Wind farm will harm Little Galloo bird life
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 5, 2009
While the Galloo Island Wind Farm project seems to be moving slowly along, I am writing on behalf of those who cannot, the birds.
Very close to Galloo Island is 43-acre Little Galloo Island. This, along with Gull Island and two small sites on Galloo Island, is designated the "Lake Ontario Bird Conservation Area" by the state Department of Environmental Conservation. These islands are one of the premier colonial waterbird nesting areas in North America. On Little Galloo is found probably the largest colony of ring-billed gulls in North America. Also found there is one of just two confirmed nesting sites in New York state for Caspian terns. These are designated by the state Department of Environmental Conservation a "species of greatest conservation need." Herring gulls and great black-backed gulls nest there as do double-crested cormorants.
Nearby construction activity, increased water traffic and the presence of 77 wind turbines will have a negative impact on these Little Galloo colonial nesters as well as migrating waterfowl. Collisions are inevitable.
While an increase in revenue may result for the town of Hounsfield, we may damage one of our important natural areas. I hope serious efforts continue to be made to monitor the impact of this project.
Mary Zimmer
The writer is also a resident of the town of Hounsfield and member of the North Country Bird Club and Onondaga Audubon Society.
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