Hi everyone
I am just writing as I am considering joining the RSPB, however I would first like to know the view on Wind Farms?
My Father lives in an area of Moorland called Llanllwni - in Carmarthenshire (SA40 9SJ) in mid West Wales.
It is rich in wild birds including Red Kites and Sky Larks, however there has recently been a proposal for a large scale Wind Farm in the area which I read can have a devastating affect on local bird populations.
"The wind turbines in Altamont Pass in California have on average killed 200-300 Redtail Hawks and 40-60 Golden Eagles each year, while it is estimated th...at 7000 migrating birds a year are killed at other wind turbine sites in Southern California (California Energy Commission). There are similar reports emerging from other wind farms around the UK." http://www.scoutmoor.com/facts.htm
Thanks
BR
Hi Barney,
Thanks for writing and I really hope you do decide to go on to support the RSPB's work as a member.
I can't comment on this particular case as it's not in the area I work (the English Midlands), so for a local view contact our Wales office to find out what involvement we've had in this proposal. A colleague of mine named James Byrne would be a good place to start. Try the Wales HQ on 029 2035 3000.
We know many people are concerned about wind farms and birds, and unfortunately our own views are not always correctly reflected in the media, so thanks for asking directly. To begin with, hopefully you'll find this page on our website of help regarding our position on wind farms:
http://www.rspb.org.uk/ourwork/policy/windfarms/index.aspx
Though I've not looked at the website you've pointed us to I get regular updates from our Conservation Science team on the latest research, guidance and best practice on birds and wind farms. I've not heard of any research on the impacts of wind farms in Britain that would place them anywhere near being in the same category as Altamont Pass, though there have been some that would harm wildlife, which we've often successfully opposed.
For a review of the research on impacts on red kites and other species believed to be sensitive to wind farm impacts, have a look at this which is also on our website:
http://www.rspb.org.uk/Images/EnglishSensitivityMap_tcm9-237359.pdf
The great majority of wind farms we hear about do not pose any significant threat to bird populations. However there have been some that we have objected to, most notably perhaps the Isle of Lewis wind farm in Scotland. Details about this high profile case can also be read on our website, along with other current wind farm casework we are fighting, at http://www.rspb.org.uk/ourwork/casework/energy.aspx.
Our work to protect the Isle of Lewis and other important places for birds around the UK relies on the support of people such as you, so I hope you'll go on to become a member soon.
Best wishes,
Colin