For Release: Thursday, March 5, 2009
DEC Invites Public Comments on Hounsfield Wind Farm D.E.I.S.
Public Meeting Slated for May 18; Comments Accepted Through May 29
The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) has released a draft assessment of the possible impacts of the Hounsfield Wind Farm project proposed for Galloo Island in eastern Lake Ontario. The Draft Environmental Impact Statement (DEIS) includes detailed assessments of a number of potential impacts including water resources, wildlife habitat, agricultural resources, public safety and visual resources.
The project, proposed by Upstate New York Power Corp. of West Seneca, N.Y., would consist of 84 wind turbine generators to produce 252 megawatts or less of electricity, located on Galloo Island approximately 12 miles west of Sackets Harbor.
An environmental impact statement (EIS) systematically considers the full range of potential environmental impacts along with other aspects of project planning and design, including social and economic considerations. An EIS must assess potential impacts, evaluate alternatives and discuss mitigation measures.
DEC is inviting public comments on the DEIS. It is available online at www.dec.ny.gov/permits/6061.html#windfarm. Also, copies are available for review at the:
--Hounsfield Town Clerk's office, 18774 County Route 66, Salt Point Rd., Watertown.
-- Hay Memorial Library, 105 Broad St., Sackets Harbor.
-- Henderson Free Library, 8939 State Route 178, Henderson.
Written comments will be accepted through May 29 and should be sent to Stephen Tomasik, NYS DEC, Division of Environmental Permits, 625 Broadway, 4th Floor, Albany, NY, 12233-1750. Comments can also be sent via fax (518-402-9168) or e-mail: smtomasi@gw.dec.state.ny.us.
In addition, DEC has scheduled a public meeting on the project for May 18 at the Hounsfield Town Court Building, 411 West Washington St., Sackets Harbor. There will be two sessions, at 3 p.m. and 7 p.m.
