OBSERVER Staff Report

Those opposed to wind turbines in Lake Erie are expected to make waves at Cabana Sams in Sunset Bay this morning.

A rally with signs and banners against any windmills going into the Great Lakes will be starting at 11 a.m. Recently, the Erie County Legislature heard motions spearheaded by Legislators John Mills and Lynne Dixon against the proposal after the town of Evans was approached by the Diamond Generating Corp.

In August, officials also heard from Rich Davenport of the Erie County Fisheries board regarding its concerns at a Lake Erie Experience VIP fishing day. He noted that windmills may promote a form of green energy, but those towers could have long-lasting effects on the waters and the fish that live there.

“Healthy life in a fresh-water fishery equals healthy fresh water,” Davenport said. “There is nothing more important on planet Earth than fresh water to all of us.”

Joining the group in this rally today will be New York state Sen. Chris Jacobs, Chautauqua County Executive George Borrello, and Erie County Legislator John Mills.

On the flip side, the League of Women Voters will be hosting a session advocating for the turbines. Ellen Banks of the Sierra Club will be the speaker at the Clarion Hotel Marina and Conference Center.

She hopes to dispel some of the myths coming from those against the projects. “They are not full of oil that leaks into land and water,” she wrote. “They do not use harmful amounts of concrete. Energy costs to construct them are compensated by six months or less of operation. They produce large quantities of power and are the largest power source for several states and countries. All wind farm companies must put money aside to deconstruct/replace them if necessary.

The program will be Nov. 6 11:30 a.m. Lunch is available at cost of $15. Please contact Nick Schoenl at 679-1258 if interested.