Bruce Beach Cottagers' Association

TURBINES: Cottagers are concerned about damage to lakeshore, tourism

By JONATHAN SHER, THE LONDON FREE PRESS Last Updated: August 20, 2010 7:37am

Ontario’s Natural Resources Ministry is considering constraints on offshore wind farms but it’s not clear the limits will appease a wave of protest from those living along Lake Huron.

The ministry published a draft policy this week that, if adopted, might exclude from development areas in the lake where there are:

• boating lanescore 
• commercial fishing 
• sensitive ecology 
• important recreational uses 
• cultural heritage 
• natural-gas activity 

There also may be limits on development in inland lakes and other water bodies. The proposed limits drew a quick and co-ordinated response from Southwestern Ontario MPPs who’ve been criticized by constituents for doing little to create safeguards against land-based and offshore wind turbines. …continue reading »