Ep. 42: Pattern Energy and the Intersection of Wind, Wires and Wildlife

Anyone who has driven through New Mexico recently has seen the large installations of wind turbines popping up across the landscape. If you've been next to a semi-truck carrying a single blade for use on one of those turbines you can appreciate the massive size of these windmills. These modern structures are drastically different from the old, rickety, wooden stands that might stretch 40' into the air and support a metal bladed pinwheel designed to pump water from the ground. These modern, power-producing, engineering marvels have caused concern for wildlife enthusiasts since their introduction. Pattern Energy is one of the largest developers, owners, and operators of high-quality wind, solar, transmission, and energy storage projects in all of North America.  During this episode of the Ahi Va podcast Jesse Deubel sits down with Adam Cernea Clark who's the Director of Permitting & Policy Strategy, as well as Quentin Hays who is a Senior Wildlife Ecologist and the Wildlife and Renewables Program Director for GeoSystems Analysis, Inc. The trio does a deep dive into how Pattern Energy continues to address the concerns of wildlife advocates in New Mexico as they work to power our future. The conversation drifts from the dangers of lead ammunition to the importance of wildlife crossings to reduce wildlife/vehicle collisions. There is plenty of discussion about bats and the agave plants they pollinate. This episode is full of valuable information and it just might change the way you look at wind turbines? Enjoy the listen!