GOV. BRAD HENRY
The Edmond Sun
EDMOND —
Oklahoma’s potential to produce wind power is abundant, and new wind farms in development prove that our current wind energy production is only the beginning. Wind energy offers great economic development opportunities for Oklahoma, while also producing clean and renewable energy.
As we develop this vital state resource, though, care is being giving to protect Oklahoma wildlife that may be affected by wind farm development.
In particular, the lesser prairie chicken, a species that is a candidate for federal listing as endangered, lives in many areas suitable for wind farms. The lesser prairie chicken avoids tall structures that can serve as perches for predators. Construction of wind turbines and power transmission lines can cause habit loss for a species already facing challenges. Federal listing of this once widespread game bird would present major challenges to future wind development in our state.
The responsible development of wind power in Oklahoma led to the creation of the Oklahoma Lesser Prairie Chicken Spatial Planning Tool. The model was developed by Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation, the Oklahoma Secretary of the Environment, the U.S. Department of Fish and Wildlife and other agencies and organizations.
The tool will help determine areas where development will least impact the lesser prairie chicken and help set priorities for areas of prairie chicken habitat restoration and recovery.
Partners from the private sector also play an important role in this mission. Last year, OG&E invested $3.75 million to offset the impact of the OU Spirit wind farm on local wildlife. The funds will be used by the Department of Wildlife Conservation to protect, enhance and restore habitat through acquisition and conservation agreements.
Green energy promises greater energy independence for the U.S., a cleaner environment and an economic boost for Oklahoma. Developing these resources, though, must be done responsibly. With state and federal agencies, conservation groups and private industry working together, we can ensure that Oklahoma’s precious natural resources, and its abundant wildlife, will be enjoyed by generations to come.
GOV. BRAD HENRY may be reached via his Web site at www.governor.ok.gov.
