Our Position on Wind Energy in Kansas
By Ron Klataske, Executive Director
Originally presented October 2, 2002

Part One
Introduction
The Last Stand of the Tallgrass Prairie
The Role of the Rancher
Our Pride in the Scenic Beauty of the Flint Hills
Part Two
The Siting Protocols Needed for Wind Development
Important Bird Areas to Protect
Part Three
Habitat Fragmentation is a Major Threat
Part Four
The Minimum Standards Needed

Part Four
The Minimum Standards Needed
As a matter of policy, the State of Kansas should reserve the tax incentives for facilities that are sited in places that do not substantially diminish ecological, aesthetic, cultural and economic values of public importance.  The State of Kansas should have some sort of planning process and criteria that will protect other resources and give all companies an opportunity to approach development on a level playing field.  As it stands now, "run and gun" companies can target facilities in places that would be avoided by conscientious companies that want to be good corporate citizens and partners in protection of pristine prairie landscapes.
 
Planning protocols should include opportunities for neighbors, other residents of the local area and state, and people representing all interests to express their views and provide input regarding siting decisions.  Property taxes should be established so that counties and school districts would be on a level playing field and benefit from developments in their respective areas. 
 
And, the property and other values of adjacent landowners should be considered by companies and county planning boards.  Ideally, landowners should be fully compensated for the loss of these real and measurable values.  Otherwise it is a "taking" that disregards the stewardship of generations.
 
As it stands now, a few county planning boards and the most conscientious companies will have to set the standards for the industry. 
 
As a partner with the wind industry, one of the goals of Audubon of Kansas is to formally identify the major important bird areas and habitats of the state.  Concurrently, this information will help to establish areas where wind energy developments will not be expected to create significant flyway hazards or habitat fragmentation conflicts with species of special concern.  This will serve as a resource for development companies so they can consider protection of avifauna along with other factors when making decisions.  There are undoubtedly some potential sites within most physiographic provinces of the state that could be considered for siting of wind facilities.
 
We look forward to opportunities to work with you and/or to partner with others in the conservation of Kansas wildlife (native plant and animal communities) and natural landscapes.  Thank you for your consideration of our concerns.