The Revitalist

The draft environmental impact report for Cape Wind is out, and the project gets the all clear. The report looks at the proposed wind farm's impact on noise, coastal vegetation, wildlife, fisheries, tourism and aviation, among others. A "moderate" impact on birds was determined, but the report concluded that these impacts could be mediated as the project goes forward. Only one "major" impact was noted—the ocean view from boats will be impeded. Disappointed opponents of the project were hoping that the impact report would give them renewed ammunition, especially with respect to the impact on wildlife. The President of Cape Wind said, "Any rational observer will understand that this project is not going to produce a negative environmental impact. . . . This report validates that this is the right project in the right place at the right time."