Guidelines for Wind Power and Wildlife in Washington State, USA

Abstract

The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) adopted wind power guidelines in 2002 to promote standardisation of the agency's responses to proposed wind energy projects in Washington State. While the purpose of the guidelines was to create consistency from the agency, some of the recommendations seemed overly stringent and unjustified to the wind industry. Recognising the implications of the guidelines on wind energy development in the State, the Renewable Northwest Project (RNP), along with industry members and their permitting consultants, successfully engaged the agency in a discussion to reach fair and consistent wind power guidelines. The account and methods of negotiation are detailed as an example for abating possible adverse avian and habitat environmental impact of wind farms. The three key areas of negotiation were: pre-permit environmental studies, wildlife and habitat mitigation, and an alternative fee-based mitigation option.