The West Michigan Wind Assessment stakeholder group and project team have been meeting to learn about the issues surrounding wind farms including; environmental, social, economic, aesthetic and policy development.
As a stakeholder, the Muskegon Chamber is engaging in the dialogue and research to use available science report fact-based findings on the impact of on-shore and off-shore wind development.
From the West Michigan Wind Assessment website…
“The deployment of thousands of wind energy facilities required to meet various renewable energy targets will bring changes to the nation’s landscapes, communities, and economies.
The intent of this integrated assessment project is to comprehensively analyze the benefits and challenges to wind energy development in one particular region of coastal West Michigan, including Oceana, Muskegon, Ottawa and Allegan counties.
By combining science and public participation, our integrated assessment will empower citizens and local governments to make informed decisions about wind energy facilities in their communities. Our project will enhance local capacity to mitigate conflicts surrounding wind energy development, and will help Michigan achieve its ten-percent renewable energy target in a manner that is environmentally, economically, and socially appropriate.”
Read the first Issue Brief here: http://www.gvsu.edu/wind/
