The Green Mountain National Forest (GMNF) recently released for public comment its Supplemental Draft Environmental Impact Statement (SDEIS) for the proposed Deerfield Wind Project in Searsburg and Readsboro.
The Deerfield Wind Project is a proposal to construct and operate a wind energy facility on public lands, adjacent to the existing Searsburg facility currently operated by Green Mountain Power on private land.
The U.S. Forest Service is evaluating several alternatives in detail, including the original proposal for a 17 turbine project. Two other action alternatives are also being considered. They include development of a seven turbine project on the ridge east of Route 8, and development of a 15 turbine project that matches the Vermont Public Service Board-approved configuration.
The Forest Service can also take “no action” should it decide not to approve the project. The Forest Service must now conclude its National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) review and decide whether or not to allow the project to be built on the Green Mountain National Forest.
Colleen Madrid, Forest Supervisor for the Green Mountain and Finger Lakes National Forests, is expected to issue her decision on the project this summer.
The Green Mountain National Forest has scheduled an “open house” meeting on Tuesday, Jan. 25, from 6-8 p.m., at Readsboro Central School, 301 Phelps Lane, to gather additional comments from the public. At the meeting, the public will have an opportunity to view project maps, visual simulations and pick up copies of the SDEIS.
To view the SDEIS, visit bit.ly/ficn96.
The U.S. Forest Service will receive public comment on this project through Feb. 18.