Birds Need Responsible Renewable Energy

Dear Editor,

From the grassland dwelling Henslow's Sparrow to the treetop-hopping Cerulean Warbler, hundreds of bird species rely on Wisconsin's natural habitats. Science is showing us that climate change is the largest threat that birds face. A rapid transition to responsible renewable energy is needed to protect birds, other wildlife and our communities.  

The proposed Badger Hollow Wind Energy Center is an opportunity to address this challenge. The utility-scale wind energy facility in Iowa and Grant counties would generate up to 118 MW of clean energy.  

This project would be located near the Pecatonica River Prairie Important Bird Area, one of the state's last remaining intact grassland landscapes, which is critical for migratory and grassland birds like the Bobolink, Henslow's Sparrow and Upland Sandpiper. 

While all forms of energy—including wind power—have impacts on birds, by undertaking these projects with care and working closely with wildlife agencies and stakeholders, like Audubon, projects like this one can be built in areas that avoid and minimize impacts to birds and their habitat and provide benefits to birds and their habitats in the long term. 

The developer of Badger Hollow has engaged proactively with Audubon and other conservation stakeholders to incorporate science-based solutions in the planning and operation phases, and Audubon's feedback was included in the project's Environmental Assessment—that's important.  

Birds depend on significant climate action. When we undertake responsible renewable energy development, we begin to build the path forward towards a sustainable future that works alongside nature and its inhabitants. Audubon supports a project that balances benefits for climate, conservation and the community.  

- Brian Vigue, Policy Director of Freshwater, Audubon Great Lakes 

Emily Osborne-Kim

Senior Communications Manager, Advocacy

Audubon Great Lakes

Chicago, IL