Comment ID: 210709 Let me…

Comment ID: 210709

Let me say first of all, that I appreciate that you are taking time to read my note. I will attempt to keep it brief but not without stating our concerns as rural residents of Chatham-Kent. We live within the Otter Creek Wind Farm boundaries and are concerned about the environmental impact that these turbines will have on one of our most precious resources. We are aware of the number of wells that have been negatively impacted by the turbines of the Dover area. We too live on land that sits above the Kettle Point black shale layers. We have seen the water samples that not only look bad but smell unacceptable. Black water is unacceptable for any use – household, livestock, irrigation and the long term fallout will be devastating to the health of our entire region. Our health region is already under-serviced and the impact of this water, will have long reaching effects that our health care system simply cannot absorb. Our property was purchased with retirement years in mind and hopefully some financial security should other living arrangements become necessary. However, with a 642’ turbine poised in our skyline, property values will drop, eroding our future finances as well. Our well has served this home for over 60 years without a problem with supply, safety or sediment. We intend for this to continue. Noise pollution is also of concern to us. My husband already suffers hearing loss and tinnitus and research tells me that the low frequency vibrations will also impact his quality of life. This too in unacceptable. I believe that while wind energy has it’s place, this particular bedrock seems to be a very poor choice for location. I am also aware that the bird population will suffer as they do in other areas. The height of the tower near us will also impact the emergency helicopter route that services the Wallaceburg area. This is unacceptable. I’ve watched as the ministry of the environment made special pools for pond life and netting erected to prevent birds from nesting under bridges while bridges were repaired and the possibility of interrupting waterways existed. How can it be possible that so little care is extended to the lifeline of clean water? I urge you to reconsider the REA for the Otter Creek wind farm . The impact on the ecosystem of an entire region depends on your decision in this important matter.