclose such a significant weather occurrence in their application?

Mary Brickzin-gale


6/28/2009


This letter is in response to the article “Mistakes at Wisconsin wind farm haunt local wind projects”. I would like to take this time to introduce myself and give you a brief background of myself so you know who you are reading about. My name is Brian Loos and I live in Goodhue Township I have a Bachelor of Science Degree from Minnesota State University Mankato in Parks and Recreation with an emphasis in resource Management.  Some of the course that I participated in was, Wildlife as a rec resource, Wildlife Management, Wetlands Management, along with other Earth sciences and Biology classes. I am deeply offended that the columnist who wrote the article would suggest that we as a group of concerned citizens would base our concerns solely on one Industrial Wind Turbine project. I personally researched many Industrial Wind Turbine Projects around the country and around the world. Case in point, Blair County Pennsylvania (NBC News 6) , Cohocton NY (Atlanta NY- Evening Tribune), Janesville WI (Janesville Gazette), Penghu archipelago Taiwan (The Telegraph-UK), Huron County (News 5) watch the video at http://www.wnem.com/video/19798049, these are just a few of the Industrial Wind Turbine projects I have researched. Every project has the same complaints noise, vibration, shadow flicker, and sleep problems. How will this project be any different?

According to the article it was reported that on June 16th there was a wind meeting put on by National Wind, yet I wasn’t invited nor were the majority of us that live in Goodhue and Belle creek Townships. This is just another example of how under handed and secretive these Wind Turbine companies are.

“If those who are opposed could be assured that no one’s life would be adversely affected by the proposed wind projects” “to get assurances-perhaps even written- that the promises made to create healthy, environmentally friendly wind projects do occur.” – Sandy Hadler Zumbrota News Record. Don’t guarantees make us feel all warm and good inside the truth of the matter is if the Industrial Wind Turbine Companies were to put Property Value assurances or guarantees into writing they would be leaving the door open for law suits, the Wind Companies are smarter than that and you had better believe the Wind Companies have their attorneys working hard so as not to lose a law suit, that could cost the Wind Companies Millions.

On May 19th at the Goodhue School there was an open public meeting to discuss the wind issue and both Wind Companies were represented. I asked one question in the open forum and it was an easy Yes or No question, I asked if the Wind companies were so sure that may property value would not go down would they purchase my property for a fair market value. The representative from the Wind company said “Well I am trying to sell my house” the he proceeded to talk around the issue with back talk and meaningless dribble; I never did get a yes or no answer.

“The Financial benefits to local people would be awesome”–Sandy Hadler Zumbrota News Record. That statement pretty much sums it up it, it’s all about the money and nothing else, that’s the second time the columnist has mentioned money in her articles wonder where her priorities are? So screw your neighbors, friends and family as long as you get paid! Well I for one put people’s health and quality of life before the all mighty dollar.

Let me ask you this when your child went in the ditch in the middle of January with sub zero temperatures did the Wind companies allow your child into their homes to warm up and use the phone, No, I did, your neighbor. Have the Wind companies ever helped you heard your cattle back home at all hours of the night and morning, No, I did. Who do you ask to watch over your livestock and home place in the event of a family emergency? The Wind Companies? No, it’s me your neighbor, your friend!

So who are you go going to believe, a company by their own admission is a for profit company and trying everything they can to sell you a product, or your neighbor who you have known for years and who truly cares about you and your family.

“The local area would be contributing to green energy!”-Sandy Hadler Zumbrota News Record
According  to the Wikipedia encyclopedia Green Energy is defined as follows: Green energy is the term used to describe sources of energy that are considered to be environmentally friendly and non-polluting, such as geothermal, wind, solar, and Hydro. Sometimes nuclear power is also considered a green energy source. Green energy sources often considered “green” because they are perceived to lower carbon emissions and create less pollution. That is a funny word perceived, don’t you think?

Nowhere in that definition does it state that “Green Energy” should destroy valuable crop land forever by pouring 300 tons of concrete into a hole. Nor does it state that huge specialized tractor trailers, earth movers, and cranes be used to put in these 400 foot Industrial Wind Turbines. I wonder what kind of a carbon foot print these huge pieces of equipment leave? I wonder if these pieces of equipment burn gas or diesel?  If I haven’t raised enough questions for you about the viability of Industrial Wind Turbines, here are a few facts from the May 22, 2009 study from the Minnesota Department of Health.

On page 6 of the study the National Research Council of the National Academies (NRC 2007) states the NRC concludes that noise produced by wind turbines is generally  not a major concern beyond a half mile.   I wonder why the Wind Turbine companies don’t follow the recommendations of the Minnesota Department of Health?  Maybe they just don’t care. I would feel better if the Wind companies took a forward thinking approach to this and would put in writing that the Turbines would be placed a half mile from any occupied dwelling.

On page 14 of the MDH study in section 4 titled Wind farm noise it states, The noise from multiple turbines similarly distant from a residence can be noticeably louder than a lone Turbine simply through the addition of multiple noise sources. I wonder what the 90 Turbines the two wind companies want to erect will sound like when they are turning at the same time . Especially if the Wind Turbine noise is between 45 to 50 dB’s. On page 18 of the MDH study it states that at greater than 45dB more respondents reported sleep interruption. Last time I checked sleep was good thing.

Page 14 of the study addresses shadow flicker. Modeling conducted by the Minnesota Department of Health suggests that a receptor 300 meters perpendicular to, and in the shadow of the blades of a Wind Turbine, can be in the shadow flicker of the rotating blade for almost 1.5 hours a day. At this distance a blade may completely obscure the sun each time it passes between the receptor and the sun. With current wind turbine designs, flicker should not be an issue at distances over 10 rotational diameters (~1000 meters or 1 Km (.06mi) for most current Wind Turbines). I was curious how far .6 miles was so I looked it, .6 miles = 3168 feet.
 
According to the columnist’s article “National Wind places turbines at a minimum of 1,500 feet from residences”- Sandy Hadler Zumbrota News record.  If the MDH recommends 3,168 feet from an occupied dwelling then why would the Wind companies only place them at 1,500 feet?
In summation as Homer Simpson said “Facts are meaningless they can be used to prove anything”.  The facts are out there you just have to look, I hope this has helped potential Turbine hosts become more informed. The group of concerned citizens in Goodhue Township and Belle Creek Township are not against wind energy by any means we would just like to see a proper setback of a ½ mile from any occupied dwelling. So I ask the Wind Turbine companies this is it to much ask to have a ½ mile set back to insure the safety, security ,piece of mind, and quality life we all so richly  and greatly enjoy? We have offered up a compromise which will benefit the Turbine hosts, the Turbine companies, all you have invested money in the project, along with all property owners who will affected by this wind project.

Thank you for your time and thank you to the majority of landowners in Belle Creek and Goodhue Townships who have signed our pet ion for proper Wind Turbine setbacks. If you have not signed the pet ion  and would like to please contact me at loosbrian@hotmail.com and we will surly get you a copie.

Respectfully Yours,
 
Brian Loos
Goodhue Township


June 26, 2009
Goodhue, MN 55027

Zumbrota News Record
Editorial Comments:

‘Local Wind Projects Haunted’ Response

Dear Editor,

In response to the article in your paper about mistakes made at a Wisconsin wind project, I do agree with the writer that “this poorly planned project has made current developers defensive about their projects.”  There are many parts of the country, where residents are discovering that wind projects are poorly planned and are leaving health and safety problems in their wake.  Other consequent problems are devalued property values, road damages, communication signal issues, and more.  Yes, due to complex issues being ignored, poor projects have and are being built in our country.  Projects are going up at a rapid speed, without properly addressing all the issues.

I don’t think anyone objects to renewable energy.  What is objectionable are the problems caused by any form of energy production.  Have these problems been anticipated, worked on, and weighed out before placing industrial wind projects amongst citizens’ homes and farms?  As we research wind power, we find that the problems are repeating themselves, yet regulations are not changing to protect citizens.  The allure of money and industry assurances are perhaps contributing to this.  In other locations in our country and around the world, regulated distances of turbines from homes are as far as one and two miles, and more. 

In light of the Minnesota Department of Health Report on the “Public Impacts of Wind Turbines” released 5/22/09, law makers need to reevaluate and redraft regulations.  The Minnesota statute allows for county governments to examine regulations.  The Minnesota Health Report states a very different distance from current law for reducing problems for our citizens.  This report is easily found on line, and if you don’t have time to read through the approximate 30 page report, there are many summaries to be found. 

At earlier meetings in Goodhue, held by the wind companies, my neighbor who attended, told me that the companies mentioned this report and how they were anxiously waiting for it.  They expected the state to have a positive report.  The Health report did not turn out the way the wind companies wanted.  I expect they will downplay the report. 

Will the county, the state, and the wind companies vouch for citizens’ health, safety, and also, not mentioned in the article, property values, road damages, communication signals, and more?  Is potential revenue being put ahead of citizen health and safety?  The topic of energy is large and complex.  In studying hard the last six months or so, we have expanded our look at high voltage transmission as part of the development of wind, eminent domain issues, and more health and safety information.  Everyone can educate themselves, everyone can practice conservation a great deal more, and together lay out a thoughtful, regulated plan that all citizens can live with, so we are not “haunted by mistakes.”

Sincerely,
Marie McNamara     


At what point did concerned citizens become the compromised group?  Aren't the comprised people the ones who have surrendered their families and their community to the whims of the industrial wind energy companies?  

I like money, I like it a lot!  The problem I have with the big wind companies is that if they are given free rein to do as they please,  they will site their 400 hundred foot plus turbines with one single goal; that is to make as much money as they can for themselves.  They won't care how that will affect me, or you, or your families.  They won't respect the fact I was here first.  

I am not used to hearing a refrigerator running when I sit in my yard.  Right now I can hear things like worms slurping thru the soil after a rain shower; or the hum of a humming bird checking the flowers on my arbor for food.  I daily hear all the little sounds that everyone who lives in country now takes for granted.  Sure, times are hard and a farmer has got to do whatever it takes to make ends meet.  If you feel you are getting a good deal from one of these industrial wind companies and you need the money, then sign; BUT at least be in favor of proper setbacks.  Is it really too much to ask of your neighbors that they don't do anything to hurt you?
 
Proper setbacks would only require that the wind energy companies not site wind turbines where the shadow of turbine falls on your neighbor’s house and that any sound generated by the turbine not be loud enough to be heard in your neighbor’s yard.  If the turbines are really as quiet as they claim, what possible problem could anyone have with simple requirements like that?

Read my wind energy blog at areavoices.com and go to www.Goodhuewindtruth.com to see if you want to help your friends and neighbors; not hurt them.

Rick Conrad
8/4/09


Wind concerns for Goodhue
To the editor:

My family and I live within the proposed footprint of the wind farms near Goodhue. I refuse to be labeled as "anti-wind." I recognize the need to implement renewable sources of energy to save our environment and our planet. As a former engineer, I can see that wind energy is probably the easiest current technology we have to harness nature's energy. As a Minnesotan, I can understand that the path to achieving our state's lofty goal of having 25% of our energy come from renewable sources by 2025 is probably wind energy. As the daughter of a southwestern MN farmer, I can appreciate the financial help that hosting a wind turbine(s) on your land would offer for cash-strapped landowners/farmers. There's no need to accuse me of being "anti-wind."

Current state regulations say wind turbines could be as close as 750 ft. from homes. As I investigate this topic, I'm finding health and wealth to be my biggest concerns.

Health: There are health reports from European doctors (Drs. Amanda Harry, Christopher Hanning, G.P. van den Berg, etc.) and American doctors (Drs. Nina Pierpont, Michael Nissenbaum) indicating that the low frequency noise component generated by wind turbines can cause symptoms - such as sleep disturbances, headaches, vertigo to name a few - in people living close to a wind turbine.

Pierpont has dubbed the constellation of symptoms "Wind Turbine Syndrome" and she recommends a minimum 1.25 mile setback between homes and turbines. A far cry from 750 ft. A larger study is needed to determine how many are affected and at what distances, but how will we get honest data when wind developers won't allow landowners who have signed on to say anything negative about wind? As a sidenote, I find it interesting that the Army Field Manual 2 22.3 lists sleep deprivation as an unacceptable means to interrogate prisoners (decided on by Obama's administration this past January), but it's currently perfectly acceptable to allow persons living next to wind turbines to suffer chronic sleep deprivation. POWs in this country are getting more respect than citizens.

Wealth: Then, there's the issue of property valuations. A Canadian realtor, Chris Luxemberger, saw a $48,000 average drop in price for homes in the $300,000 range. And the number of homes that could not be sold jumped from 3% (the local norm) to 11%. No buyer at any price. He was considering 600 Canadian properties within 3.6 miles of a wind turbine. You don't have to have one 750 ft from you to see your property's value decline.

In Texas, losses were expressed in percentages. Expect about 25% on average (varied from 15-45%) less for your home if you find a buyer. Can you afford that? Not many can. Which is why people who suffer from symptoms find themselves stuck where they are. For some, eventual home abandonment and financial ruin will result. Developers deny home values are affected. Yet as of June 2009, wind developers in Dufferin County in Ontario have spent 1.75 million dollars clandestinely buying homes of people complaining of health effects. In exchange for the buyout, homeowners are having to sign nondisclosure statements.

So you don't live near Goodhue, you say? How does this affect you? Let me paint a picture for you called "How to Determine Where to Build a Wind Farm."

First, you must be able to harvest the wind. In Minnesota, the regions having favorable wind conditions are limited to the western edge of the state, the southwestern corner, and the southeastern corner. Second, you must be able to transmit the energy generated. Remember hearing about CapX2020, the energy corridor proposed along highway 52? Its construction would make all southeastern communities close to 52 a PERFECT location for a wind farm. Minimal distance to hook up to transmission lines means maximizing profits for wind developers.

Third, there must be a demand for the product (electricity). Minnesota has a long way to go to reach their goal of 25% of their energy coming from renewable sources. MANY more wind farms will need to go up. Where does that leave you, citizens of southeastern Minnesota?

The more you learn now, the better prepared you'll be when the wind developer comes to your community wanting to erect a wind farm. Have concerns? Talk to your county commissioners and elected officials. Write to the Public Utilities Commission, Attn. Burl W. Haar Executive Secretary, Docket Number E-999/CI-09-845, 121 7th Place E. Suite 350, St. Paul, MN 55101-2147 before the comment period on health effects from wind turbines ends on September 16.

All contact information can be found at www.goodhuewindtruth.com. For more information on my facts, check out these websites: www.windaction.org, www.windturbinesyndrome.com.

Jean Schulte
Concerned Resident Near Goodhue
8/28/09

Response to Columnist’s Wind Power Article
After reading a columnist's response to 'A Farmer's Regrets' in the News Record on May 6th, I felt the need to express some opposing local opinions that are based on facts.  There are multiple concerning points in the article and with industrial wind power.  Just because some very real health and safety risks associated with the industrial wind power were not mentioned in one specific article, by no means, justifies the assumption that they are not valid.  Look at the facts.  Look at all of the issues people all over the country are forced to struggle with daily due to improper siting of wind turbines.  Concerns such as noise, sleep deprivation, flicker and ice throw are valid issues that are publicized in many articles from all over Wisconsin as well as all over the country. 

The complete disregard for family, friends, neighbors and community is very concerning.  There is no community in Community Based Energy Development.  The future of the peaceful enjoyment of our homes is being determined behind closed doors in meetings with deceiving wind developers and trusting landowners.  I would like to encourage all landowners to meet with their neighbors face to face to understand concerns and opinions prior to selling their wind rights.  This is a major decision that has ripped apart communities all over the country.  Let’s not let this trend, which has already started, continue in Goodhue County.  

While I agree that society must conserve and continue to research and promote alternative power sources, I do not agree that improperly sited industrial wind turbines are a valid alternative.  The free reign of anything deemed “green” is ridiculous.  Anyone who questions whether wind is our best alternative is considered to not care about the environment.  The mentality of not basing decisions on the facts plagues society.  Questioning the feasibility of industrial wind ultimately results in supporters playing the “green” card and making some worthless comparison to a refrigerator.  I have never seen a 400’ tall refrigerator and they typically are not used as headboards.

Per a recent article in the Financial Post and data from a 2008 report from the US Energy Information Administration, “on a one dollar per megawatt basis, taxpayers subsidize wind at $23.34 compared to reliable energy sources: natural gas at $0.25; coal at $0.44; hydro at $0.67; and nuclear at $1.59.  According to the Wall Street Journal, “wind generation is the prime example of what can go wrong when the government decides to pick winners.”   Under current regulation and government it costs tax payers between $69 and $137 per ton of emissions avoided by alternative power.  Under a free market with a cap and trade type of system or a carbon tax this would only cost $15 per ton.”  Is an alternative with so many drawbacks and is 93 times more expensive to tax payers than natural gas a good one?

Our local and state leaders need to stand up and lead.  They need to gain an understanding of proper siting requirements of industrial wind turbines, which is not 750’ from property lines or 50 decibels - whichever is greater.  Under most circumstances we rely on and respect the recommendations from Health Organizations and experts, but when it comes to siting wind turbines we completely disregard their opinions.

There is no comparison between 400 foot tall noisy turbines with 300’ blade diameters and wood power poles.  This isn’t a question of wind power Vs no power.  The power lines were existing when we bought our homes.  We were not surrounded.  The power poles do not make noise.  The power poles cannot be seen 10 miles away.  The power poles do not cause sleep deprivation.  The power poles do not build up ice and then throw it for hundreds of feet.
The percentage of people that wind turbines will be pleasing to in rural Goodhue County is low.  The vast majority of my neighbors oppose a project that does not include proper setback regulation. 

There is no connection between foreign oil and electricity generation.  Crude oil is not imported to be burnt as a fuel to produce electricity.  Wind power has no impact on the crude oil market.
Lance Johnson – Goodhue MN


As I gaze out the window of our home just west of Goodhue, MN, I see rolling farm land, a few cows and the occasional farmer out doing what he/she does best.  Sounds peaceful, right?  Having spent years and our life savings building this ultra-efficient, Geothermal heated/cooled home, my wife and I thought we found a safe place to raise our three children.
 
Two Wind Developers and landowners are trying to change all of that.  They are looking to place between 70 and 90 400-foot-tall wind turbines near this community including the City of Goodhue and the townships of Belle Creek, Goodhue, Mineola, Cherry Creek and possibly others. 

Those of us left in the wake will deal with towers & spinning blades by day, blinking lights at night, shadow-flicker when the sun goes behind the turbine and constant noise when the wind blows.  Property values will also suffer ultimately resulting in lost tax revenue.  I am not looking for a payout here or my fair share, I am happy with the status quo.

I am not anti-wind.  I am for what I call Smart Alternative Energy Projects.  Solar collector grids in the desert outside of Phoenix is Smart!  Wind Farms in sparsely populated areas with lots of wind is Smart!  Wind Farms in more densely populated areas and too close to non-participating residents is NOT Smart and recent studies show not safe either! 

Please help me convince the officials at the Public Utilities Commission that a 500 or even 1000-foot setback is inadequate.  A half-mile setback for non-participating landowners diminishes the effect of the turbines.  This setback does not totally negate these issues.  Want to learn more? Visit Goodhuewindtruth.com. 

I Thank You as do my children!

Tom Schulte
Goodhue, MN

Millionaire investors have come here to make a select few of us millionaires; so they claim.  They will do this by taking advantage of all the new opportunities in wind energy.  New Green Energy is all the rage now; it’s the happening thing.  The Wind Developers tell you to jump in, just sign over your wind rights to us and we’ll take care of everything.  Your ship has come in; it’s going to be great!  Problems, what, possible problems could there be?   It’s just a windmill, every farm used to have one.  Noise, what noise? There’s no gas or diesel engine; it runs off the wind; how could it possibly make noise?  The wind turbines barely make any sound at all.

At the proper set back it sounds like a refrigerator running.  Will it bother my neighbors, you ask.  How could it?   It’s just a windmill.  Anyway, at this point we don’t really need to tell them anything, and their property; well it just isn’t suitable for our purposes.  Look, don’t you like money?  The windmills are coming anyway; don’t get left out.  “Why do I have to sign such a long contract?” you ask?  Well, it takes money to make money.  Our investors have to know that you are committed; after all they are putting millions of dollars into this project.  I don’t want to sign away any of my property rights, you say.  Look all we really care about is your wind rights.  All that other stuff in the contract is there merely to protect our investors.  Who are your investors, you ask?  Well, since we are a CBED project, a lot of them are your friends and neighbors.  Look; by not signing you’re not just hurting yourself, but also everyone in the community who has invested in the project.


Doesn’t this sound like the typical traveling salesman’s spiel to you?   Don’t get left out, I’m doing you a favor, and this won’t hurt anyone!  You are being foolish if you don’t sign.  Everyone else is doing it.
 
Regardless of what they say, these industrial wind energy people did not come here to help us.  I believe, they came here with a business plan that is long and boring read.  It includes things like: profits from manufacturing large industrial wind farms, profits from obtaining wind rights, profits from erecting large wind turbines, profits from government programs promoting clean energy, profits, IF ANY, from the actual sale of the electricity produced.  Of course, I have not seen their actual business plan; has anyone?
 
Not having seen their business plan, I think it is unfair for me to try summarizing it.  But let me try anyway; BUSINESS PLAN...HIDE behind limited liability Corporation, MAKE lots of money; GET OUT while the getting is good!


I am the last person; anyone who knows me; would expect to be against anything alternative!  I am against this project, because nothing will hurt wind energy development in the county more than a bad project.  

You can’t put a deck on your house without a building permit.  It has to be reviewed by township and county boards.  But wind energy developers can put up giant wind turbines whose shadows will hurt the neighbors by inflicting SHADOW FLICKER!  A very disturbing strobe lighting effect!   NOISE, no one should have to listen to the noises produced by these monstrously large machines in their own yard because someone else wants to make a little money.  

If you sign, you will get a few dollars an acre for your wind rights.  WHAT ARE WIND RIGHTS REALLY WORTH?  No one seems to know.   Do you really think these outside investors aren’t looking for a deal?  Do you really want to give away your wind rights for 30 or more years?  Who will get a turbine?  The turbines are so huge and they are only talking about doing approximately 50.  You think you have a good spot for one?  Maybe your neighbor’s land is better.  What if they need your wind rights just to put a turbine on your neighbor’s property?  If you get a turbine on your land, then I guess you might get 2 % of the gross proceeds from that turbine.  What is the formula used to calculate that percentage?  What guarantee do you have the formula won’t change?  Where does the rest of the money go?  Doesn’t it appear that most of the proceeds go to the outside investors?  Do you really want to be told what you can and cannot do on your own land?


Isn’t approximately 2 % profit next to nothing compared to the profits they expect to make?  How can this possibly be a good deal when it’s generated from your original wind rights on your land?  

When you sign with these companies, why can’t you talk to your neighbors about it?  Is that for your own protection?  Don’t they want you bragging to your neighbors about how much money you’re going to be making?  WHY are these companies keeping so many secrets?  When I asked about setbacks and how many windmills I would be looking at out my living room window, I was told if I wasn’t signing, they didn’t have to tell me.  Why is our local government allowing this to happen?
 
I believe there is a lot of money to be made from the wind.  I like the idea of a windmill in the distance quietly spinning out electricity and money for “its owner”.  Don’t sign away your wind rights and be locked out of that future forever.  If you have a neighbor with a few acres or a building site nearby, don’t do something in haste that may harm the people living there or destroy their property value.  Of course, if it’s some city slicker who complains your manure stinks… well not even then, don’ t do it!

There are better ways to make money off the wind.  Maybe the money isn’t as easy, but I don’t trust these industrial wind energy companies to do what is best for me or the citizens of Goodhue County.  Why should I trust them, they keep secrets from me.  They admit they came here to make a profit for their investors.  What they don’t talk about is HOW MUCH MONEY they actually pump out of here for themselves!  Keep your wind rights, use them yourself.  Put up a turbine on your land.  Let your family and friends in on the deal.  Get the government money for wind energy development that you paid in as taxes back.  Collect 100 % of the gross revenues yourself.  Use your own formula to calculate how much money you get to keep.  Be the boss; don’t answer to a board of directors.  Be a good neighbor!


Rick Conrad
 
 

August 24, 2009

Dear Congressman John Kline,

This letter represents a growing number of residents in Goodhue County concerned about development by two industrial wind companies.   We feel that the wind energy developers, National Wind and Geronimo are rapidly getting land owners to sign their wind rights away, with no consideration for or notification to neighbors.  This is a “C-BED” project, yet the community has little, if any input. 

I have called your office in Burnsville several times and discussed this issue in depth with one of your associates, but as of yet no one has given me any information to help.  Correct me if I am wrong, but according to our Constitution, isn’t the government’s position to protect life and property?

Since the stimulus package from the federal government, a lot of money has been designated for alternative energy and especially for wind development.  This is an extremely complex and multi-faceted issue that demands more time.  Government is “picking the winner” without enough research from neutral and qualified sources.

The following documents address and elaborate on our most serious concerns:
•    Letter from Engineer, Lance Johnson
•    Wind Turbines on the Skyline
•    Low Benefit- Huge Negative Impact
•    Wind Energy and wind turbines
•    Summary of the MN Health Department Public health Impact s of Wind Turbines
•    Full Report: MN Department of Health Department report
•    Community based Health Survey – Ontario
•    Dr. Pierpont’s peer-reviewed report for non-clinicians

Please review the enclosed documents.  Inadequate setbacks causing health and safety hazards are being overlooked; loss of property values are being ignored.  We are innocent victims asking for your help and direction.
Thank you for your time.  Please reply at your earliest convenience.
Sincerely,

Steve Groth


Minnesota Public Utilities Commission            Docket Number E-999/CI-09 845
121 7th Place E., Suite 350                RESPONSE PERIOD COMMENTS
Saint Paul, MN 55101-2147               
 
Attn:  Dr. Burl W. Haar, Executive Secretary

Dear Dr. Burl Haar, and Commissioners,

September 24th, 2009 Goodhue County Commissioner sponsored a public meeting for the Geronimo and National Wind (Goodhue Wind, LLC). 

The panelist consisted of the following representatives:

Geronimo:  Charlie Daum; Director of Development
            Patrick Smith; GSI Specialist
            Matthew Betolatus; Financial Analyst
           
National Wind; Goodhue Wind, LLC:
            Chuck Burdick; Senior Wind Developer
           
Tim Casey, National Acoustic Program Manager; HDR Engineering.  It is unclear who hired him to speak at this meeting. He has a Bachelors Degree in Biology from Xavier College (20 years ago).  Studied Environmental engineering & Health in Minnesota and Illinois, but never completed his degrees in this field.

Geronimo Wind acknowledged all their employees who were present in the audience at the meeting’ however; National Wind (Goodhue Wind) did not.  They made mention of their employee names who have been working this territory, but conveniently left out two local residents they hired as Field Representatives.  We find that quite disturbing since one of the Field representatives has used unethical tactics and pressure in getting landowners to sign contracts.  They refer anyone who opposes their project as “anti-wind people”.   When in reality, we don’t oppose the wind; we want safe turbine setbacks from our homes and property.

The meeting appeared to be very slanted toward the Wind Developers.  Especially, when it was sponsored by our county commissioners.  There was “no one” on the panel to represent the views of the other side.  Many other landowners and residents who reside in and around the footprint oppose this project.  There are more against it than for it.

The county displayed a map of our townships and placed a circle around each home to represent a 1500 ft setback.  In between the circles were slivers of areas where a turbine could be sited.  There was not much room at all for turbines!  The county spokes person stated that if they have to adopt a ½ mile setback the project could not be developed.  So, if this is true, then isn’t it obvious, especially from view the map, that a wind farm does not belong here!  It looked very clear we are too densely populated for them to safely site a wind farm in Belle Creek, Mineola and Goodhue townships!

Both Developers spoke in turn about their project and progress.  Then Tim Casey spoke on Turbine Noise.  He tried to explain how the turbine generates noise.  He described the noise from the nacelle, the structure and the generator.  Then he explained the noise and vibration created from the wind through the blades of older generation turbines, and this type of noise is not created by newer models of turbines.  He said the swish noise of the turbine is caused by the aerodynamic sound from the blade rotating and passing the mast.  The mast blocks the wind from the blade and this causes a change in the aerodynamic pressure.  He then goes on to explain the change of wind speeds between the tips of one blade at the lowest point to the tip of the blade at the highest point, explaining wind changes called wind shear.  He said there is an aerodynamic fluctuation of pressure which causes a change sound, they call this amplitude modulation.  He stated some people find this noise disturbing.  He stated we don’t know who is sanative to this type of pressure or noise.  He they do not know who is affected by this.  He stated there is only self proclaimed or peer review sources who claim they are getting sick from the turbines.  He tries to discredit any studies taken from people who live in or around a wind farm.  He states there are no studies taken by any medical professionals.  He said people only perceive they are sick because the can see the turbine. 

When questions were put to him comparing the turbine noise to something that sounds similar such as sounding like a jet engine or a helicopter, he said we could not compare the sound because there were no diesel engine in a turbine.  So, you could not compared to turbine noise to anything you know.  I find that odd, how else does a person explain a certain noise?

Reality is there are studies that have been taken by Dr. Nina Peirpont; the Onterio Health Study by Dr. Robert McMurtry; the Dean of Medicine at the University of Western Ontario, Canada.  People who live in a wind farm are getting sick and are complaining.  There has to be something to this.  They are getting sick from something, possibly the high voltage lines that connect the turbines and carry the power?!  I don’t want us to be the test rat for this project!

At this meeting you were to fill out a card with questions, however, they failed to let people know about this at the beginning of the meeting, so many who had questions did not get a chance to fill out a card.  Also, the cards they did take, were censored, we watched as they ran through and picked out certain questions and laid other cards on the table.  Some people complained after the meeting their question was not read.

The county said they researched property values in other counties with wind farms.  They stated the property values did not decline, “but” the only checked on land values of agricultural land with turbines!  Not the small residential land.  This is not the type of research I expect from my county officials!  They should be looking out for “all” of us!

After the meeting my husband and I had a short discussion with one of the developers and asked if they planned to do an environmental study.  They said they likely will do one since there had not been done.  We then made mention of several eagles in this area and asked how this would affect them.  The developer stated it would be a problem, and they’ll have to get a special permit that protects them from having to pay a file when an eagle is killed by the turbine. 

The rest of us would have to pay a fine, but they can get a permit…to kill a protected bird we worked so hard to get off the endangered list!

The turbines are an industrial product and don’t belong on agricultural land where food is grown.  Nor should they be placed in populated areas where “people” live!  If they can’t site them at least ½ mile from our homes, then they don’t belong here. 

Sincerely,

Melody Ryan
Goodhue, MN


 
Destruction of habitat is wrong whether it is the destruction of the habitat of a rare frog, the habitat of a bald eagle or the habitat of the graying hard working American  taxpayer. People should have the right to harvest the wind that blows across their property but only if they can do it without harming their neighbors or destroying the value of their neighbors property  Even if you disregard all the other problems with siting  wind turbines near to peoples residences, the 50 decibel limit applied to wind turbines sited into quiet rural areas is unfair to property owners. The 50 decibel limit that stems from Minnesota Rule 7030 is a noise pollution limit normally applied in urban areas with normal background noise levels that are much higher than  the background levels normally found in a quiet rural area. The 50 decibel limit does nothing to protect the value of your property when the value of your property is based on other people’s desire to obtain a quiet place in the country.  Very few people will want to purchase your property when all you can hear is noise from wind turbines.
 
I have little hope that wind energy developers will learn to respect the rights of small property owners any time in the near future on their own. Eventually if enough people are hurt or loss property value I am sure that a class action law suit will be filed against the wind energy industry in general.  Measures need to be taken now to insure that wind energy and all property owners are protected. Reasonable set backs need to be adopted.
    
Wind  energy development should  have simple common sense requirements.  Two basic ones should be that you can not cast a shadow on someone’s residence or building site and that no noise generated by the wind turbine be detectable above the normal background sound levels of the area.  Also, some form of enforceable remedy needs to be available to those people who experience problems from wind turbines. Someone at some level needs to be able shut down the operation of turbines found to be in violation of  whatever the sound limit is.
 
Perhaps the incentives to build these large  scale industrial wind farms should be eliminated altogether. Instead the incentives should be redirected to promote more individually owned wind generators tied into the local utility grid which by their very nature would create less problems with public acceptance.

I believe the biggest problem with alternative energy development is that local utilities are unable to accommodate individuals who have access to wind or solar power without creating problems for themselves. Local utilities need to be able to take the power from small generators and resell it for a profit or at least not lose money in the process. I would invest money today in alternative energy generating equipment if  I was sure I could sell enough power  to the local utility over the lifetime of the equipment to recover my money.
      
Exchange standards and connection standards that will allow the small scale alternative energy producers to sell their power to local utilities for a  guarantied below retail price and the local utility to resell all forms of green power for a profit need to be developed. These standards along with equipment that would allow local utilities the ability to instantly disconnect any grid inter tied generation equipment safely without damage to private party equipment, would allow the entire grid to function more efficiently and safely.  For Instance if the local utility were to piggyback a signal on the power line and if any generator had to receive this signal to remain connected then if a line broke or the utility quit transmitting the signal the generator would instantly be disconnected from the grid..

Industrial wind energy production is not alternative energy it is just business as usual. Industrial wind developers  do little more than destroy the tax base and avoid paying their own taxes. Real alternative energy is individuals, small businesses, cities, and towns  taking advantage of resources available locally to create their own power and selling any extra to others who need it. As controllers of the grid the sooner you accept that, the sooner a brighter energy future will dawn for all Americans.

 
Rick Conrad    4 September 2009

Published September 23 2009
Question developments’ ‘green’ nature of wind is clear
We are all concerned about the effects of global warming and, in response, wind turbine developers have been marching with their “green” flags. This of course allows them to reap huge financial benefits from the tax dollars paid by you and me.
By: Chris Mallery, Kenyon,
 
To the Editor:

We are all concerned about the effects of global warming and, in response, wind turbine developers have been marching with their “green” flags. This of course allows them to reap huge financial benefits from the tax dollars paid by you and me.

One argument we keep hearing is wind turbines will reduce our reliance on foreign oil. In 2008, U.S. oil consumption was 71 percent for transportation, 23 percent for industrial, 5 percent for residential and commercial, and 1 percent for electrical generation.

Since a major portion of CO2 emissions are from automobiles, we could take the millions of tax dollars that are allocated for wind generation and put that toward hydrogen powered vehicles and upgrades to gas stations.
 
We would drastically reduce and/or eliminate our reliance on foreign oil and hydrogen powered automobiles produce zero CO2.People also mistakenly believe that by using wind energy we will be able to decrease the number of fossil-fueled and nuclear power plants. Unfortunately that is not true.
The wind blows the most during the winter, not summer when there is the greatest need. The electricity generated in the winter cannot be stored so consequently the coal and nuclear power plants have to work harder during the summer to make up for the lack of wind generated electricity produced.
You could erect additional tens of thousands of wind turbines across our beautiful country and still not eliminate one single coal or nuclear power plant.

Our county commissioners and township officials can have an impact on developments in our county. Please contact the commissioners and local officials and let them know you are concerned not only for the health, safety and quality of life that would be affected by wind turbines but also the true necessity.
 
Is the stampede for wind energy because of a desire for “green — save the earth” or “green — the color of money”?

Chris Mallery
Kenyon

For information on items discussed here visit:
www.windcows.com
www.wind-watch.org
www.windconcerns
www.ontario.wordpress.com

 

Wind energy development costs 2 million dollars per megawatt installed.
The service life of a turbine is about 20 years.
The total benefit to Goodhue County is about $440,000 a year.
The state will be holding the funds for dismantling.
No  information was given about final disposal of turbine blades and whether or not they are hazardous waste.
They stated that they are businessmen out to  make a profit.
They  stated that louder noise is generated  when the wind blows harder.
They stated that the noise would be hard to hear because the noise of the wind would be louder.
They stated that property rights of land owners gave them the right to place turbines at the setbacks as determined by PUC.
They stated that they were doing the community very possible  benefit that they could financially.
They did not respond  when I stated that 400-foot tower exceed the bounds of property rights.
They stated that they studied wind turbine noise extensively.
They stated that modern wind turbines do not produce noise.
They stated that turbines that were making noise could have their blades optimized to reduce noise.
They did not say whether they would chose  to optimize for noise or  more electricity when I put the question  to them as businessmen which way will optimize blades.
  
Rick conrad
9/29/09


Scott & Melody Ryan
37859 County 47 Blvd
Goodhue, MN  55027

PUC comment to Docket 09-845

Commissioners,

We are 4th generation on a family crop & livestock farm just outside of Goodhue, MN.  My husband has lived here all his life and I’ve lived here for 16 years.Last July we were approached by two wind developers.  They both sat at our kitchen table and presented their proposed contacts for obtaining Wind rights to our family farm.  We listened and asked many questions. 

They told us our electric bill would decrease in cost, and land values in this area would increase.  There was much promise of money that would be brought to the town of Goodhue, the school and the community.  They made it sound like we’d become extremely wealthy!  It was all about the money we would make!  Just sounded too good to be true…

They told us we’d be able to continue our farming as if nothing was different.  They said turbines were safe and extremely quiet. They never mentioned flicker, ice throw or low frequency noise.   They also stated no one could stop the project, that it will happen and they would not take “No” for an answer!  They said “why not sign and get a payment, because my neighbor may get a turbine and you’d live next to one anyway”.  They made it appear as if you really did not have a choice, so you should “join them, because you can beat them”!

Over a couple months, things they told us did not add up, and the secrecy of meetings and contract changes really bothered us. One developer said if anyone negotiated a better contract than what we signed, everyone who signed in the project got the better contract.  If the contract keeps changing, then why sign one?  Wouldn’t   this make the original contract you signed null and void?  So we started doing some research. 

We became very concerned about information we found pertaining to health problems caused by low frequency noise, shadow flicker, ground voltage problems, ice throw, land values, and possible litigation from surrounding landowners.

When we approached them on the Pierpont studies of Wind Turbine Syndrome, they told us this information was undocumented and “NO ONE” living in a wind farm ever got sick for the Turbines.  They told us “everything you read on the internet is not true”!  You can’t believe anything you find there.  I find it ironic, that they point you to the internet to read certain documents or view their website to back their words!

We had questions about shadow flicker.  They told us that it rarely happens in the US because of the latitude angles of the US in comparison to the sun, and that it is not possible for that to happen here.
 
I asked about ice throw, they told me this was resolved and it is not an issue anymore.  However, at one of the Wind Developers meetings, one of the farmers in their projects who host a number of turbines was a guest speaker.  I asked him about issues with the turbines on his property.  He said they are not noisy and shadow flicker did not bother him, course the turbines are over a mile from his house and neighbors.  When I asked about ice throw, he his comment was “Oh, that is a problem, you don’t want to be anywhere near that, you’ll get seriously hurt”!
When asked about litigation issues, they told us our neighbors could not sue us and no litigation would hold up in court.  We asked about land values.  They told us land values increase if you were in a wind farm!  This we found this not to be true from outside realtors.

We asked about land taxes.  They told us the county would zone the ½ acre the turbines are on as commercial and they pay those taxes.  They did tell us that they know of one site where the county increased the landowner’s property where he had to pay higher taxes.  One of our commissioners told me, that if we had a building site, it would be lost to the turbine.

REA sent a letter to all their customers explaining why Wind Power increases your electric cost and as they take on this type of renewable power, they will lose profit and will push this cost off on their customers, expect to see our electric cost increase.  When we showed this to the wind developers, they laughed at it and said it was untrue.  So who do you believe?

We asked about the new studies that state our electrical demand has decreased and that the wind turbines don’t produce to the numbers they state.  The wind doesn’t blow best when we need it.  And if it blows too hard, it is not useable!  They tell us the data we have is incorrect.  Well, then what is correct?

Both wind developers kept talking about this white paper that was to be released in May from the Minnesota health Department.  They told us it should be a good report and they were anticipating its release.  When it came out, they tried to down play it and that it was inconclusive and we should not believe the report.  It was bogus and a lie.

We asked “why Goodhue”?  Is the wind so good here?  Their answer, “The wind is so, so, okay; but there is room on your electrical grid. That is why we are here”. 

We asked them to consider a ½ mile set back from homes.  They said they could not do this because it would shut the project down.  They admitted their biggest challenge here in Goodhue is we are too populated!  If this is true, then a “safe” wind project cannot be built in Goodhue.  This is not the right place for industrial size wind turbines.  This is agriculture land!  People and animals live here!  We are not in industrial park or development.

Goodhue has been a close knit community and was a great place to raise your kids, but things have changed since the developers have arrived.  Neighbors, families, siblings are fighting against each other.  Brother against brother.  The community is splitting.  One wind employ stated she could see that it was splitting the community.  She said she felt really bad about it.  Right!  They will come in, put up turbines then leave or sell the project.  What will we be left with!?  A broken, damaged community!

Some have moved, more are getting ready to place their homes up for sale.  Others are searching for legal help. 

One neighbor had to pay to have his land cleared at the court house, because one of the developers had it listed he signed wind rights away.  He was moving because his neighbor signed and he could not live with a turbine next to his house!

Another neighbor down the road keeps complaining they are hounding him daily!  He is very frustrated.  Because we have openly stated our opinions on requesting safe setbacks, the developers have labeled us as “Anti-Wind people”.  We are radical!  It can’t be further from the truth!  We are trying to protect our rights, land, family and community.

We are getting blamed for stupid things like flat tires and such.  I hear comments like “maybe the anti-wind people did it”!  This type of thing fightens me!  I am starting to become concerned for our safety, this type of behavior can lead to bad things.

There is much to consider and protect when siting and building an industrial Wind farm.  There is protecting people’s health, from Wind turbine syndrome, shadow flicker and ice throw.  Protecting out land values and livelihoods.  Protect our community and generations of familys and friends being destroyed. 

We have no one else to turn to other than the people we have elected to represent us.  We have tried to contact our county commissioners, only to find out they were contacted almost a years in prior by the wind developers.  At one meeting they told us there was nothing they could do to help us, that it was out of their hands.  We are having to research and give them information on what they should do to represent the people!

We are finding that Wind Energy is more of a Green Politic, and not so much a good Green Solution!

Scott and Melody Ryan



Whether or not a Large Wind Energy Conversion System (LWECS) Project is good for an area depends a great deal on population density.

Although, we are a rural area we have many people living here with four to ten acres with their house.  Unlike western Minnesota and parts of Iowa, which are large cash crop areas, when farms are sold in our area the building sites are kept up and used.  Also, they have farms that the fields have many more acres and are wide open with fewer homes dispersed in between.

In fact, in the Goodhue County townships where these Industrial Wind Turbines will be placed, we have a much higher density population.  Goodhue Township has 5.5 homes per section on average, Belle Creek Township has 5.2 homes per section on average, and Minneola Township approximately 5.6 homes per section on average.  However; there are sections with as many as 8 or 9 homes per section.  In comparison, Dean Runde, an Iowa farmer stated, “We only have 1 home per section and sometimes 0 homes per section.”  Mr. Runde has turbines on his property but none closer than a ½ mile.  “It will never work in your area because you are too populated and it will negatively affect too many people,” Mr. Runde concluded.

People in Goodhue County understand that living in the country means at times they will smell manure, deal with slow equipment on the roads and possibly other small inconveniences.   These people are not “chronic complainers”.   They do, however; have very real concerns about noise, health issues, and property values dealing with Industrial Wind Turbines.   Obviously, these issues become much more important in higher populated areas.  For example, the recent “White Paper from the Minnesota Department of Health” show that certain areas such as ours, need stricter setbacks and clearly states, “Low frequency noise from a wind turbine is generally not easily perceived beyond ½ mile.”

Shouldn’t wind farms be placed in more ideal places with less population and with greater setbacks? 

Steve Groth


October 16, 2009

To the Editor,

I am writing to share some information in regards to the industrial Wind Projects coming into Goodhue County.  In an effort to learn more about how a wind project affects us, it seemed like a good idea to talk to people in areas that are being developed or have projects up.  With the Goodhue projects, we are getting a side that the wind companies alone are giving us.  I have some very big concerns for my family and my neighbors. I have doubts that everyone knew enough when they signed contracts. 

So, a neighbor and I came in contact with a farmer in Cambria, Wisconsin.  We took a road trip to see him.  Gary Steinich is a farmer who regretted signing a wind contract.  He was happy to share his story so other landowners and communities would not make the same mistakes as those in his area had.

The town and area of Cambria, Wisconsin is very similar to ours.  It has nice farmland and is an Ag based community that was tight and close-knit; with neighbor helping neighbor.  Unfortunately, now has changed because of a wind development that will be starting soon. 

This is Gary’s story.  In 2004 the Steinich family signed their farm corporation with Florida Power and Light (FPL) in a wind farm easement.  At that time, their present land values and commodity prices made the turbine lease payments seem very attractive.  Gary was assured the project would be similar to the straight line configuration near Montfort, WI, with similar size turbines.

Four years went by and very little was ever mentioned about the project.  It was suggested by FPL personnel that the project was “dead” and not going to be built.  Suddenly, in 2008, FPL and WE Energies announced the sale of the project and purchase by WE Energies.  Landowners were given no choice in the matter to cancel their agreements.  “The plan today proposed by WE Energies, is not the proposed plan many of us originally signed for.  Their plan consists of 400 ft. turbines, 1000 feet from non-participant homes, contracts for 30-40 years.  None of this was anticipated by any of us landowners.”

“Many outspoken proponents of wind development in this area live miles away from the turbines proposed on their property, yet they are perfectly willing to allow turbines placed 1,000 feet from non-participating neighbors,” Gary told us.  “One even has said that he would not want a turbine next to his house.  Lifelong friendships already have been severed.”

Gary talked openly about the tactics used by the wind developers and how it was not just unique to his area.  They use similar tactics everywhere.  We are now hearing about it in our community; such as, the relentless pressure to sign; lies about which neighbors had signed, who really didn’t sign.  The wind developers made verbal promises to the land owners, but without these important details written in the contracts, will not be honored.  The contracts contain non-disclosure clauses or gag orders.  Divisions have been created in the community by not having at least a half mile setback written in the contract to protect everyone’s health and safety, but most importantly, what it does to neighbors.  People are reluctant to even speak out about the issue.  They are afraid of what it will do to their business, how it will affect their family, and how it will affect their friendships.  This is no way to put in place a renewable energy plan. 

Gary has extreme remorse about what he did to his neighbors, by not thinking of them before he signed.  He stated that money and greed motivates all of us, but is a weak justification to the consequences of a project of this magnitude.  He sincerely does not want any community to go through what his area is dealing with.  He kept saying, “Think about your neighbor and community. They were here before to the wind developers!” 

Gary’s story was presented at the Goodhue Lions Building on September 30th, and if you want to see that presentation, it is at www.goodhuewindtruth.com for viewing.  I hope everyone looks carefully at wind easement contracts and also thinks about their neighbor and their community. 

Sincerely, 
Scott Ryan 
Goodhue, MN

11/15/2009
Goodhue County Population Density in relation to LWEC
     
Whether or not a Large Wind Energy Conversion System (LWECS) Project is good for an area depends a great deal on population density.
    
Although we are a rural area we have many people living in the area with four to ten acres with their house.  Unlike western Minnesota and parts of Iowa that are large cash crop areas, when farms are sold in our area the building sites are kept up and used.  Also, they have farms that the fields have many more acres and are wide open with fewer homes dispersed in between.
    
In fact, in the Goodhue County townships where these Industrial Wind Turbines will be placed, we have a much higher density population.  Goodhue Township has 5.5 homes per section on average, Belle Creek Township has 5.2 homes per section on average and Minneola Township approximately 5.6 homes per section on average.  However, there are sections with as many as 8 or 9 homes per section.  In comparison, Dean Runde, an Iowa farmer stated, “We only have 1 home per section and sometimes 0 homes per section.”  Mr. Runde has turbines on his property but none closer than a ½ mile.  “It will never work in your area because you are too populated and it will negatively affect too many people,” Mr. Runde concluded.
      
People in Goodhue County understand that living in the country means at times they will smell manure, deal with slow equipment on the roads and possibly other small inconveniences.   These people are not “chronic complainers”.   They do, however, have very real concerns about noise, health issues and property values dealing with Industrial Wind Turbines.   Obviously, these issues become much more important in higher populated areas.  For example, the recent “White Paper from the Minnesota Department of Health” show that certain areas such as ours need stricter setbacks and clearly states, “Low frequency noise from a wind turbine is generally not easily perceived beyond ½ mile.”
     
Shouldn’t wind farms be placed in more ideal places with less population and with greater setbacks?  

Ann Buck
Goodhue, MN      

My name is Wendy Todd and I am from Mars Hill, Maine. I grew up in Mars Hill, on a farm that has been in my family for generations. After getting married, my husband Perrin and I moved to southern Maine. About five years ago we moved back to the County to raise our children and enjoy the rural living that we both grew up with. Shortly after moving into our new home at the base of Mars Hill Mountain, construction began on the Mars Hill Wind Farm. The entire project went on line in March of 2007.

The wind turbines have changed our lives forever.

There are 18 families who live under a mile and downwind of the Mars Hill wind project who have been negatively impacted by these massive turbines. We all want for people to understand what is at stake when turbines move into your community. The 28, GE 1.5 megawatt turbines here in Mars Hill have destroyed a way of life that many have cherished for generations. It is an industrial facility that covers over 3 miles. It has destroyed wildlife habitat, breathtaking views, and property values. It has forever scarred the mountain. It has disturbed streams, ponds and wetlands. Safety issues with ice throw, risks of fire and tower collapse are all things that neighbors have to consider.

The noise created by the turbines can be unbearable at times. It causes disruption to sleep patterns, stress and anxiety to most who live downwind of the project. For some it causes headaches, pressure or ringing in the ears, inability to concentrate, feelings of unease, and dizziness. Others who suffer from migraines are saying that their migraines are worse and that their medications are no longer as effective in relieving the pain. Some of my neighbors have turned to medications and other therapies to cope. Most of us have had to alter something, either in our homes or personal lives, to cope with how the turbines have changed the environment. I am not talking about a simple nuisance, this is about life altering changes to the environment that can literally make people sick and change the way you live in your home and use your land. A large number of the families affected have considered leaving their homes.

Many in the acoustic and medical communities are calling for a 1.5 kilometer or greater set back for industrial wind turbines from homes, schools, and medical facilities for reasons of health and well being. Proper setbacks are the only way to provide protection.
I truly believe it is only a matter of time before the scientific data will be there to force more stringent regulation on this industry, but for now you have to protect yourselves because no one else is able to do so. Your friends in Mars Hill are begging that you listen and heed our warnings before you too find yourself in this nightmare.

Many promises were made to our town through the information period before construction began. Talk of job creation, reductions in carbon emissions, and reductions in our taxes were all very appealing. Many inaccurate, false statements were given about the noise issue. We were told that we would have to be within 500 feet of the project to hear anything at all from the turbines and that there would be no noise at all at the base of the mountain. Shadow flicker was never discussed.

The extent of how huge the construction phase would be or what kind of disruption we as citizens should expect was not discussed either. The Mars Hill project was supposed to reduce carbon emissions by 65 million tons, yet when asked to show confirmation of that, they cannot show where any regional power plants have stopped or slowed production that would realize any carbon reductions at all.
The promise of jobs went mostly to large corporations and their employees from mid to southern Maine. Most local crews did not have the expertise to meet the needs of the developer.

They told us that property values tend to go up when turbines move in, but appraisals show a 20 percent to 50 percent devaluation of property depending on proximity and visibility of the turbines. One appraiser even said that some of our properties might never sell.

Mars Hill was the first project of its kind in our state but there should be no excuse for how little the people of Mars Hill knew about this process. Maine Department of Environmental Protection and the developer had a good understanding of what was going to take place but it was never communicated properly to the people of Mars Hill. One can only imagine how different things would be if the truth had been known. The state of Maine has not adopted rules that will protect its residents from this kind of project. At this point in time, individual communities must take action to protect their families because there are no wind industry guidelines that will. The developers hope that they can get in and operational before you understand the facts about wind. They make you feel that you would be a fool not support such a wonderful project. We were naïve and believed what the developer told us.

You are in a different place. So much new information is becoming available to communities who are considering wind. You are not alone. You have the chance and the responsibility to listen to all the information and choose wisely for your town. Any of the 18 families here in Mars Hill are willing to answer any questions or concerns that you may have regarding what life is like under industrial wind turbines. If you are not going to be affected personally ask yourself if a friend or neighbor will be. Protect each other. Ask lots of questions and use caution when listening to the developer. They are there to sell their project, not tell you all the negative things that can happen.

What can you do to learn more? Attend local meetings, listen, and visit a few Web sites on the impacts of industrial wind and wind turbine syndrome. Educate yourselves now before it is too late. Defend your ridgelines, your homes and your way of life. No one else will do it for you. Once the project is approved there is no hope and no turning back.

Responses to Letter from Mars Hill (Maine)

1.Art Giacalone says: November 6th, 2009 at 11:56 am

My thanks to Wendy Todd for sharing this information, and to Dr. Nina Pierpont for ensuring that Wendy’s all-too-accurate depiction of the travesty that accompanies industrial-scale wind development is disseminated as widely as possible. Wind developers have been irresponsible and deceptive when selling their projects, and woefully negligent when addressing the problems endured by nearby residents once the “farms” are operating. Government officials and agencies alone have the power and resources to prevent these horror stories. Sadly, they have failed miserably when it comes to protecting families, the character of rural America, and the environment.

Editor’s note: For those who don’t know, Art Giacalone is a Harvard-trained lawyer living in western NY State. He has been heavily involved for years in trying to protect individuals like Wendy Todd, and their communities, from Big Wind. He is a man of tremendous courage and moral fiber. A man whom Nina & I admire enormously. Click here for his website.


2.John Gilbert says: November 6th, 2009 at 5:06 pm

I’m a summer resident of South Marysburgh on the eastern area of the south shore region of Prince Edward County (PEC) Ontario. From age 12 in my various sailboats I’ve seen all islands and coastline from Toronto to Brockville, Ontario and Rochester to Alexandria Bay, NY. In 1995 I bought a cottage there because I had learned in my voyages that The Point Traverse area of South Marysburgh was the the most remote location.
Three years ago my brother Barrie a retired wildlife professor chose to settle on Wolfe Island for the same wildlife / remote reasons, but his dreams are now buried under 86 monster wind turbines. Wolfe Island now an Industrial Park is called “Freak Island”.

Grrrr. It’s legal to glorify illegal action in Canada as long as one does not refer to specific targets so if you hear of country boys having fun shooting the blades off turbines in America, let me know. I don’t own a gun but just can’t help smiling at the thought. A Canadian is just like an American, except he has universal health care and no gun. I would rather with all your horrific shooters they consider targeting monster machines instead of people.