In a recent government meeting, members of Citizens Against Wind Turbines in Lake Erie voiced strong opposition to proposed wind turbine projects in the lake, citing environmental concerns and potential risks to public health. The group, which has been active for 14 years, emphasized their commitment to preserving Lake Erie, highlighting findings from two NYSERDA reports from 2011 and 2022 that deemed the installation of wind turbines in the lake \"not feasible.\"

David Adrian, an aquatic biologist and charter captain, presented technical details about the proposed project, which could involve over 100 wind turbines, some exceeding 1,000 feet in height, placed as close as 0.6 miles apart. Adrian raised alarms about the potential disturbance of lake sediments, which could release heavy metal toxins into the water, threatening the drinking supply for approximately 11 million people.

The group also expressed concerns about the economic implications of the project, noting that the cost of energy from these turbines could rise significantly, contradicting the initial projections. They pointed out that the environmental impacts remain largely unknown, with no comprehensive studies conducted on underwater archaeology or the ecological consequences of such installations.

In addition to environmental and economic issues, the meeting highlighted the potential harm to local wildlife, including migratory birds and bats, as well as the risk of lubricant leaks from the turbines affecting water quality. The group has been actively campaigning for local towns to pass resolutions opposing the project, with a significant number already in support.

Despite the findings of the NYSERDA studies, there are ongoing discussions about smaller pilot projects, which the group argues could lead to irreversible damage to the lake. They are urging local governments to take a stand against the turbines and plan to present their resolutions to state officials, emphasizing their grassroots approach to protecting Lake Erie.