Central Oregon Sagebrush

photo credit: nullsignal

In a little over 2 weeks, Crook County in Central Oregon, will hold a hearing on a wind project that is small enough that it is only required to go through local review, but big enough to make waves with some people that are opposed to the renewable energy project.  The developer needs to secure support from the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), Crook County and other state agencies, including the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW).

With support of local residents, and those that may live further away, but are still in favor of renewable energy projects (yes, that means YOU), the West Butte Wind Project is exactly the type of alternative energy we should be rooting for.  If you have not yet been to our Forums page, you can see the numerous posts of many that want to learn more about this defining moment for wind energy in Oregon.

The turbines of the West Butte Wind Project are proposed to be sited in Crook County.  But other elements require input from additional jurisdictions and agencies.  Overall, about 50 wind turbines are proposed, that will generate 104 megawatts – under the 105 megawatt limit that would also require approval from the Oregon Energy Facility Siting Council.  With approval, the project could create enough clean, renewable energy to power over 50,000 homes.  In nearby Bend, Oregon (where I live and the central metropolis of the region) there are 80,000 residents.  Can you imagine powering all those homes, and then some, solely with the West Butte Wind Project?

The following video was produced by 3E Strategies.  This organization has pledged support to the West Butte Wind Project.  I think that Cylvia Hayes speaks volumes here:

One of the representatives of the project developer, Sarah Rankin, has asked for our support.  I will personally be at the hearing on February 25, 2009, wearing a Build Baby Build button.  Before the hearing, I’ll write a letter to Crook County, as well as to the local newspapers in support of the project (hint – for some guidance on letters to the editor – read this).

Opponents of the project are concerned about a lek of Sage Grouse, comprised of about 10 birds.  Sadly, if global warming continues at its current rate, we could lose these Sage Grouse, and probably many more species, due to changing habitats.  Recently, a study was published which shows that old growth timber in the Pacific Northwest are dying due to warming temperatures.  Are we willing to stop this renewable energy project to a few Sage Grouse, while we end up losing Spotted Owls?

This is our call to action to you, our reader.  What will you do to support renewable energy projects like the West Butte Wind Project?  The time to act is now!

If you enjoyed this post, please subscribe to get daily updates!

Related posts:

1. Get a Wind Project Approved in Oregon
2. Renewable Projects in Local Goverments Hands