Subject: Wind Turbine Update

December 22, 2009

To: Gustavus Students, Faculty, and Staff
From: President Ohle

As you may know, the College has aspired for some years to construct a wind turbine on campus. Such a step would afford an important learning opportunity and make a clear statement about our collective commitment to renewable energy. Many of you have supported this effort and have been engaged in the process through its various phases over time.

I write today to share an update that may come as a disappointment to you, as it does to me.

At its meeting last night, the Nicollet County Board of Adjustment and Appeals turned down the College’s request for a variance to the County’s ordinance prohibiting wind turbine construction within half a mile of residential property.

Dr. Chuck Niederriter, Dr. Bob Douglas, Dr. Jim Dontje, Ken Westphal, Warren Wunderlich, and others contributed to a strong presentation of our case. Unfortunately, however, the decision was not made in our favor.

Despite this setback, we will continue to explore opportunities to further manifest our commitment to environmental sustainability here on campus.