Apr 21, 2006 — This week, the Plattsburgh town council voted unanimously for a one-year moratorium on wind farms. There are a couple spots in the town where wind power production would be feasible. But no developer has approached officials with a project. Still, supervisor Bernie Bassett told David Sommerstein Plattsburgh wanted to move cautiously into the world of renewable energy. He says the turbines provoked more questions than answers.  Go to full article

Apr 20, 2006 — Schools across the North Country are trimming and tucking in anticipation of next month's budget votes. One district, however, is flush with money. Lowville Central Schools is awaiting a $445,000 check. It's the first of an annual tax payment from the 120-turbine Maple Ridge wind farm located nearby. The district expects another $2 million in January, and more than $3 million each following year. David Sommerstein spoke with Lowville superintendent Kenneth McAuliffe. He says the school board's developed an elaborate 15-year plan. It includes stabilizing the tax levy, saving for future capital costs, and reducing debt. Even after that, McAuliffe says there's $275,000 a year for other purchases.  Go to full article

Apr 17, 2006 — Two more North Country towns are embroiled in debate over industrial-size wind farms. In Cape Vincent, hours of public meetings have failed to yield setback requirements for a proposed 60-windmill farm near the St. Lawrence River. The town of Plattsburgh will consider a one-year moratorium on wind farms tonight.

In northern Clinton County, two projects promising almost 300 windmills are moving ahead. One of the companies held open houses last week to court supporters. Opponents have sued to halt the plans. As David Sommerstein reports, at stake are an economic windfall and a rural landscape that could be forever changed.  Go to full article

Mar 02, 2006 — New York State has pledged to get 25% of its electricity from renewable sources by 2013. 18% already comes from hydropower. Experts say most of the remaining 7% will come from the wind. And the North Country is poised to play a prime role. 120 turbines are already spinning out power on the Tug Hill Plateau. Two companies have plans to erect hundreds of turbines in Clinton and Franklin counties. And more prospecting is underway from Cape Vincent to Chateaugay. Wind farms can evoke strong reactions, often for aesthetic reasons. But anti-wind groups in the region have a long list of negatives that go far beyond the view. David Sommerstein looks at the issues.  Go to full article

Apr 20, 2005 — An influential conservation group has announced its opposition to a wind turbine farm in the town of Johnsburg. The Association for the Protection of the Adirondacks says the giant towers would harm scenery and spark a wave of new tower construction. Brian Mann has details.  Go to full article

Aug 04, 2003 — Lewis County lawmakers decided last week on a taxation agreement with Flat Rock Wind Power, moving construction of a wind farm one step closer. As Jody Tosti reports, if the project gets all the necessary approvals, the North Country would be home to the largest wind farm in the eastern United States.  Go to full article