Mike Carlson of the USDA, Eastern Plains RC&D in Sidney, MT, and New Harvest Energy will be making a presentation entitled "Wind Development in Eastern Montana". Mike has worked for many years to help increase awareness of the wind development opportunities available in the Eastern part of the state. His main focus has been on assisting rural landowners to diversify their economic opportunities by developing their wind resource.
The presentation will be held Thursday, October 16th from 2 pm - 4 pm in UC Room 333, third floor of the University Center on the Mountain Campus.
Mike's Description of the Presentation:This presentation will discuss the tremendous wind resource we have in this state and especially in the rural areas. I will discuss the tools and techniques we need to use to investigate this wind resource and the research data that needs to be done first. I will present the four major challenges this state has to overcome to fully develop our wind energy projects. I will show some of the grass roots research being done in the eastern part of Montana and the impressive results. The many benefits of wind development to our small counties to improve our tax base and future jobs in this emerging energy field will be discussed. My hope is to stimulate the university system to help with research and development of Montana's wind for future jobs and improved economic development. I also will stress the need for enhanced educational opportunities through our community and major colleges in this state for wind energy development.
