A request has been made to the Corps of Engineers to install a data gathering tower outside of Massachusetts state waters in Nantucket Sound. This will be related to the larger “Wind Farm” project which will require an Environmental Impact Statement and separate permitting. John Spillane, Legislative Counsel for MMTA, requested an extension of the public notice comment period for the Data Tower application until June 1, 2002. As of January 2nd, this had not been approved.

John had requested more information from a contact in Sweden who had extensive experience with similar wind farm projects in Europe. At a recent MMTA Board Meeting, he was requested to investigate alternative locations.

Obviously, while this is a “green" energy alternative, the effects on the environment and recreational boating need to be addressed. The proposers, - Cape Wind Associates of Boston and South Yarmouth - have a website at www.capewind.org.

A group called The Alliance to Protect Nantucket Sound also has a website at www.windmillscapecod.org.

MMTA is hopeful of having a presentation made to the Association on Cape Cod. We will advise the location in the near future and hope all interested parties can attend.