Winding Up

Winding up - as in "wind" energy, and "winding" up this class. Ahhh, the English language. I liked the session we had on wind energy. Wind energy has always made me very curious. It seems like such an easy answer, it was good to hear some more facts about it. I am in favor of wind energy, even though the towers are big and conspicuous. I like the idea of wind farms... so that there won't be wind turbines everywhere you look, and we won't ruin all of our natural views. I really hope this form of energy takes off - that it becomes more affordable to build turbines and that more companies go into the wind energy business. Wouldn't it be great if every town had a wind farm to supply its own power? Crazy! I also like the thought of local and rural people having more of the smaller turbines, like the one at Reith Village. I've wanted one for years and it was good to learn about some of the criteria to watch out for, like the amount of space around the turbine that has to be kept clear in case it falls. I am a little worried about the noise pollution. I really like the turbine at Reith, but it can sound a bit like a little jet engine. I do want a quiet backyard....

As for winding up this class, whew! what a ride. I think this is a great class for this program. History and current issues are always shaping the face of environmental education as well as how the public perceives it. This class definitely brought me laughter, sometimes brought me tears, and most certainly brought me lots of information to expand my knowledge. Good class!