November, 2007: Farmers consider tapping into wind power

A group of about 20 local farmers and others gathered at the Cornell Cooperative Extension on Loomis-Ferndale Road in Liberty on November 21 for a presentation arranged by the Sullivan Alliance for Sustainable Development on the use of small windmills for facilities such as farms and school districts.

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August, 2007:SASD JOBS PROPOSAL FOR SULLIVAN COUNTY

Few issues are as central to the health and well-being of communities as gainful employment. Edward Abbey has written “The poor are materialistic. It takes money to be romantic�. How to provide that gainful employment while addressing a central flaw of many conventional business models is the challenge of our time. Acknowledgment of the displacement effect that relies upon causing hardship elsewhere, so that others can prosper is becoming more difficult to ignore. Whether the issue is global climate change or health problems associated with “business as usual�, these are difficult challenges that require our thoughtful deliberation for their resolution.

Sullivan Alliance for Sustainable Development (SASD) sees a bright future for Sullivan County if we can think creatively and capitalize on the assets which are unique to our region. We are strong advocates for renewable energy, and believe that the time is right for seizing the employment opportunities inherent in the energy management field. Seizing these opportunities will maximize the benefits to our communities, while minimizing our impacts elsewhere. These opportunities go beyond renewable energy applications, and our county government is poised to play an important role in catalyzing benefits for county residents. By leveraging the assets of county government, our elected leaders can provide a solid platform from which to launch a responsible and productive living wage jobs initiative for our county. SASD is excited at the prospect of working with Sullivan County Government in order to make this a reality, and has drafted a Jobs Proposal for submission to the county.

If you are interested in reviewing this proposal, please email us at mailto:info@sasdonline.org.

May, 2007: SASD is glad to report that the Town Board's of Callicoon, Freemont and Rockland have all voted unanimously to invite wind developers to prepare feasibility studies on major wind farms. By September, it is expected that the first phase of the feasibility studies will be completed. We continue to pursue solar electric installations for not-for profits, municipal buildings and schools. A major initiative in developing energy conservation and renewable energy projects for farmers has been started. Events will begin in the fall 2007.