A personal perspective recently presented about wind-energy is simplistic in numerous ways. The view, given by a letter to the Public Pulse in the local newspaper on May 16th, does however accurately convey the position of the writer, Richard Holland.
The letter has a primary emphasis that wind-energy development could promote the "opportunity for increased wealth" that would be advantageous. There was the staggering suggestion that 2-3000 wind turbines should be placed within Nebraska.
This perspective is so dramatically short-sighted that it is but a misguided promotion piece.
There was nothing said to refer to the impacts of wind-turbine development. How may wildbirds might get killed by the turbines? How much wildlife habitat might be destroyed by turbine installation? How many miles of associated powerline will mar the landscape in order to connect a turbine facility to the grid?
And more importantly, why should tax-payers be required to pay subsidies for wind energy development? This is especially a ruse, needed to money from many to line the pockets of a few. Extensive development would not "be beneficial to every Nebraskan," despite what Holland might convey.
Perhaps if Holland wanted to do more than sign checks and write letters to the editor, he could get involved with making the Holland Performing Arts Center in downtown Omaha a bird-safe building. The glass-walled building for which he was a primary benefactor, is a well-known hazard for migratory birds, with more than a hundred instances recorded. There would certainly be more, but facility staff find the carcasses and dispose of them to ensure that they are not recorded. The Omaha Performing Arts Society has done nothing to revise the glass facade, as explained repeatedly, because it would mar the buildings features and would have an excessive cost.
Holland also uses his wealth to donate to Bold Nebraska, which also has a driven effort for wind energy development, without any apparent consideration of negative aspects.
Both the letter writer and organization need to broaden their perspective. Nebraskans have the will to act, but why should they act in a manner which is neither economically or environmentally suitable.
A recent bird fatality at the Holland Performing Arts Center. May 19, 2013. | The most recent bird fatality at the Holland Performing Arts Center. May 19, 2013. These are both female Common Yellowthroats. |
