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Negative Effect Negated by Data by Doug Miller The Columbian, August 27, 2009

As public power utilities, Grays Harbor PUD, Pacific County PUD, Clallam County PUD, and Mason County PUD No. 3, along with project developer Energy Northwest, are committed to doing what's best for our communities and the environment. A July 28 story, "Proposed wind project could imperil murrelet," highlighted concerns about the potential impact of a planned wind project on a threatened species of bird, the marbled murrelet. As partners in this endeavor, we support the Radar Ridge Wind Project in Pacific County, both as an economically wise and ecologically friendly investment.

Since the beginning stages of Radar Ridge -- a project that will provide clean, renewable energy to satisfy I-937 requirements and drive economic development -- our utilities have employed an environmentally responsible approach to ensure any ecological impacts are known and minimized. Studies by independent experts provide convincing evidence Radar Ridge will not negatively affect nearby sensitive wildlife, including the murrelet. Radar survey data indicate murrelet flight over the site is generally infrequent and at a high altitude well above the turbines.

As general manager of Pacific County PUD, I can attest we value our environment and are committed to protecting it as we work to bring clean, renewable energy to the more than 100,000 homes, businesses and industries we serve.