Public Comments For the New Comstock Wind Energy Project

Date: 11/26/2008 07:23 AM

cc: Amy Atwood <atwood@biologicaldiversity.org>

Subject: Constock stakeholder list

Please respond to Rob Mrowka <rmrowka@biologicaldiversity.org>

Please add me to your list of interested parties and send me any available information as to project location and other specifics. Will there be a project website established?

thank you, ~ rob

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Rob Mrowka
Center for Biological Diversity
Nevada Conservation Advocate
rmrowka@biologicaldiversity.org

Voice: 702-249-5821
Fax: 702-638-4261
Mail: 4261 Lily Glen Ct
North Las Vegas, NV 89032

We don't accomplish anything in this world alone... and whatever happens is the result of the whole tapestry of one's life and all the weavings of individual threads from one to another that creates something.
-- Sandra Day O'Connor

Please consider the environment before printing this email

11/26/2008 Paul Aguirre, NV Energy

"Aguirre, Paul" <PAguirre@nvenergy.com>

To: "newcomstockwind@blm.gov” <newcomstockwind@blm.gov>

Date: 11/26/2008 11:32 AM

Subject: Mailing List

Mr. Struble,

I am writing in response to your NOI for the Great Basin Wind New Comstock Wind Energy Project, and would like to be added to your mailing list please.

I would like to receive a hard copy and electronic copy of any documents associated with this project as they become available to the public.

Thank you,

Paul B. Aguirre
Staff Environmental Scientist
NV Energy, formerly Nevada Power Company
P.O. Box 98910 MS 30
Las Vegas, Nevada 89151-0001
702.402.2647 desk 702.236.8670 cell 702.402.2051 FAX
Diversity Champion - Centurions

11/26/2008 Gale Dupree, Nevada Wildlife Federation

"Gale Dupree" <ifish@earthling.net>

Date: 11/26/2008 08:39 PM

Subject: Comstock Wind EIS

Please add me to your mailing list.

Gale Dupree
Nevada Wildlife Federation
PO Box 428
Loyalton, 96118-0428

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12/01/2008 Angela Dykema, Third Planet Windpower, LLC

"Angela Dykema" <dykemaa@thirdplanetwind.com>

Date: 12/01/2008 11:23 AM

Subject: Addition to Mailing List

Hello,

I’d like to request to be added to the mailing list of interested parties please.

Thank you,

Angie

Angie Dykema
Project Development Associate
Third Planet Windpower, LLC
940 Southwood Blvd., Suite 201
Incline Village, NV 89451

Email: dykemaa@thirdplanetwind.com
Cell: 775-997-9950
Office: 775-833-9463
Fax: 775-833-9467

www.thirdplanetwind.com

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For the purposes of this email disclaimer, “Third Planet Windpower” may be Third Planet Windpower, LLC or any of its subsidiaries or affiliates. All electronic mail messages sent by Third Planet Windpower and any files transmitted with them (“the transmission”) are confidential intended solely for the addressee(s) and may be legally privileged and/or confidential. If you are not an intended recipient of the transmission, you must not use, disclose, copy, distribute or retain it or any part of it. If you have received the transmission in error, please notify the sender immediately and delete all copies from your computer system(s). Third Planet Windpower gives no warranty as to the accuracy or completeness of the transmission and accepts no responsibility for changes made after the sender has sent the transmission. Any opinion expressed in the transmission may be personal to the author, may not necessarily reflect the opinion of Third Planet Windpower and may be changed without notice.

12/01/2008 Jesus Martinez, Paiute Pipeline Company

"Jesus Martinez" <Jesus.Martinez@swgas.com>

To: <mstruble@nv.blm.gov>

Date: 12/01/08 04:25 PM

cc: "Craig Sisco" <Craig.Sisco@swgas.com>

Subject: Environmental Impact Statement for New Comstock project

Mark,

I received a letter today from our Right-of-Way Corporate Office in Las Vegas, where I was asked to contact you in order to provide information about the location of our facilities related to your project in Carson City, NV.

According to the letter, I assume this project proposes to re-route power transmission lines, could you please provide PDF maps of the project?.

Thank you.
Jesus Martinez
Paiute Pipeline Company
Engineering Department
775-887-2862
Jesus.Martinez@swgas.com

The information in this electronic mail communication contains confidential information which is the property of the sender and may be protected by the attorney-client privilege and/or attorney work product doctrine. It is intended solely for the addressee. Access to this e-mail by anyone else is unauthorized by the sender. If you are not the intended recipient, you are hereby notified that any disclosure, copying, or distribution of the contents of this e-mail transmission or the taking or omission of any action in reliance thereon or pursuant thereto, is prohibited, and may be unlawful. If you received this e-mail in error, please notify us immediately of your receipt of this message by e-mail and destroy this communication, any attachments, and all copies thereof. Thank you for your cooperation.

12/02/2008 Dan Schlenger

Dan Schlenger <xx@yy.zzz>

Date: 12/02/2008 09:55 AM

Subject: checking

Please respond to: xx@yy.zzz

Just checking this email before I attach my comments. The Appeal didn't have the complete address so I am guessing.

Dan Schlenger
Minden

12/03/2008 James Alcorn, AICP

"James Alcorn" <JamesA@quadknopf.com>

Date: 12/03/2008 07:53 AM

Subject: Wind Farm Proposal Near Virginia City

Being a planner I am 100% in favor of the proposed wind power turbines project on the mountains north of Carson City by Great Basin Wind LLC. This region, state and the nation need more clean energy projects to reduce our dependence upon foreign oil. Any potential negative visual impacts, as viewed by a few, are more than acceptable. Clean energy is the wave of the present not the wave of the future and we need to be ready to catch that wave as soon as it rolls in.

Thank you,

James S. Alcorn, AICP
Senior Associate Planner
8613 18th Hole Trail
Reno, NV 89523

12/03/2008 Marlaina Papal (CA Landscape Architect) and Don Cook

marlaina papal <aspenseer@yahoo.com>

Date: 12/03/2008 08:08 AM

Subject: Virginia city wind project

Hi, from Marlaina Pipal, and Don Cook,

We go to Virginia City to enjoy the history and culture, mustangs and scenery.

We understand the urge to provide energy sources other than petroleum projects.

However, we want to view maps and graphics of the project and proposed access roads, as well as of the volumes of grading, locations planned for roads etc. Also, I wonder if this will provide jobs and for how long for VC residents.

And, if you need a consultant in the planning and restoration process, please consider me and send me your RFP. I have experience with environmental planning and conflict resolution.

We plan to drive to V City this Saturday and Sunday and camp in our camper truck. Hopefully I'll see mustangs this time and enjoy music, people, the old buildings and costumes in town.

Thank you,

Marlaina Pipal
CA Landscape Architect
Certified Arborist
former Open Space and Park Planner for Marin and Sonoma Countiesf

phone 530-659-7066

12/05/2008 Scott Katherman, Military Attorney and SAP Contracting Officer

"Katherman, ScottSSG" <scott.katherman@us.army.mil>

To: <newcomstockwind@blm.gov>
Date: 12/05/2008 01:01 PM

Subject: Wind Power Comment (UNCLASSIFIED)

Classification: UNCLASSIFIED
Caveats: NONE

I herewith submit my comment on the Comstock Wind Energy Project.

As a long-time resident of the Reno area, and one who appreciates the historical value of Virginia City and the outlying areas, I understand the complaints of the residents of the aforementioned areas. However, notwithstanding the possible unsightly presence of the wind turbines, the time has come for Northern Nevada to make use of its unique geographic elements. This project needs to proceed forward. In fact, beyond the mere issue at hand, Northern Nevada should be taking better advantage of its geothermal, solar, wind and biomass opportunities. It has been stated by many thus far that the Reno-Carson City area could become self-sufficient insofar as energy is concerned by making rational use of its "green" opportunities.

Northern Nevada could become, with political, social and financial support, not only energy independent, but also fiscally benefitted. We have all the means necessary to harness our many types of alternative energy sources for our own energy needs; and we could easily sell the excess power to, for example, California. Jobs will be produced from this project. Tax revenue will, too. As our state, and specifically the north, runs into fiscal shortfalls, having to cut essentials such as education and social programs, increased income from the sale of power to energy-hungry states like California will have long-term benefits. Indeed, Northern Nevada could become an example to other parts of the country - another noteworthy pinnacle for this state.

To respond to those who fear aesthetic devaluation of the area, much can be done to minimize such an effect. Tower placement must be made in such a manner as to allow the towers to become PART of the landscape rather than an unwelcome addition to it. As odd as this may sound, engineers should be teamed with artists to develop such an homogenous landscape. Research should be conducted to determine if the color of the towers and blades can be altered from the normal white to something that blends into the surroundings.

Thus far the proposed placement intervals will mitigate harmful effects.

The arguments made by Great Basin Wind LLC concerning the protection of wildlife around the towers is rational and sufficient to meet regulatory requirements. The National Audubon Society has stated that the turbines would not pose serious problems to avian stakeholders.

As with any new project, there will be those who will disagree. And their points of disagreement must be recognized. However, the long-term benefits of this project should outweigh any grievances as to disrupted cell phone service, the slight noise produced by the turbines, and their alleged unsightliness. The benefit will be felt by all.

I for one am tired of always hearing why we cannot do something. Instead, let us state HOW we CAN make this project, and others, a reality.

Bona Fide,

Scott F. Katherman "Sid," Esq.
SAP Contracting Officer, GS-11
Military Attorney
SPS/PRWeb System Administrator
WAWF GAM
United States Property and Fiscal for NV
2452 Fairview Dr.
Carson City, NV 89701-6807
Tel. (775) 887-7869
Fax. (775) 887-7874

"Credo Quia Absurdum"

"I love deadlines. I like the whooshing sound they make as they fly by."
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"In saying what is obvious, never choose cunning. Yelling works better."
--Cynthia Ozick

"Atheism is a non-prophet organization."
--???

Classification: UNCLASSIFIED
Caveats: NONE

12/06/2008 Bruce Pfeiffer

"Bruce" <xx@yy.zzz>

Date: 12/06/2008 09:34 AM

Subject: Wind generators

Gentlemen,

I believe it would be a big mistake to ruin the view of the mountains west of Virginia City and north of Carson City, by putting unsightly wind generators there. There are areas like the Pine nut mountains where wind generators would not be as obnoxious.

Bruce Pfeiffer
Carson City

12/08/2008 Kevin Emmerich

"atomic toad ranch" <xx@yy.zzz>

To: <newcomstockwind@blm.gov>
Date: 12/08/2008 09:24 AM

Subject: New Comstock Wind Energy Project

Please respond to "atomic toad ranch" <xx@yy.zzz>

December 7, 2008

To Whom It May Concern:

I would like to submit these comments for issues to be included for the Bureau of Land Management [NV030-08-1430-ER; 09-08807; TAS: 14X1109]

Notice of Intent To Prepare an Environmental Impact Statement for the New Comstock Wind Energy Project, Nevada

The construction of an array of wind turbines on a Great Basin mountain ridge is a case study in environmental mayhem. Access roads must be bulldozed and blasted out and heavy equipment must be moved to mountain ridges. Thousands of acres of habitat must be cleared. Topsoil and large rocks must be blasted away and removed to level the ridgetop. The entire mountain ridge becomes a vast construction site up to 15 or 20 miles long. Large foundations (over 60 feet square) are dug and blasted out, and thousands of yards of concrete are trucked up the mountain and poured. Oversize trucks then begin delivering the column and blade sections and giant cranes are moved from site to site as the structures go up.

After construction, security fences are installed and patrolled. Massive erosion and sediment runoff from what is essentially a mountaintop removal job fill drainages. The effect on wildlife is catastrophic. Eagles, hawks, songbirds and bats which migrate along ridgetops are chopped to pieces by the thousands. Habitat fragmentation and the relentless noise cause habitat loss far beyond the actual acreage affected. Large mammals are driven out.

Wind farms will virtually destroy the lives of families who live near them. The constant noise, strobe lights and slowly turning blades create an alien world that permeates all daily activities. Many will not be able to leave, since their property will be significantly devalued. Outdoor activities in the area of giant spinning turbines will be a strange experience, to say the least.

When wind developers target a community they typically employ three very effective strategies. First, they cleverly use their “green” facade to gain acceptance by local politicians, environmentalists and an uninformed public. Second, knowing that few people understand the complexity of wind power issues, they make unsupportable claims. Finally, if the first two don’t work, they garner support from locals by essentially buying them off – with taxpayers’ money! Other than a handful of property owners who will make a few thousand dollars a year leasing their land for wind turbines, the only people who will benefit are the out of- state wind developers and their wealthy investors who are hoping we are too foolish to realize that we are once again about to be exploited.

1. Impacts to wildlife.

The EIS should address the full impacts to all wildlife including non threatened and endangered species.

These include:

Pygmy rabbit
Townsend's big eared bat
Sage Grouse
Fringed myotis
Little brown myotis
Preble's shrew
Brazillian free tailed bat
Bald eagle
Golden eagle
Swainson's hawk
Burrowing owl

Wind farms are known to kill birds sometimes reducing populations up to 40 percent. There is no way to minimize this impact. The BLM should not allow such a large project that will cause so much destruction. This impact to the ecology is too big.

There is also recent data that shows that wind farms disturb the sonar of bats and kill many individuals. Again, there is no way to stop this.

Other wildlife affected will be big game such as mule deer, pronghorn and elk.

2. Rare plants. The disturbance caused from this project will obviously destroy millions of plants in the process of destruction. A full study of rare and sensitive plants needs to be conducted.

3. Wetlands and riparian areas. Will and riparian areas be disturbed? If so, BLM should consider stopping the project.

4. How much water will be required to build and maintain the project? Will it be used for dust control? Will there be other needs for water? Where will this water come from? What impacts will this have on the local environment and people?

5. Archeological sites. How many of these sites will be destroyed? Are any of them sacred to the local Native Americans in the area?

6. Native American interests: Are any of these lands sacred to local Indian tribes?.ce.hesoaogtgrnt pttt slroc caaere lhe. BLM should not write the scenery off as "class 4 or class 3". People should be allowed to decide this for themselves.

8. How visible will this wind farm be from the Virginia City Ghost Town? This could impact, degrade and change the character of the area forever.

9. Recreation and Access. How much of this land will be off limits to hunters, hikers and others who have used these public lands for years?

Thank you for this chance to submit comments.

Sincerely,

Kevin Emmerich
P.O. Box 70
Beatty, Nevada 89003
xx@yy.zzz

12/08/2008 Laura Cunningham

Laura Cunningham <xx@yy.zz>

Date: 12/08/2008 10:46 AM

Subject: wind power comments

December 7, 2008

To Whom It May Concern:

I would like to submit these comments for issues to be included for the Bureau of Land Management [NV030-08-1430-ER; 09-08807; TAS: 14X1109] Notice of Intent To Prepare an Environmental Impact Statement for the New Comstock Wind Energy Project, Nevada The construction of an array of wind turbines on a Great Basin mountain ridge is a case study in environmental mayhem. Access roads must be bulldozed and blasted out and heavy equipment must be moved to mountain ridges. Thousands of acres of habitat must be cleared. Topsoil and large rocks must be blasted away and removed to level the ridgetop. The entire mountain ridge becomes a vast construction site up to 15 or 20 miles long. Large foundations (over 60 feet square) are dug and blasted out, and thousands of yards of concrete are trucked up the mountain and poured. Oversize trucks then begin delivering the column and blade sections and giant cranes are moved from site to site as the structures go up.After construction, security fences are installed and patrolled. Massive erosion and sediment runoff from what is essentially a mountaintop removal job fill drainages. The effect on wildlife is catastrophic. Eagles, hawks, songbirds and bats which migrate along ridgetops are chopped to pieces by the thousands. Habitat fragmentation and the relentless noise cause habitat loss far beyond the actual acreage affected. Large mammals are driven out.Wind farms will virtually destroy the lives of families who live near them. The constant noise, strobe lights and slowly turning blades create an alien world that permeates all daily activities. Many will not be able to leave, since their property will be significantly devalued. Outdoor activities in the area of giant spinning turbines will be a strange experience, to say the least.When wind developers target a community they typically employ three very effective strategies. First, they cleverly use their “green” facade to gain acceptance by local politicians, environmentalists and an uninformed public. Second, knowing that few people understand the complexity of wind power issues, they make unsupportable claims. Finally, if the first two don’t work, they garner support from locals by essentially buying them off – with taxpayers’ money! Other than a handful of property owners who will make a few thousand dollars a year leasing their land for wind turbines, the only people who will benefit are the out of- state wind developers and their wealthy investors who are hoping we are too foolish to realize that we are once again about to be exploited.

1. Impacts to wildlife. The EIS should address the full impacts to all wildlife including non threatened and endangered species. These include: Pygmy rabbitTownsend's big eared bat Sage Grouse Fringed myotis Little brown myotis Preble's shrew Brazillian free tailed bat Bald eagle Golden eagle Swainson's hawk Burrowing owl Wind farms are known to kill birds sometimes reducing populations up to 40 percent. There is no way to minimize this impact. The BLM should not allow such a large project that will cause so much destruction. This impact to the ecology is too big. There is also recent data that shows that wind farms disturb the sonar of bats and kill many individuals. Again, there is no way to stop this. Other wildlife affected will be big game such as mule deer, pronghorn and elk.

2. Rare plants. The disturbance caused from this project will obviously destroy millions of plants in the process of destruction. A full study of rare and sensitive plants needs to be conducted.

3. Wetlands and riparian areas. Will and riparian areas be disturbed? If so, BLM should consider stopping the project.

4. How much water will be required to build and maintain the project? Will it be used for dust control? Will there be other needs for water? Where will this water come from? What impacts will this have on the local environment and people?

5. Archeological sites. How many of these sites will be destroyed? Are any of them sacred to the local Native Americans in the area?

6. Native American interests: Are any of these lands sacred to local indian tribes?

7. Scenery. There is no way of getting around the impacts to the visual resources such a large project will have. BLM should not write the scenery off as "class 4 or class 3". People should be allowed to decide this for themselves.

8. How visible will this wind farm be from the Virginia City Ghost Town? This could impact, degrade and change the character of the area forever.

9. Recreation and Access. How much of this land will be off limits to hunters, hikers and others who have used these public lands for years? Thank you for this chance to submit comments.

Sincerely,

Laura Cunningham

P.O. Box 70

Beatty, Nevada

xx@yy.zzz

12/08/2008 James E and Angie B Page

xx@yy.zzz

Date: 12/08/2008 06:25 PM

To: newcomstockwind@blm.gov
Subject: windmills on McClellan Peak

December 8, 2008
James E and Angie B Page
435 First Street
Silver City, NV 89428

As residents of Silver City Nevada for the past 38 years, we look forward to viewing the windmills on the western peaks above our homestead. We feel that the view of the resurrected Viirginia and Truckee RR in the foreground and the operating windmills in the background will be a melding of history that will complement our view of the Comstock. It will be a significant as well as a positive attribute since the days of the gold rush. We give you our support on the project and trust the wind turbine project will come to fruition much as the V&T project has done.

Sincerely,

James Page
Angie Page

Make your life easier with all your friends, email, and favorite sites in one place. Try it now.

12/09/2008 Paul McKenzie, Sec/Treas Building and Construction Trades Council of No. NV.

<pmckenzie@bctnn.org>

Date: 12/09/2008 01:52 PM

To: <newcomstockwind@blm.gov>
Subject: New Comstock Wind Energy Project EIS

Please respond to <pmckenzie@bctnn.org>

(Embedded image moved to file: pic18538.gif)

Would you please put me on your mailing list for any pertinent information concerning this project:

Paul McKenzie
Building and Construction Trades
1819 Hymer Ave.
Sparks, NV 89431

pmckenzie@bctnn.org

Thank you,

Paul McKenzie
Sec/Treas
Building and Construction Trades Council of No. NV.
(775) 355-9200
(775) 313-7102 (cell)
(775) 255-9934 (fax)

12/09/2008 Frank W. and Coral E. Pedlar

"Frank Pedlar" <xx@yy.zzz>

Date: 12/09/2008 07:52 PM

Subject: Wind turbines

December 8, 2008
Frank W. and Coral E. Pedlar
400 American Ravine
Silver City, Nv.

I am a third generation and life long resident 60 year of Silver City, Nv.

We feel that supplying electricity this way is a no brainer. We give your are support.

Respectfully,
Frank Pedlar
Coral Pedlar
Cristee Davis Pedlar

12/10/2008 Kim Swearingen, Permaculture The Earth

Permaculture The Earth <strawboss@permaearth.org>

To: newcomstockwind@blm.gov
Date: 12/10/2008 06:43 PM

Subject: Wind Turbines

The news story I just watched encouraged people to share their opinion about installing wind turbines in the hills around Virginia City. My opinion is that we would be sorely remiss in our duty to implement renewable energy solutions if we didn't approve of this. The turbines won't be there forever so the fact that they visually offend some isn't an important concern. Right now there are only a few methods of renewable energy that are developed enough to be viable and we must take advantage of them. I'm definitely in favor of this project.

Sincerely,
Kim Swearingen

12/10/2008 Scott Sady

scott sady <xx@yy.zzz>

Date: 12/10/2008 06:44 PM

Subject: Virginia City Wind Project

I strongly support the step to begin our energy independence by constructing wind turbines on the hills above Virginia City. This area is perpetually windy and with the abundance of motorcycle and OHV trails, water towers and radio and TV antennas it strikes me as ludicrous the claims of some who say the towers will detract from the "historical feel" of the Comstock.

Just take care to place the towers on the ridges and not in town and no problem! We need more of these projects. My back yard is always windy. You are welcome to put turbines there as well.

scott sady
xx@yy.zzz
www.tahoelight.com

12/10/2008 Shannon McRae, PhD, Intuitive Consultant/Healer

"Shannon McRae, PhD" <shannon_mcrae@yahoo.com>

Date: 12/10/2008 06:44

Subject: Wind Energy

Please respond to shannon_mcrae@yahoo.com

Please - we need these windmills to cut costs. Let those who are opposed stay on the high rate and absorb the costs if the windmills are not up and functioning. The aesthetic beauty of the windmills far overrides the cost of continuing without windmills. Let the windmills come - the opponents can wear hats to cover the view if they don't want to see them.

Sincerely,

Shannon McRae

Shannon McRae, Ph.D.
Intuitive Consultant/Healer
PO Box 1716
Carson City, NV 89702
775.315.7232

12/10/2008 Steve Buckley

SteveB <xx@yy.zzz>

Date: 12/10/2008 06:52 PM

Subject: VC Wind Generators

Good evening.

I just heard on the news that you're taking input on the idea of a series of Wind Generators being placed on the Virginia Mountains above Virginia City.

I suppose I should start by saying that I live in Douglas County, so it's affect on my household will most likely be quite limited. Unless it's used as a basis for setting up towers here in Douglas, later on.

I think that the only thing I can really say is: What took you so long?

You're already aware of how much wind we get in this region, and with the present level of technology, I think it's an excellent idea. I for one would love to have you pay to mount some towers near where I live.

My only real concern would be the safety to the regional residents-- stability of the towers, noise to a lesser degree, and affects on wildlife. Since we're known to have dramatic winds, I'll only ask that you make damn good and sure that the towers are anchored, and cannot fail from too much wind.

My next question is: How long before we get to get out our here in Douglas?

My extended family lives over in Livermore, just west of Tracy, CA. They've lived with the unsightly benefits of wind towers for decades now. While I'll agree they are unsightly at first, after a while they seem to become just another part of the landscape, and lose their sense of disgust in the view.

As for birds, please talk with the county officials over there to see how they deal with that.

I sure you get the approval for them.

Best Regards,

Steve B.
967 Sunview Ct.
Carson City, NV 89705-8076
xxx-xxx-xxxx

12/11/08 Jesus Martinez, Paiute Pipeline Company

"Jesus Martinez" <Jesus.Martinez@swgas.com>

To: <Mark_Struble@blm.gov>

Date: 12/11/08 12:39 PM

cc: "Craig Sisco" <Craig.Sisco@swgas.com>, "Lori Gomez" <Lori.Gomez@swgas.com>

Subject: Re: Environmental Impact Statement for New Comstock project

Mark,

I'm wondering if you already received a better quality map for this project, the one posted does not have the detail we need to inform you about the location of our facilities.

Thank you.

Jesus.

>>> <Mark_Struble@blm.gov> 12/2/2008 8:08 AM >>>
http://www.blm.gov/nv/st/en/fo/carson_city_field/blm_programs/planning/new_comstock_wind.html

The link above will take you directly to the New Comstock Wind Project webpage. Here is the direct link to the pdf map (I hope to get a better quality map from the company in the next week!):

http://www.blm.gov/style/medialib/blm/nv/field_offices/carson_city_field/planning___environmental/new_comstock_wind.Par.82131.File.dat/New%20Comstock%20Wind%20Project%20Initial%20Map%20april2008.pdf

Mark Struble
Public Affairs Officer
BLM-Carson City District Office
5665 Morgan Mill Road, Carson City, NV 89701
(775) 885-6107 FAX: (775) 885-6147 Cell: (775) 721-8182
mstruble@nv.blm.gov

"Sunshine is the best disinfectant." Supreme Court Justice Louis D. Brandeis

"Jesus Martinez" <Jesus.Martinez@swgas.com>

To: <mstruble@nv.blm.gov>

Date: 12/01/08 04:25 PM

cc: "Craig Sisco" <Craig.Sisco@swgas.com>

Subject: Environmental Impact Statement for New Comstock project

Mark,

According to the letter, I assume this project proposes to re-route power transmission lines, could you please provide PDF maps of the project?.

Thank you.
Jesus Martinez
Paiute Pipeline Company
Engineering Department
775-887-2862
Jesus.Martinez@swgas.com

The information in this electronic mail communication contains confidential information which is the property of the sender and may be protected by the attorney-client privilege and/or attorney work product doctrine. It is intended solely for the addressee. Access to this e-mail by anyone else is unauthorized by the sender. If you are not the intended recipient, you are hereby notified that any disclosure, copying, or distribution of the contents of this e-mail transmission or the taking or omission of any action in reliance thereon or pursuant thereto, is prohibited, and may be unlawful. If you received this e-mail in error, please notify us immediately of your receipt of this message by e-mail and destroy this communication, any attachments, and all copies thereof. Thank you for your cooperation.

The information in this electronic mail communication contains confidential information which is the property of the sender and may be protected by the attorney-client privilege and/or attorney work product doctrine. It is intended solely for the addressee. Access to this e-mail by anyone else is unauthorized by the sender. If you are not the intended recipient, you are hereby notified that any disclosure, copying, or distribution of the contents of this e-mail transmission or the taking or omission of any action in reliance thereon or pursuant thereto, is prohibited, and may be unlawful. If you received this e-mail in error, please notify us immediately of your receipt of this message by e-mail and destroy this communication, any attachments, and all copies thereof. Thank you for your cooperation.

12/11/2008 David Bjorkman

"David Bjorkman" <xx@yy.zzz>

Date: 12/11/2008 04:29 PM

Subject: New wind turbine project

I live in Reno, so this project does not affect me directly, but after reviewing the maps I feel it is a good project with just a couple of changes. I used to sit on the Mule Deer Foundation Board of Directors so I am sensitive to the needs of wildlife and feel there is anyways a balance.

On the map, it looks like only about 3 of the proposed sites are within a mile and within sight of Virginia City. So my recommendation would be to move these three to the opposite side (to the west) of the ridge, which is where the wind comes from anyway, and that should satisfy 90% of the complaints. The rest of the towers are too far away to notice. Let’s make sure they revegitate any disturbed soil (forest koscia would be best) and get on with it.

David Bjorkman
xx@yy.zzz

12/12/2008 Eric Froehlich

Eric Froehlich <xx@yy.zzz>

Date: 12/12/2008 06:09 AM

Subject: McLellan Peak is a rare special site to launch hang gliders

   I urge you to NOT allow the creation of the proposed windmill project at the expense of this special and important hang gliding paragliding site.

   McLellan Peak has been used as a hang gliding and paragliding launch site for decades. It' s uniquely situated location and contours provide a safe accessible place to foot launched aircraft. For me, personally, it was my first introduction to mountain flying and a place where I could do it safely. It has been used for regional championships and is located in a ideal locations for allowing pilots to fly 100+ mile flights along the Sierras and mountainess regions towards the east in Nevada with flights extending as far as Elko.

Though I am entirely for green power, McLellan Peak is not as critical for windmills as it is for hang gliding. Windmills though often located on hills and ridges are often as well located on the flats, as they are, and can be found in the SF delta. There only critcal need is constant wind. For hang gliding, though wind and its direction are important, the slope and shape of the hill are critical as well, for not only ridge soaring but safe launches and reasonable safe glides to an accessible landing zones. We pilots are regular visitors to Washoe Valley and provide commerce to both it and Carson City. From the use of grocery stores, aumotive services, hotels and restaurants to being regular patrons to Washoe Lake Campground. I again urge you to NOT allow the creation of this windmill project at the expense of this special and important hang gliding paragliding site.

     Sincerely,

     Eric Froehlich

     xxx-xxx-xxxx
     5450 Monterey Rd. / Space 187
     San Jose, CA
     95111

12/12/2008 Bob Kautz, Kautz Environmental Consultants, Inc.

"Bob Kautz" <kec.kautz@sbcglobal.net>

Date: 12/12/2008 09:12 AM

Subject: Comstock Wind Power

Mark,

Please add my name to the list of interested persons for the Comstock Wind Power project.

Thank you,

Bob Kautz,

Kautz Environmental Consultants, Inc.,

5200 Neil Roud, Suite 200,

Reno, NV 89502.

12/12/2008 Leo Jones

Leo Jones <eagleo@comcast.net>

To: newcomstockwind@blm.gov
Date: 12/12/2008 09:49 AM

Subject: New Comstock Wind Energy Project - impact upon hang gliding site

Dear Sir,

I am a hang glider pilot, and I am writing to express my concerns about the proposed wind turbine development on McClellan Peak, north of Carson City, Nevada.

While I am a supporter of the development of alternative energy sources, I am very concerned that this project, as shown on your map, will almost certainly eliminate the use of McClellan peak as a hang gliding site.

I have been a hang glider pilot for 30 years, and have flown many times from McClellan peak. Hang gliding's biggest problem is simply the lack of suitable hills from which to launch - they are few and far between, and almost entirely restricted to those hills on public lands. McClellan peak is one of the best sites for hang gliding for hundreds of miles around. Pilots travel long distances to fly there, and flights of hundreds of miles have been made from there. Loss of this site would be a major blow to our sport - there is simply nowhere else for us to fly in this entire region that is suitable, given the prevailing westerly winds.

I do hope that if this project goes forward, that it does so in a manner that leaves us room to take off and fly safely, and access will be provided to the hang gliding community to do so.

Yours faithfully,

M. Leo Jones,
5930 Yerba Buena Road,
Santa Rosa, CA 95409

USHPA # 66774

12/14/2008 Catherine Hixson

xx@yy.zzz

Date: 12/14/2008 06:11 PM

Subject: Virginia City, NV., please no windfarm!

Please do not destroy the scenic beauty of Virginia City, Nevada by installing wind turbines above the town. Wind turbines are unsightly and should be placed far away from tourist attractions.

Catherine Hixson
P.O. Box 2182
Fernley, NV 89408

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12/15/2008 Robert Frenchu

"Robert Frenchu" <xx@yy.zzz>

Date: 12/15/2008 04:53 AM

Subject: In Favor of Wind Project

I'm in favor of the Comstock Wind Project.

I don't think it will have much impact on the historical district at all. Opponents are afraid of seeing windmills, yet don't they complain about 21st century automobiles.

Windmills are a lot prettier than old mining dumps and tailings piles.

The wind resource in Washoe Valley is too good to pass up. We need to take whatever steps we reasonably can to reduce our dependence on oil, foreign or domestic.

In short, we need cheap energy more than we need a "preserved historic district" which isn't preserved anyway.

Robert Frenchu
871 Clearview Drive
Carson City, NV 89701
xxx-xxx-xxxx

12/15/2008 Ken Sullivan

Ken Sullivan <xx@yy.zzz>

Date: 12/15/2008 06:00 AM

Subject: New Comstock Wind Energy Project

To whom it concerns:

I wanted to voice my approval of the concept of wind turbines in the Virginia Range. I believe the visual impact would be a small price to pay for clean energy. I'm more concerned about the impact on birds in the area. Are these proposed towers the type that are designed to minimize bird strikes?

Thanks,

Ken Sullivan
1350 Jefferson Dr.
Carson City, NV 89706
xx@yy.zzz

12/15/2008 Bill Eubanks

xx@yy.zzz
Date: 12/15/2008 08:12 AM

Subject: (no subject)

Good Morning:

I have read the an article in the Nevada Appeal this morning regarding a wind turbine project for the Virginia ridge. I am totally against this until some areas of interest are responsibly addressed. Who is going to finance this venture? You are claiming that these 69 wind turbines will provide enough electrical power for some 60,000 homes. I must question this assertion because wind turbines cannot operate when there is not enough wind, or too much wind. So therefore, since these ideal situations do not exist on this mountain ridge where winds exceed 100 miles per hour for a majority of the year then it appears to be a fantasy idea os someone suffering from being stuck on stupid.

How about the danger to bird, to include Eagles, Hawks, and other endangered birds of prey who may fly into the turbine blades? How about the difficulty of gaining access to these turbines from snow, ice and heavy winds for repair or maintenance? How about the environmental impact from building roads through a pristine area, and disturbing the wildlife by the construction of said roads and turbines?

How about the view of turbines on a mountain ridge that is easily observable of anyone living in the area destroying the pristine view of said mountain tops?

Thank you
Bill Eubanks

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12/15/2008 Mike Plattsmier

xx@yy.zzz

Date: 12/15/2008 08:28 AM

Subject: Mailing list for Wind project

Please add my email address to updates, etc. for the Comstock - Great Basin Project. I am an Advocate supporting the move to reduce Fossil fuel consumption, reduce CO2 emissions.

Mike Plattsmier

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12/15/2008 Lanette Bowen

"Lanette Bowen" <xx@yy.zzz>

Date: 12/15/2008 08:47 AM

Subject: Wind energy project

Good morning.

I couldn’t be at last week’s meeting, so I’m pleased at the opportunity to comment on the idea.

We need to begin using our resources, solar and wind, to develop alternative energy. I have lived in Nevada for 30 years and have always wondered why there was no wind farm around or through Washoe Valley. Maybe we need to think more about future energy needs that how the wind turbines will look aesthetically.

Again, great idea, and I hope it will be a go!

Lanette Bowen
4150 Conte Dr.
Carson City, NV 89701

DISCLAIMER:
This e-mail and any attachments are intended only for use by the addressee(s) named herein and may contain legally privileged and/or confidential information. If you are not the intended recipient, any dissemination, distribution or copying of this e-mail and any attachments is strictly prohibited. If you have received this e-mail in error, please immediately notify me and permanently delete the original and all copies and printouts of this e-mail and any attachments.

12/15/2008 Reta Hanks

"Reta Hanks" <xx@yy.zzz>

Date: 12/15/2008 11:04 AM

Subject: Wind Energy Project

Hello:

Although I have not seen the project yet, I strongly support the concept. I feel the wind turbines would add to the interest of the comstock area. Combining the history of early mining along with the new technology of wind energy in the comstock area seems quite fascinating. It might be included in the narrative while traveling on the new railroad line!

Thanks for giving us the opportunity to comment.

Reta Hanks
Carson City, NV

12/15/2008 Betty Lee Kelly

"Betty Lee Kelly" <xx@yy.zzz>

Date: 12/15/2008 03:11 PM

Subject: Comments on Comstock Wind Project--12-15-2008

Please respond to <xx@yy.zzz>

12-15-2008 MY COMMENTS regarding Comstock Wind Project:

I know it sounds great on the surface and I haven’t been to BLM CC office as yet, BUT my immediate impact concerns are the birds, the destruction of the natural landscape and trash left by the construction people, the wildlife, including the protection and migration of the Virginia Range wild horses, the ongoing need and cost for maintenance of the turbines, which means access roads and over a stretch of how many miles as the crow flies, how far apart are the turbines, structures fire proof, fences build that will prevent natural migration of wildlife, the makeup of the company, including names, etc., where will the initial cost come from, how will it be decided who will use this energy, etc. I personally am not worried about the “visual pollution” at this time.

Betty Kelly
Washoe Valley NV 89704

________________________________________________________________
Sent via the WebMail system at yy.zzz

12/15/2008 John Nickerson

"John Nickerson" <xx@yy.xxx>

Date: 12/15/2008 04:44 PM

Subject: Wind Project

Excellant proposal, I have lived off the grid for over 10 years in the comstock area using solar voltaics and wind power, its great. We need to work this one. Wind power is a great solar energy sourch and Northern Nevada should be developing our resources with more projects like this one.

Thanks

John

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12/15/2008 Sam Miller

"Sam Miller" <xx@yy.zzz>

To: newcomstockwind@blm.gov
Sent By: xx@yy.zzz

Subject: Wind project opens for public comments

Date: 12/15/2008 04:19 PM

Please respond to xx@yy.zzz

I think you would be interested in reading this.

Link to the story:: http://www.nevadaappeal.com/article/2008812129956

Hawaii has wind projects being built on several islands. They already have one project operational on Maui and are planning a large project to be built on Lanai. Tourists to Hawaii see this as positive instead of negative.

Best Regards

Sam Miller

12/15/2008 Fred Clement

fred clement <xx@yy.zzz>

Date: 12/15/2008 05:37 PM

Subject: FW: McClellan Peak wind turbine's

Please respond to xx@yy.zzz

--- On Mon, 12/15/08, Clement, Fred <xx@yy.zzz> wrote:
From: Clement, Fred <xx@yy.zzz>
Subject: FW: McClellan Peak wind turbine's
To: xx@yy.zzz
Date: Monday, December 15, 2008, 5:32 PM


-----Original Message-----
From: Clement, Fred
Sent: Saturday, December 13, 2008 4:21 PM
To: 'newcomnstockwind@blm.gov'
Subject: McClellan Peak wind turbine's

To whom it my concern,

I am a hang glider pilot, and I am writing to express my concerns about the proposed wind turbine development on McClellan Peak, north of Carson City, Nevada.

While I am a supporter of the development of alternative energy sources, I am very concerned that this project, as shown on your map, will almost certainly eliminate the use of McClellan peak as a hang gliding site.

I have been a hang glider pilot for 35 years, and have flown many times from McClellan peak. Hang gliding's biggest problem is simply the lack of suitable hills from which to launch - they are few and far between, and almost entirely restricted to those hills on public lands. McClellan peak is one of the best sites for hang gliding for hundreds of miles around. Pilots travel long distances to fly there, and flights of hundreds of miles have been made from there. Loss of this site would be  a major blow to our sport - there is simply nowhere else for us to fly in this entire region that is suitable, given the prevailing westerly
winds.

I do hope that if this project goes forward, that it does so in a manner that leaves us room to take off and fly safely, and access will be provided to the hang gliding community to do so.

<< Sincerely Mr. Fred Clement 5259 Joaquin Drive, Santa Rosa. California, 95409

12/16/2008 Tom Lahey

Thomas Lahey <xx@yy.zzz>

Date: 12/16/2008 08:51 AM

Subject:

All in favor of this project. How about more in Kings Canyon or above Thunder Canyon where the wind really blows. Who is financing and managing the project? Government or private?

Tom Lahey
xxx-xxx-xxxx

12/16/2008 Ingeborg Wurmsdobler

"INGEBORG WURMSDOBLER" <xx@yy.zzz>

To: <newcomstockwind@blm.gov>
Date: 12/16/2008 09:13 AM

Subject:

To whom it may concern.

I really would like to see Wind energy here in Carson City too. We have so much wind in this area, it would help to keep the rising utility bill down. In Europe, they don't have much space for trash deposit, they burned it,which safes for landfills. This is such a big Country here, why can this not be done here?

Sincerely,

Carson City----

12/16/2008 Michael Caughlan

{Header Garbled}

12/16/2008 09:25 AM

Subject: wind energy project

The benefits to the vast majority of us who live here far outweigh the sentiments of a few vocal people who feel this is visual "pollution".

The true pollution comes from burning fossil fuels!!

I strongly support the project.

Michael Caughlan
220-0340
xx@yy.zzz

12/16/2008 Will Keating

"Will Keating" <xx@yy.zzz>

Date: 12/16/2008 12:18 PM

Subject: My Support for New Comstock Wind Energy Project

I enthusiastically support the New Comstock Wind Energy Project. I will be very proud for Nevada, every time that I look up and see the wind mills merrily generating energy. I also feel that the windmills will highlight and enhance the ridgeline of the Comstock.

Will Keating
8 Comstock Circle
Carson City, NV 89703

xxx-xxx-xxxx
xx@yy.zzz

12/16/2008 Carolelee Challender

"Carolelee Challender" <xx@yy.zzz>

Date: 12/16/2008 03:51 PM

Subject: Wind Energy

We have a LOT of wind in this area so it should be a natural for us to have wind towers and capture all that energy.

I have never forgot when I went thru a section of California MANY years ago and there were wind turbines. It was an exciting thought to me.

So, I vote for us to be leaders!! We should have other areas around here that would be good too.

12/16/2008 Dan Virden, Nevada Controls

"dvirden" <dvirden@nevadacontrols.com>

Date: 12/16/2008 05:20 PM

Subject: Wind Project Manager

(Embedded image moved to file: pic12292.gif)

What is the status of the proposed wind energy project in the Comstock range? I went to the open house of sorts and signed up for some email reports and have not received any. Is this a project that the BLM is sponsoring or is this a private venture? I’m just curious. My company is involved in power generation of various sorts. We specialize in the system integration as well as the custom control panel building and installation. We’re actually right across the street from you guys.

Any information coming down would be greatly appreciated.

Thank you.

Dan Virden
Manufacturing/Supply Chain
775-841-6501 Office
775-841-6512 Fax
775-671-5483 Cell

www.nevadacontrols.com

(Embedded image moved to file: pic06038.gif) Nevada-Controls-Logo

12/17/2008 Debra J. Burns

"Debra J. Burns" <xx@yy.zzz>

To: <newcomstockwind@blm.gov>
Date: 12/17/2008 01:31 PM

Subject: I am a storey county resident...



   …and I believe that God has given us many resources in which to use, with wind being one of them, and we need to take advantage of whatever resources are available to us in order to provide energy to an increasing population. There are enough people out there that have awesome ideas that can be put into action in order that visually the “windmills” can be built to keep with the western theme. I hope that considerations will be made. Thank you.

   Debra Burns, LS II
   xxx-xxx-xxxx
   xx@yy.zzz

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The preceding e-mail message (including any attachments) contains information that may be confidential, be protected by the attorney-client or other applicable privileges, or constitute non-public information, and it reflects the opinions and thoughts of Debra J. Burns and does not reflect official policy of the Attorney General. It is intended to be conveyed only to the designated recipients(s). If you are not an intended recipient of this message, please notify the sender by replying to this message and then delete it from your system. Use, dissemination, distribution or reproduction of this message by unintended recipients is not authorized and may be unlawful.

12/18/2008 Lynn Zonge

"Lynn Zonge" <xx@yy.zzz>
To <newcomstockwind@blm.gov>
Date: 12/18/2008 12:04 PM

Subject: Scoping comments

I am sure you will address:

Bat and bird mortality due to the blades

Visual impacts due to the towers

Recreation impacts

Best,
Lynn Zonge

12/19/2008 Steve & Zita Waclo

Steve & Zita Waclo <xx@yy.zzz>

To: newcomstockwind@blm.gov
Date: 12/19/2008 12:01 PM

Subject: An Article of Interest

Please respond to xx@yy.zzz

Thanks for your hospitality at the recent Open House Meeting for the New Comstock Wind Energy Project. While I do not presume to be knowledgeable in the field, I do want to forward this link to a recent article in Power Engineering that provides an excellent overview of the technology.On the 10th, I delivered a hard copy to representatives of the company proposing the project .

http://pepei.pennnet.com/display_article/346401/6/ARTCL/none/none/1/Turbine-Tech-Drives-Wind-Into-the-Generation-Mainstream/

Will watch for developments.

Steve Waclo

12/20/2008 Ron L. Reno, PhD, Storey County community volunteer

"R.L. Reno" <rlreno@gbis.com>
To: <newcomstockwind@blm.gov>

Date: 12/20/2008 03:54 PM

Subject: Comments

Attached is my letter with concerns regarding scoping for the New Comstock Wind Energy Project.

Ron Reno
rlreno@gbis.com

(See attached file: Concerns Letter BLM 12-20-08.doc)

{Converted to PDF by JM: Concerns_Letter_BLM_12-20-08.pdf}

12/22/2008 Louis Doescher

Louis Doescher <xx@yy.zzz>

To: newcomstockwind@blm.gov
Date: 12/22/2008 07:49 AM

Cc: jan doescher <xx@yy.zzz>
Subject: wind

Please respond to: xx@yy.zzz

Dear Sir: Please add my name, and my wife's, to the list of people who are very much in favor of the wind energy project that was in the Appeal recently. Wind generated energy, particularly in this area, just makes good sense. Sincerely,

Lou Doescher

12/22/2008 Mark Struble, BLM

From: Mark_Struble@blm.gov <Mark_Struble@blm.gov>
Subject: Thank You for Signing Up on the New Comstock Wind Energy Project EIS E-Mail             List
To:
Date: Monday, December 22, 2008, 2:57 PM

I wanted to take a moment and thank those of you who have signed up to be on the e-mail list for the New Comstock Wind Energy Project. Thanks also to those of you who have already taken the time to provide us with scoping comments - for the rest of you, we are accepting scoping input through January 30. Project information, including a pdf map of the proposed project, is located on our webpage:

http://www.blm.gov/nv/st/en/fo/carson_city_field/blm_information/newsroom/2008/december/blm_to_prepare_an.html

We appreciate your interest and input. Happy Holidays!

Mark Struble
Public Affairs Officer
BLM-Carson City District Office
5665 Morgan Mill Road, Carson City, NV 89701
(775) 885-6107 FAX: (775) 885-6147 Cell: (775) 721-8182
mstruble@nv.blm.gov

"Sunshine is the best disinfectant." Supreme Court Justice Louis D. Brandeis

12/23/08 Dan Schlenger

Dan Schlenger <xx@yy.zzz

To: Mark_Struble@blm.gov
Date: 12/23/08 06:37 AM

Subject: Re: Thank You for Signing Up on the New Comstock Wind Energy Project EIS E-Mail List

I was talking with someone in the wind energy business for many years. He said this project in its current form won't be very efficient because of a poor selection of turbines. He said is very common to put a class 6 turbine in a class 2 or 3 zone such as the one we are talking about here.

For the sake of all of us, I hope the people who can decide choose correctly.

Dan Schlenger
Minden, NV

12/23/2008 Robert Elston

Robert Elston <xx@yy.zzz>

To: newcomstockwind@blm.gov
Date: 12/23/2008 01:04 PM

Subject: Please put me on list

Hi,

Please alert me to any public meetings regarding the proposed wind turbine project in the Comstock.

Thank,

Robert Elston

12/23/2008 Dan Virden, Nevada Controls

"dvirden" <dvirden@nevadacontrols.com>

To: <newcomstockwind@blm.gov>
Date: 12/23/2008 01:14 PM

Subject: Scoping Comments

Everything looks good. Looking forward to the potential project.

Dan Virden
Manufacturing/Supply Chain
775-841-6501 Office
775-841-6512 Fax
775-671-5483 Cell

www.nevadacontrols.com

(Embedded image moved to file: pic13030.gif)Nevada-Controls-Logo

12/23/2008 Steve & Zita Waclo

Steve & Zita Waclo <xx@yy.zzz>

To: newcomstockwind@blm.gov
Date: 12/23/2008 06:45 PM

Cc: Jack Smith <xx@yy.zzz>, David Waclo <xx@yy.zzz>,Matt Waclo <xx@yy.zzz>, Tom Waclo <xx@yy.zzz>, zita <zz@yy.zzz>

Please respond to:

Subject: Tourism Enhancement and Other Issues

Hello:

The handout material I picked up at the BLM Open House summarized common myths about wind turbines and I want to comment in regard to "Wind Turbines Do Not Benefit Local Communities", and the sidebar by Robert Burns of W. Virginia (pg 2):

My wife and I both grew up in Central Pennsylvania but we have lived here in Carson City since 2002. Whenever we have an opportunity to visit her family home near Portage we always make an opportunity to visit the Allegheny Ridge Wind Farm. Unless a person has actually stood at the base of one of the towers, it's impossible to fully appreciate the size, and dare I say, majesty of these installations. That being said, I want to encourage the developers to provide easy public access and a designated parking/viewing area for at least one of the units. From the looks of the map that has been provided, there appear to be a number of candidate sites
just off Geiger Grade. If an alternate access road to one of the units could be provided during construction, one that would not combine tourist and work crew vehicles, all the better. Naturally, access would need to be controlled, but providing an opportunity to watch a tower go up would encourage a sense of "ownership" by locals, an easy path to the facility for tourists and also provide access for the "film at 11" crowd, who are always looking for ways to fill air time. Personally, I think they secretly hope something is going to fall over, but that's just me (Embedded image moved to file: pic16413.gif).

As I mentioned, we always visit the Allegheny Ridge Facility when we go back and are never disappointed.

Here's a link to a YouTube video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CpBvAYOIMEI

Another issue that is particularly important is addressed in this series of photos concerning the same facility.
http://www.windaction.org/documents/15800

One thing that has disturbed us at Allegheny Ridge is the environmental disruption that has occurred there. Obviously, weather conditions in PA will tend to heal some of the issues over time but here in NV, where tracks from WWII tank exercises look like they happened last week, we don't enjoy the luxury of a rapidly self-healing environment. Actually, some of the problems identified in the photos are not going to go away anytime soon. It's interesting to compare the AR contractors statement of the environmental impact with the actuality.

Bottom line, I trust we will have continuous and rigorous oversight during the construction process to protect out fragile NV topography.

Also, although I can hear the howls of protest already, I believe OHV's should be prohibited, period.

Unfortunately, a small cadre of those folks tend to travel off the designated roadways, and eventually their shortcuts become regular routes for everyone else and the whole area will become  criss-crossed with dirt trails...and there go any contractor erosion control plans right out the window. Sorry OHV'ers, go play in another sand box.

In conclusion, the bird issue is one that always arises and I doubt that I can add much to what will be said in that regard. Although it is a very serious subject, I could not restrain myself from attaching this link to a troubling page I came across during a Google search.

http://www.dotpenn.com/2008/542/big-bird-sustains-injuries-flying-over-allegheny-wind-farm.html

I will keep the comment deadline in mind (end of January/09) and be in touch if other issues arise.

Cheers,

Steve Waclo
xxx-xxx-xxxx

12/24/2008 Brian Turner, National Trust for Historic Preservation

Brian Turner <Brian_Turner@nthp.org>

To: "'newcomstockwind@blm.gov'" <newcomstockwind@blm.gov>
Date: 12/24/2008 12:01 PM

Cc:                                  'nbrown@achp.gov' <nbrown@achp.gov>,
                                       'robin_burgess@blm.gov' <robin_burgess@blm.gov>,
                                       'Elaine_Jackson-Retondo@nps.gov' <Elaine_Jackson-Retondo@nps.gov>,
                                       'ambaldri@clan.lib.nv.us’ <ambaldri@clan.lib.nv.us>,

Barbara Pahl <Barbara_Pahl@nthp.org>,
Alexander Hays <Alexander_Hays@nthp.org>

Subject: Virginia City Turbines - NTHP Letter (2nd try)


Please disregard the previous email and accept this pdf attachment as comments from the the National Trust for Historic Preservation on the New Comstock wind energy project. I apologize for any inconvenience.

Brian

Brian R. Turner | Law Fellow, Western Office | National Trust for Historic Preservation |

| The Hearst Building | 5 Third Street, Suite 707 | San Francisco, CA 94103 |
Phone: 415-947-0692 ext. 38225| Fax: 415-947-0699|

Email: brian_turner@nthp.org| www.PreservationNation.org

Are you a National Trust member? Have you visited our historic sites, stayed in one of our historic hotels or taken one of our study tours? Learn more at www.PreservationNation.org

(See attached file: 2008 12 24 NTHP Letter.pdf)

12/29/2008 Molly Burnet

"molly burnet" <xx@yy.zzz>

To: Windmills <newcomstockwind@blm.gov>

Date: 12/29/2008 08:41 AM

Subject: Windmills

Comstock history is precious. It is a joy to live in a place that people spend their vacation time and money to experience. Efforts to preserve and promote Virginia City are greatly appreciated by myself and by most people I know.

That being said, I believe any distraction from the historical value the Comstock holds is worth the benefits the windmills would bring. It would be a pleasure to be a part of the solution to a problem that the whole world shares. What if all Historic Districts put up windmills? Perhaps it would become the norm and visitors would expect to see them and appreciate the effort to move the world in a possitive direction. Both the past and future could be represented side by side.

01/01/2009 Merlyn Paine

"mpaine" xx@yy.zzz

Date: 01/01/2009 11:08 AM

cc: "Jim Rhode'" <xx@yy.zzz>

Subject: New Comstock Wind Energy Project - preliminary comments

I am making a comment as a result of the December, 2008 workshop at the BLM office in Carson City.

I have read the description, looked at the maps, discussed the project with BLM personnel and the project developer, and I think it is a wonderful project. It will be not far from our home; the project is north of Hwy 50 and we live on the south side of Highway 50, however, we would most likely see it every time we headed to Carson City via Deer Run Road and Highway 50. I think it will be beautiful and a real asset to the bare, dry hills that in themselves are plentiful and often burned off by wildfires; they could use some visual and aesthetic interest.

While those residents of Virginia City want their 100-mile view unobstructed in all possible directions to make it look like the 1860’s, I have some empathy. However, many of their views are already corrupted and the startling beauty and contrast of wind turbines, juxtaposed against an old tourist town, may be wonderful in itself. It may make Virginia City even more interesting.

I think also that a wind farm, especially as this one is planned, is an extremely important statement that Nevada is a forward thinking state, which is capable of implementing well-planned, well-executed projects for the public good.

I suggest that the roads, however, be carefully planned for maximum stability and blending into the existing terrain. The sites not only are affected by earthquakes and wind gusts over 85 miles per hour, but the soils generate high levels of dust, and the construction scars in this climate may not even heal in my lifetime. Thus, I request that real care be included in planning and building the construction and service roads.

Merlyn Paine

6025 Pursia Road

Carson City NV 89701

01/10/2009 Dorrine Sadilek

"Dorrine Sadilek" xx@yy.zzz

Date: 01/10/2009 09:58 AM

Subject: wind farm in the virginia range

I almost forgot I wanted to weight in on the proposal for a wind farm in the Virginia Range. First off let me say I'm tired of "not in my backyard."

In the 1990's I worked for 5 months in Virginia City and drove up there each day. This business about the windmills being unsightly in the Comstock area does make much sense to me. Rarely did I look up at the top of the mountains, and I don't think the tourists do either. I was always interested in looking at what was on either side of the road no matter how many times I had seen it. I think it is the appearance of the historical towns that interest people not the tops of the mountains.

You've got may vote to approve the wind farm.

Dorrine Sadilek

230 Annapolis Ave.

Carson City, NV 89703

xxx-xxxx

01/12/2009 Andrea Turman, Marketing Specialist

Andrea Turman <acturman@unr.edu>

http://www.extendedstudies.unr.edu

Date: 01/12/2009 05:28 PM

Subject: Grave concerns about the Comstock wind project

Dear New Comstock Wind EIS Project Manager,

On the eve of Virginia City's 150th anniversary celebration, it is appalling to me that disfiguring wind turbines may be allowed to desecrate this incredible landscape. Anyone who has seen or read of their destructive presence in communities around the world understands these grave concerns.

Additionally, turbines have been shown to fail and spread burning debris upon their demise. Do we want to run the risk of having the Comstock BURN TO THE GROUND because one of these unattended machines went haywire and spewed sparks and embers across our dry hills one windy day?

Here's what a British reporter had to say about wind turbines in Wales:

"Anyone who thinks that wind factories are environmentally friendly should Google 'Cefn Croes Photo Gallery', to see 100 chilling pictures showing how many miles of unspoiled Welsh countryside were disfigured to create the largest industrial site in Britain: all to 'save' annually less than a quarter of the CO2 emissions from a single jumbo jet." — Christopher Booker, Telegraph, U.K.

I've owned property in Storey County for 25 years, raised three honors students in this school district (K-12) and care deeply for this community. I've read research, comments, possible safeguards and environmental policies communities can write into their planning commissions' regulatory statements, etc., from http://www.wind-watch.org, including this chilling quote above from the Telegraph in Great Britain, where Wales was taken in by the notion that these industrial projects are "green."

By these accounts, wind farms are so not green and so not kind to pristine sites, residential communities, wildlife or habitat, regardless of what otherwise reasonable environmentalists and wind proponents try to tell us and have us believe.

Can the Comstock afford the risk of turning our surroundings into mega-industrial eyesores across our beautiful mountainsides and historic vistas? Can we afford the risk of destroying property values and losing tourism dollars? Who would want to live in or visit Virginia City while these turbines whoop and blink and loom ominously over the ridgelines? Or worse: Can we afford the risk of burning the Comstock down?

The Cefn Croes story and photos are heartbreaking, and it's happening increasingly in places all over the world, from Vermont and New York to Denmark, the Netherlands and beyond.

I believe these stories need to be shared so that Reno, Sparks, Carson, Washoe County, Storey County, Lyon County and all other Nevada communities might be spared the same devastating fate.

Thank you for providing a sounding board for our cares and concerns for the Comstock,

Andrea

Andrea Turman

Geary House 1876

PO Box 1057

Virginia City, NV 89440

(775) 813-2680

acturman@yahoo.com

Andrea Turman

Marketing Specialist

Extended Studies

University of Nevada, Reno/0048

Reno, NV 89557 USA

(775) 784-4046 or direct (775) 682-7569

acturman@unr.edu

01/14/2009 Austin Osborne, Storey County Planning Department

"Austin Osborne" aosborne@storeycounty.org

Date: 01/14/2009 10:33 AM

cc: "Austin Osborne" <aosborne@storeycounty.org>

Subject: Public Scoping Comment

BLM Carson City District Office,

Attached to this message and pasted below is Storey County's Public Scoping Comment regarding Great Basin Wind's New Comstock Wind Energy Project. We appreciate your consideration in this matter.

Thank you,

Austin T. Osborne

Land Use Planner

Storey County Planning Department

Box 526 Virginia City, NV 89440

Office: 775.847.0966

Cell: 775.291.4693

Fax: 775.847.0935

January 12, 2009

To: Bureau of Land Management Carson City District-Sierra Front Field Office

Re: New Comstock Wind Energy Project, EIS Scoping Scoping Comment - Request to Obtain Information

The purpose of this letter is to request illustrative data related to Great Basin Wind’s proposed New Comstock Wind Energy Project located in and adjacent to Storey County along the Virginia Range.

To better assess potential visual impact, which is a key concern, the Storey County Manager and Planning Department are respectfully requesting a computerized 3-dimensional fly-through visual representation of said project. The computerized model should portray a scale version of the completed project from the viewpoints of Virginia City and Gold Hill town sites and the Virginia and Truckee Railroad (V&T) corridor from Virginia City to Highway 50 East, Mound House, Nevada.

Currently, the Bureau of Land Management is scheduled to conduct an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) presentation of the proposed utility-scale wind farm to the public at the February 19, 2009, Storey County Planning Commission meeting. We request that the visual material, in a manner consistent with that stated above, be offered to the County and the attending public at this meeting.

Please contact us at any time with further questions and/or concerns.

Thank you for your consideration in this manner.

Sincerely,

Austin T. Osborne

Storey County Planner

Austin T. Osborne

Land Use Planner

Storey County Planning Department

Box 526 Virginia City, NV 89440

Office: 775.847.0966

Cell: 775.291.4693

Fax: 775.847.0935

lplemel@ci.carson-city.nv.us

CONFIDENTIALITY DISCLAIMER:

This e-mail and any attachments are intended only for use by the addressee(s) named herein and may contain legally privileged and/or confidential information. If you are not the intended recipient, any dissemination, distribution or copying of this e-mail and any attachments is strictly prohibited. If you have received this e-mail in error, please immediately notify me and permanently delete the original and all copies and printouts of this e-mail and any attachments.

(See attached file: Letter to BLM requesting visual info 01-12-09.doc)

{Converted to PDF by JM: Letter_to_BLM_requesting_visual_info_01-12-09.pdf}

01/13/09 Lee Plemel, AICP, Director Carson City Planning Division

>>> <Mark_Struble@blm.gov> 1/14/2009 1:23 PM >>>

Note the change to the start time on 2/25 for the Carson City Planning Commission meeting (now 5:00 p.m.). I'll make the change on our webpage...

---- Forwarded by Mark Struble/CCFO/NV/BLM/DOI on 01/14/09 01:20 PM -----

"Lee Plemel" <LPlemel@ci.carson-city.nv.us>

To: <Mark_Struble@blm.gov>

Date: 01/13/09 11:22 AM

Subject: Re: New Comstock Wind Energy Project to be Presented to Local County Planning Commissions in February-March 2009

The Carson City Planning Commission meeting on February 25 will begin at 5:00 p.m., not 3:30 p.m. as listed below. The public can contact the Planning Division one week before the meeting for more detail on the item's placement and timing on the agenda.

Lee Plemel, AICP, Director

Carson City Planning Division

2621 Northgate Lane, Suite 62

Carson City, NV 89706

(775) 887-2188 x30075

Fax: 887-2278

Planning Division website: http://www.carson-city.nv.us/Index.aspx?page=174

>>> <Mark_Struble@blm.gov> 1/12/2009 2:58 PM >>>

http://www.blm.gov/nv/st/en/fo/carson_city_field/blm_programs/planning/new_comstock_wind.html

This is just a reminder message to those of you who asked to be on the New Comstock Wind Energy Project EIS mailing list that the closing date for scoping period comments 4:30 p.m. on Friday, January 30. Thanks to those of you who have already submitted your comments.

You may be interested in knowing that BLM will be coordinating with the following county planning commissions on this project proposal in February-March 2009:

February 19 - Storey County Planning Commission - 6:00 p.m.

Check county website or call 775-847-0966 for meeting location.

February 25 - Carson City Planning Commission - 3:30 p.m.

Sierra Room of the Carson City Community Center, 851 East William Street.

March 3 - Washoe County Planning Commission - 6:30 p.m.

Washoe County Commission Chambers, 1001 E. 9th St., Reno.

Thank you again for your interest and input!

Mark Struble

Public Affairs Officer

BLM-Carson City District Office

5665 Morgan Mill Road, Carson City, NV 89701

(775) 885-6107 FAX: (775) 885-6147 Cell: (775) 721-8182

mstruble@nv.blm.gov

(See attached file: Paiute Facilities Map Comstock Wind Energy-Model.pdf)

01/21/09 Karen Kish, President Lahontan Audubon Society

Karen Kish <klkish@pyramid.net>

To: Mark Struble <mark_struble@blm.gov>

Date: 01/21/09 12:54 PM

Subject: Comstock Wind Energy Proj Mailing List

Hello, Mark.

Please remove my name from the Comstock Wind Energy Project e-mailing list, and add Ali Chaney at ali_chaney@hotmail.com

Ali is the Conservation Chair for Lahontan Audubon Society. She, as well as Robin Powell, Director of IBA, will be following the project on behalf of Lahontan Audubon Society.

Best regards,

Karen L. Kish, President

Lahontan Audubon Society

01/22/09 Jesus Martinez, Paiute Pipeline Company

"Jesus Martinez" <Jesus.Martinez@swgas.com>

To: <Mark_Struble@blm.gov>

Date: 01/22/09 02:12 PM

cc: "Craig Sisco" <Craig.Sisco@swgas.com>

Subject: Re: Change to Start Time for Carson City Planning Commission on February 25 (New Comstock Wind Energy Project)

Mark,

I have attached a PDF General Paiute Pipeline facilities map in the area of your project.

Since BLM was not able to provide us a better quality map, at least this map will give you an idea where our facilities are.

Feel free to call me at:

775-887-2862 if you need additional information.

Jesus Martinez

Engineering Department

Paiute Pipeline Company.

Thank you.

01/22/2009 Steve Ayer

Steve Ayer xx@yy.zzz

Date: 01/22/2009 05:04 PM

Subject: Windmills On Virginia Range

There is no way you can allow windmills on the mountains above Virginia City and the rest of the historic district. While wind power is a great idea there are literally thousands of places windmills can be placed without being located adjacent to a community and historic mining district.

The only reason this site has been chosen is out of greed. The developer wants to take advantage of the existing power lines and not have to invest the capital it should take to bring power delivery lines to the site.

This is at the cost of the citizens of Virginia City, Gold Hill, and Silver City. If this were the only place in Nevada where this type of power could be produced I would say lets look at it further. But this is not the case.

Virginia City is the most famous historic site in Nevada and needs to be preserved at all costs. Lets not do like the Reno City council and overlook history in pursuit of the dollar. Not only will the look detract from the historic flavor but the sound will adversely impact the residents. They say there is no noise factor but that is a lie. There were a number of residents who were impacted by the much smaller test windmill. There are many remote sites where wind power can be generated without making residents suffer.

The other serious impact will be the roads needed to transport the windmills to there placements. I see these traveling down the highway every day. They are over size loads and are carried on trailers that are 80 to 100' in length. There is also the tractor to include. The roads in the area now are somewhat primitive and restrict the numbers of people accessing the back country. You might as well place a super highway along the back ridge thus opening the countryside to thousands of explorers. Now you will adversely impact the environment and dramatically increase the fire danger in the area. The simple answer is to tell the developer to find another location for his profit making venture. We don't want the project and I should think the BLM doesn't want it either. Please refuse their request.

Thank you!

Steve Ayer

xxx-xxx-xxxx

Windows Live™ Hotmail®…more than just e-mail. See how it works.

01/25/2009 Carol Riley

"Carol Riley" xx@yy.zzz

To <newcomstockwind@blm.gov>

Date: 01/25/2009 02:50 PM

Subject: Comment

We must reduce our dependence on foreign oil, coal and gas because of the cost and damage it does to our environment. And, so I am in favor of this wind project. Sometimes we will see things on our landscape or perhaps other differences, we are not used to, but will have to accept in order to achieve this energy

independence.

I am sure the proper studies will be made as to the effect these turbines will have on the wild animals that inhabit this area, etc.

Carol Riley

148 Empire Lane

Carson City, NV 89706

"Carol Riley" <xx@yy.zzz>

Date: 01/25/2009 03:05 PM

Subject: mailing list

Please add my name to the New Comstock Wind Energy Project EIS mailing list.

Thank you,

Carol Riley

148 Empire Lane

Carson City, NV 89706

xx@yy.zzz

01/26/2009 Brian Doyal, Secretary Nevada Wings

Brian Doyal skyrider@clearwire.net

Date: 01/26/2009 10:13 AM

Subject: New Comstock Wind EIS comments –

My name is Brian Doyal and I am a hang glider pilot and the Secretary for Nevada Wings, a Northern Nevada hang glider and paraglider club. The windmills being proposed at Mclellan Peak will eliminate hang gliding and paragliding at the best west facing ridge soaring site in Northern Nevada. There are alot of west facing ridges but most do not have vehicular access to the top. Hang glider pilots come from all over the world to fly this area and will typically fly Slide Mountain if the wind is out of the east or Mclellan Peak if the wind is out of the west. As you know the prevailing wind here is out of the west, making Mclellan Peak the preferred afternoon flying site in the area.

There are other west facing sites but there is very limited landing opportunities which are on private property and will most likely go away in the future. I have attached a clipped version of the original windmill location drawing to show the proposed windmill locations that will eliminate flying at McLellan Peak and hope that you take this into consideration in the EIS. I am personally for alternative energy but feel it should not eliminate top flying sites or destroy one of the better viewsheds in the area. The area surronding Washoe Lake currently has a wide open pristine feel to it, which would be lost if the windmills were to be placed as proposed. This area has State Parks, BLM and Forest Service land that has been kept open and pristine until now. There are many other sites for windmills and there will be more power transmission routes coming in the near future.

Hopefully we can find a location that works for all.

Thank You

Brian Doyal - Secretary

Nevada Wings www.nvwings.com

775-297-6397

(See attached file: WINDMILLS.jpg)

{Converted to PDF by JM: WINDMILLS.pdf}

01/26/2009 Mark Webber

Mark Webber xx@yy.zzz

Date: 01/26/2009 12:05 PM

Subject: The big picture

I'm not sure who talked you into wind generation of electricity.

It's not reliable at your location, see map at: http://www.windpoweringamerica.gov/wind_maps.asp

It's not helpful to the local economy (call the mayor of Palm Springs).

A poor installation will not help the state economy.

Any purchase of German equipment (where they are MADE) will not help the national economy.

What can and does work In your location is geothermal.

You owe your constituents the effort to look into the current operating system that is at the China Lake military base east of Lancaster, California.

You could offer free heat to any business in the incorporated section of Carson City.

You could run a FREE electric train (Nevada drivers license) between Reno and Carson city.

Or you could give Germany a bunch of our money.

I guess that I'm looking at a much bigger picture.

Sorry to bother you.

Mark Webber

xx@yy.zzz

01/26/2009 Robert Elston

Robert Elston <xx@yy.zzz>

Date: 01/26/2009 12:57 PM

Subject: Issues and Concerns Regarding the New Comstock Wind Energy Project

To Whom It May Concern:

I am a resident of Silver City, Nevada, and want to register my concerns regarding the New Comstock Wind Energy Project.

1). The project will harm the Virginia City National Historic Landmark and the Comstock National Historic District by installing many very large wind generators. Their number, size and appearance contrast with the scale and look of the 19th Century landscape, and thus may degrade, impact and change the Landmark (already endangered) and District.

2). Another concern is that these generators will make irritating and unhealthful noise. Silver City, where I live, lies in mostly on the west side of a canyon facing the ridge where the proposed wind generators will be installed. The ridge is about 1.5 miles from Silver City, but 2000 feet higher, and Silver City is down wind. The basin of American Flat and the funnel-like effect of American Ravine direct sound into Silver City. We can already hear the batch plant in Moundhouse.

3) Construction of these machines and their infrastructure (roads, power lines, etc.) will damage wildlife habitat.

4) Operation of the wind generators will harm birds and bats who may be struck by the propellers.

5) The construction and operation of these machines and infrastructure will remove a significant amount of land from recreation use such as hunting, hiking, mountain bike and ORV riding, and bird watching.

6) This project will degrade the quality of life for Comstock residents who bought and built their homes here out of the desire to live in a small town or rural environment removed from modern industrial clutter and mess.

7. This project will result on lower property values of Comstock residents because potential buyers will not be attracted to the degraded lifestyle and landscape created by the proposed project.

Yours truly,

Robert Elston

Robert G. Elston

P. O. Box 500

Silver City, NV 89428

Phone: xxx-xxx-xxxx

Fax: xxx-xxx-xxxx

01/26/2009 Paul Yandre

xx@yy.zzz

Date: 01/26/2009 03:35 PM

Cc: xx@yy.zzz

Subject: COMMENTS REGARDING WIND TURBINE PROJECT IN COMSTOCK HISTORIC DISTRICT

Sirs:

Please register my STRONG OPPOSITION to the idea of placing wind turbines in view of the Comstock Historic District.

Paul Yandre

PO Box 707

Virginia City, NV 89440

A Good Credit Score is 700 or Above. See yours in just 2 easy steps!

01/26/2009 Barbara Mackey, Director Historic Fourth Ward School

Fourth Ward School Director director@fourthwardschool.org

Date: 01/26/2009 04:03 PM

Subject: negative effect

Whatever happen to viewshed restrictions on the landscape. This project should have been denied immediately and brought back for review after the windmills were placed outside of the Comstock Historic District viewshed. Alternative energy sources are crucial but like oil not at the expense of everything else.

Sincerely,

Barbara Mackey

Director

Historic Fourth Ward School

(former historic archaeologist)

(See attached file: director.vcf)

01/26/2009 Mark

Mark <xx@yy.zzz>

To: "newcomstockwind@blm.gov"

Date: 01/26/2009 08:27 PM

Subject

Sent from my iPod

01/27/2009 Scott Smith, J.S. REDPATH CORPORATION

"Smith, Scott" <scott.smith@jsrl.com>

Date: 01/27/2009 08:39 AM’

Subject: Please add my name to the New Comstock Wind Energy Project EIS mailing list

Hello,

Would you please add my name to the Comstock Wind Energy Project EIS mailing list.

My mailing address is:

Scott Smith

1597 Bonanza Rd.

Virginia City Highlands, NV 89521

Thanks,

Scott Smith

Scott R. Smith

J.S. REDPATH CORPORATION

MINE CONTRACTORS AND ENGINEERS

1410 Greg St., Suite #404

Sparks, NV 89431 U.S.A.

Tel: (775) 359-0444

Fax: (775) 359-0450

Cell: (775) 772-7511

Email: scott.smith@jsrl.com

SAFETY – FIRST, LAST, and ALWAYS

The information transmitted is intended only for use by the addressee and may contain confidential and//or privileged material. Any review, re-transmission, dissemination or other use of it, or the taking of any action in reliance upon this information by persons and//or entities other than the intended recipient is prohibited. If you received this in error, please inform the sender and//or addressee immediately and delete the material from all locations. Thank you.

The Redpath Group

Head Office: 710 McKeown Avenue, North Bay, Ontario, Canada P1B 7M2 (705) 474-2461

01/27/2009 Susan Reynolds

"Susan Reynolds" <xx@yy.zzz>

Date: 01/27/2009 09:21 AM

Subject: Wind Generation Project on Gieger Grade

To Whom It May Concern:

This project does not seem to fill the needs of any Storey County residents, therefore I would like to voice my objection to the project.

Susan Reynolds

Resident and landowner

Virginia City Highlands

01/27/2009 Patrick J. Flanagan

xx@yy.zzz

Date: 01/27/2009 11:00 AM

Subject: In Support

I strongly support the windmills in Storey County, I also ask that you paint them all different bright colors, maybe put christmas tree lights on them or use some innovative lighting to see them at night. That would be pretty. Seeing small lights turning in the wind at night.

Also, please do not make any side deals with any of our Commissioners or public officials; I will remind you that such actions are illegal and not in the interests of the taxpayers. However, this does not preclude you from making donations to the schools or community chest. It does preclude donations to campaign funds for politicians; that would be a bribe and illegal. Use your money wisely and ethically. Follow the lead of Obama and his constraints on government and you will do fine.

Patrick J. Flanagan (Mr. Squid)

A Good Credit Score is 700 or Above. See yours in just 2 easy steps!

01/27/2009 Robbie Trudeau Epifanio

"Robbie Trudeau" <xx@yy.zzz>

Date: 01/27/2009 02:46 PM

Subject: Windmills

I am the owner of a 12 acre parcel – Lot 340 in the Virginia Highland Ranches and I am very much in favor of windmills in the area.

Roberta Trudeau Epifanio

PO Box 40397

Reno NV 89504

01/27/2009 Karlyn McPartlin

xx@yy.zzz

Date: 01/27/2009 05:08 PM

Subject: Re: windmills for Storey County

Sirs,

As a resident of Storey County I would like my very strong objection noted as to your plan to place windmills in our county. To put them so near a National Monument and the majority of homes is not only wrong but tells the residents how little you care about our home and environment.

If you choose to put them in the TRI area where there is virtually no residents at all then I would be able to back your program. I cannot back the program where you currently want to place them. Has anyone even bothered to look at where the residents live and consider their home values and quality of life?

It is interesting that after the Cordevista project and the power lines in Mark Twain that you find it expedient to again try to use our small county for the good of others in other counties. Just because we are small does not mean that we will become the county of choice to use for whatever our state or greedy investors decide to do. We are small but we are very committed to keeping our county somewhat intact. We chose to live in a rural community and refuse to allow it to be ruined by non residents.

Unfortunately I will do whatever is necessary to defeat this plan

Thank you,

Karlyn McPartlin

From Wall Street to Main Street and everywhere in between, stay up-to-date with the latest news.

01/27/2009 Joe Curtis, Storey County business owner and community volunteer

"Joe Curtis" jcurtis@storeycounty.org

Date: 01/27/2009 07:05 PM

Subject: Windmill letter from Virginia City

Gentlemen:

Attached is my letter of concerns regarding the New Comstock Wind Energy Project/New Comstock EIS.

I have also forwarded this letter via regular mail.

Thank you,

Joe Curtis

Business owner, Virginia City

Director, Storey County Emergency Management

Chief, Virginia City Vol. Fire Department

Board of Directors, Virginia City Convention and Tourism Authority

(See attached file: Windmill letter.doc)

{Converted to PDF by JM: Windmill_letter.pdf}

01/28/2009 Andy Biederman, President Virginia City Highlands Property Owners Association

Andy Biederman misterbied@yahoo.com

Date: 01/28/2009 05:01 AM

cc: planning@storeycounty.org

Subject: No Comstock Wind!

Please respond to misterbied@yahoo.com

To whom it may concern,

I would like to say that I am opposed to the wind farm being planned in the Comstock. There are many places where this would be appropriate in Storey County but not on the ridge behind Virginia City - a historic district and residential area.

The negative impacts of wind turbines are well documented at this point and there is no reason to put the residents of Virginia City and the Virginia City Highlands through this. As well as the negative effects listed in the following link I think there is also an issue with the water that will be needed to build and maintain this project. Don't forget dust abatement on 40 ft wide roads. The State Air Quality Board will likely have something to say about that. http://www.aweo.org/ProblemWithWind.html#tehachapi

Please look at other locations that will be less impactful to any residents. This would be destructive to habitats, local economy, property value, quality of life and as far as I can see there is very little return for the residents of Virginia City and the Virginia City Highlands.

Respectfully,

Andy Biederman

President Virginia City Highlands Property Owners Association

01/28/2009 Dave Curtis, Captain, Storey County Fire Department

David Curtis holdfast119@yahoo.com

Date: 01/28/2009 10:11 AM

Subject: Windmill Opposition

Please see the attached letter.

Thank You for your time.

(See attached file: Windmill opposition letter.docx)

{Converted to PDF by JM: Windmill_opposition_letter.pdf}

01/28/2009 Jim Poston

"Jim Poston" <xx@yy.zzz>

Date: 01/28/2009 10:49 AM

Subject: New Comstock Wind Energy Project

Please respond to EIS mailing list

Cc: xx@yy.zzz

Please add my name to New Comstock Wind Energy Project EIS mailing list. I prefer email or electronic information, but regular mail is acceptable.

Thank you.

Jim Poston

xx@yy.zzz

PO Box 11473

Reno, Nevada 89510

01/28/2009 Claire Wilder

"Claire Wilder" xx@yy.zzz

Date: 01/28/2009 12:27 PM

Subject: wind turbines on Virginia Range

We live in Virginia City Highlands, Storey County. Why will the energy produced not be helping those in Storey County? Why are the turbines proposed of the "helicopter blade" design? There is a company in Reno that builds turbines which are long cylindrical in shape, which I feel are more esthetic and don't create the problems the original "helicopter blade" design does.

We are concerned that not enough time is being set aside for comment from affected persons living within the view and hearing of these proposed towers. Also, not enough consideration is being given to alternative designs as mentioned above.

Thank you for considering the above.

Mr & Mrs Loren Wilder

21590 Dortort

VC Highlands, NV

Storey County

01/28/2009 Susan Sutton, Executive Director VCCTA

Susan Sutton <puddle1826@yahoo.com>

www.VisitVirginiaCityNV.com

Date: 01/28/2009 12:39 PM

Subject: Windmill Opposition

Susan Sutton

Executive Director

VCCTA

P.O. Box 920

Virginia City, NV 89440

PH: 775-847-7500

FX: 775-847-7507

(See attached file: OPPOSITION WINDMILLS.doc)

{Converted to PDF by JM: OPPOSITION_WINDMILLS.pdf}

01/28/2009 Marsha Nichols

MARSHA NICHOLS xx@yy.zzz

Date: 01/28/2009 06:52 PM

Subject: wind turbines

Please respond to mardees@sbcglobal.net

YES, let em' roll! everywhere -we live in windy Nevada should have been done long ago!

OH sun too!

okay don't go all the way to Virginia City stay on the Washoe Lake side range before VC

what - mine tailings are attractive??! Also more power to the little guys too - they have to put up the bucks to get started at an individual level - why make it more difficult with permits etc. - and a some poles with whirley things are NOT going to obstruct the view ..

and - creates JOBS! thanks

Marty

01/28/2009 Eric Pierson

Storey Victim xx@yy.zzz

Date: 01/28/2009 08:27 PM

Subject:

Please respond to xx@yy.zzz

I think this wind/power generation program would be a great benefit for the community, we are to dependent on foreign oil and it is time for a change.

Some may say it will ruin the value of their property.Excuse me, look what just happened to your property values.

I believe in the long run this will increase property values. Plus we are pretty well guaranteed wind.

Eric Pierson

01/28/2009 Jed Margolin

"Jed Margolin" <xx@yy.zzz>

Date: 01/28/2009 11:28 PM

Subject: Wind Farm in Storey County

In addition to the noise from the turbines themselves, there will be a very low frequency resonance of the towers that will be transmitted to the ground. It's a function of tower length, diameter, stiffness, how they are planted in the ground, and some other things. (It's like a vibrating string.)

How far it is transmitted through the ground will depend on the rock strata.

It could travel for very long distances.

I would like to see the analysis that has been done on this aspect of the wind farm.

Jed Margolin

VCH Resident

01/29/2009 Kristin Depew

Kristin Depew <xx@yy.zzz>

Date: 01/29/2009 06:52 PM

Subject: Comstock Wind

(Embedded image moved to file: pic29168.gif)

Please, stay away from Virginia City and the V.C. Highlands!

Although we're planning to install a wind turbine on our property, there would be nowhere near the impact on the environment that your project would potentially have.

This area is unique and precious in my opinion. Time has stood still in many ways, notably in failure to enact legislation protecting the environment. Show some respect for the preservation of our treasured corner of the world.

Sincerely

Kristin Depew

4830 Livery Rd

VC Highlands, NV 89521

01/30/2009 Leontine Nappe

Leontine Nappe <xx@yy.zzz>

Date: 01/30/2009 11:25 AM

Subject: Comments on the Comstock Project

Comstock Wind Project Inquiry:

After looking at the amount of damage on the Virginia Range, I would appreciate BLM addressing the following issues with regard to any additional approvals for cell towers, wind projects, road widening, etc.

What is the BLM definition of open space for this area. What values will be permitted or preserved?

If any of the proposed project is on or near any lands exchanged under the "Laborde" exchange, what additional requirements are being placed on any use of the land? Is it possible to lease land rather than provide a permanent easement over the property?

Are there additional requirements to protect natural resource values?

In short how does BLM land address lands acquired by exchange or purchase.

Sincerely,

Tina Nappe

01/30/2009 David Seggern

DAVID SEGGERN xx@yy.zzz

Date: 01/30/2009 05:34 PM

Subject: comments on Comstock wind farm scooping

I have attached a PDF file with comments on the Comstock wind farm scooping from the Great Basin Group, Sierra Club.

David von Seggern (See attached file: Comstock_wind_comments_Great_Basin_Group.pdf)

01/30/2009 James W. Hoeft

"James W. Hoeft" <xx@yy.zzz>

Date: 01/30/2009 11:58 PM

Subject: Proposed EIS by Great Basin Wind, LLC

In reviewing the proposed wind turbine project, as much as I am in favor of wind powered electricity (I used to live in Livermore and personally, I thought the Altamont "wind farm" was pretty cool), I hope this project is significantly modified or rejected. In particular, if any of the components can be seen, or heard, from Virginia City (and to a lesser extent, anywhere along the V & T Railroad line being built), that just does not fit that historical area. I live in the VC Highland Ranches, and although this project would have little or no impact on me, I think it would be a travesty to impact the historical significance of Virginia City (and Comstock area) as proposed.

James Hoeft

2190 Castle Peak Rd

VC Highlands, NV 89521

02/18/2009 Angela Dykema, Third Planet Wind

"Angela Dykema" dykemaa@thirdplanetwind.com

Date: 02/18/2009 01:29 PM

Subject: Comstock Wind Energy Project- Great Basin Wind

Hello,

I am interested in finding out what the COD is for this project.

Thank you,

Angie

Angie Dykema

Project Development Associate

Third Planet Windpower, LLC

940 Southwood Blvd., Suite 201

Incline Village, NV 89451

Email: dykemaa@thirdplanetwind.com

Cell: 775-997-9950

Office: 775-833-9463

Fax: 775-833-9467

www.thirdplanetwind.com

(Embedded image moved to file: pic00900.jpg) TPW logo medium

02/19/2009 Brandon Rittiman

Brandon Rittiman <xx@yy.zzz>

Date: 02/19/2009 03:56 PM

Subject: Public Comment

IN FAVOR

As a person who lives in the Truckee Meadows and who drives by the area of the proposed turbines all the time, I support this project.

The environmental benefits outweigh the detriments of building these structures on BLM land. Anybody who lives near it and thinks the project will be a blight or bad for the land should bear in mind that their home can be viewed as a blight and bad for the land as well.

If we're going to build homes on this land- we have an obligation to power those homes with the resources we have. I'd rather see these turbines go up than more homes.

As for the blight issue, I disagree. If I could afford it- I'd stick a wind turbine on my front lawn.

Thanks,

Brandon Rittiman

Sparks, NV

02/22/2009 Caroline Lowman

xx@yy.zzz

http://www.blm.gov/pgdata/etc/medialib/blm/nv/field_offices/carson_city_field/planning___environmental/new_comstock_wind.Par.82131.File.dat/New%20Comstock%20Wind%20Project%20Initial%20Map%20april2008.pdf

Date: 02/22/2009 04:23 PM

Subject: ?'s on map

Hello,

I am attempting to determine the location of the proposed New Comstock wind towers following the BLM presentation at Virginia City. The legend on the following map identifies "Met towers", "Proposed Met towers", and "Sedar". What are the meanings of "Met" and "Sedar" in this context, please?

Thank you,

Caroline Lowman

02/23/2009 Austin Osborne, Storey County Planning Department

"Austin Osborne" aosborne@storeycounty.org

Date: 02/23/2009 08:13 AM

Subject: Power Strip

BLM,

Unfortunately, I do not remember the name of the presenter at yesterday's (Thursday) Storey County EIS meeting. I believe that she may have left an electrical power-strip behind which may have been hers. Can you please check up on this?

Thanks,

Austin Osborne

Storey County Planner

Austin T. Osborne

Land Use Planner

Storey County Planning Department

Box 526 Virginia City, NV 89440

Office: 775.847.0966

Cell: 775.291.4693

Fax: 775.847.0935

CONFIDENTIALITY DISCLAIMER:

02/27/2009 Ken Adams, PhD, Desert Research Institute

Ken Adams <Ken.Adams@dri.edu>

http://www.dri.edu/People/kadams/

Date: 02/27/2009 01:08 PM

Subject: New comstock wind energy project

Dear Ms. Peterson:

My wife and I, Ms. Sheryl Fontaine, wish to comment on the proposed New Comstock Wind Energy project. We live at 4900 Grande Rd. in the Virginia City Highlands and the view from our living room window is of Orleans Hill and surroundings, which are slated for multiple wind towers. This area is less than one mile from our house, upwind, and in full view. At this point, we would like to say that we support wind energy as part of a comprehensive portfolio of alternative energy options, so long as wind farms are located in appropriate places. The concept of what defines an appropriate place is the focus of this comment.

We understand that wind farms need to be built where the wind resources are, which at first glance may seem to be anywhere in Nevada. According to the Nevada 50 m wind power map (NREL, 2003), however, the resource is primarily limited to mountainous areas in our state. Focusing in on the Virginia Range, the wind potential appears marginal to fair at best so one question is, Why here? Just to the south of the Virginia Range at the northern end of the Pine Nut Range, the wind potential appears to be rated as high as excellent to outstanding to superb (NREL, 2003). Of course, detailed on-site studies would be needed to confirm this potential. There is also a high tension power line traversing the northern Pine Nut Range, which would seemingly be attractive to wind energy companies because of the high cost of building new transmission lines.

Aesthetics is one of the major reasons that we moved to the Highlands and I am guessing that this sentiment is common amongst the residents here. We are able to live in a beautiful, rural setting while at the same time not being too far from Reno. We love the fact that we can go hiking, mountain biking, snowshoeing, and skiing right from our front door, which we regularly do around Orleans Hill and points south. Having that beautiful ridge populated by up to 70 three hundred foot towers and their attendant infrastructure would simply ruin the natural beauty of the place. Can’t these wind farms be located in places far removed from residences?

Perhaps even more so than aesthetics, we are concerned about the potential noise associated with the proposed wind farm. Although we have been told that modern wind turbines are much quieter than ones built ten or twenty years ago, being directly downwind from the project area makes us skeptical. Another major reason we moved up here is for the peace and quiet. The incessant whipping of turbine blades may seriously intrude on this quiet. A recent study on noise associated with wind turbines indicates that large, commercial turbines commonly emit a broad spectrum noise level of about 100 dB (Alberts, 2006; see attached). This level of noise is associated with hearing loss and sleep disturbance. Although noise attenuates with distance, our house is not very far from the proposed project site and is directly downwind. Further, wind turbines emit broad spectrum noise and lower frequencies, which are commonly more annoying to people, attenuate less with distance than higher frequency noise. Therefore, our fear is that if this project goes through our daily lives will be punctuated with the constant buzzing, wooshing, pulsing, sizzling, and thumping so commonly associated with commercial wind farms (Alberts,2006). Not only will this excessive noise be a health/sanity issue if this project goes through, I also suspect that the property values in this part of the highlands will seriously depreciate. Who in their right mind would buy a house in the noisy shadow of a wind farm? Please consider this serious issue in your analysis.

Other concerns that we have about the proposed wind farm include the following:

What is the potential for increased mortality amongst bats, raptors, and migratory bird species and how is this issue being addressed?

Are there any Threatened or Endangered species in the Virginia Range that might be impacted by this project?

Given that Virginia City is designated a National Historic District, is a wind farm looming over the town really a compatible use? It seems that most people visit VC because of its history and the fact that most of the buildings are still in tact; a living ghost town if you will. Detracting from that aesthetic and adding a bunch of noise pollution by placing a wind farm directly above the town will only harm the tourist business, on which VC and the rest of Storey County depends.

In summary, we are not opposed to wind energy so long as the wind farms are properly located. We believe that the proposed New Comstock Wind Energy Project is located too close to residences in Virginia City and the Virginia City Highlands which will affect the aesthetics of the area, cause undo noise pollution, and lower property values. We hope that you will consider these factors when analyzing this proposed project.

Sincerely,

Kenneth D. Adams

Sheryl A. Fontaine

********************************************************

Kenneth D. Adams, Ph.D.

Associate Research Professor

Desert Research Institute

2215 Raggio Parkway

Reno, NV 89512

(775) 673-7345

kadams@dri.edu

(See attached file: AddressingWindTurbineNoise.pdf)

3/03/2009 Austin Osborne, Storey County Planning Department

"Austin Osborne" aosborne@storeycounty.org

Date: 03/03/2009 01:40 PM

cc: "Dean Haymore" <dhaymore@storeycounty.org>, "Pat Whitten" <pwhitten@storeycounty.org>, "Austin Osborne" <aosborne@storeycounty.org>

Subject: EIS Scoping Documents

March 4, 2009

BLM-Carson City District Office

5665 Morgan Mill Road

Carson City, NV 89701

Fax: (775) 885-6147

E-mail: newcomstockwind@blm.gov

Attn: New Comstock Wind EIS Project Manager

Re: EIS Scoping Documents

Dear EIS Project Manager:

In order to achieve sufficient understanding of each component of the Environmental Impact Study (EIS) currently being prepared by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) for Great Basin Wind’s proposed New Comstock Wind Energy Project, Storey County, a Cooperating Partner with BLM in this regard, requests they be allowed to review the EIS Scoping documents indicating participants’ concerns which were brought forth during the EIS Scoping Period.

Securing scoping response from participating Storey County agencies, businesses, and citizens will enable the County to better assess potential environmental and socio-economic impacts that may be generated by said project.

Electronic documents may be sent to Planner Austin Osborne at aosborne@storeycounty.org, by fax at (775) 847-0935, or by mail to Storey County Community Development Department, P.O. Box 526, Virginia City, Nevada 89440.

We appreciate your consideration in this matter. Please do not hesitate to contact me with any questions or concerns at (775) 847-0966.

Respectfully submitted,

Austin T. Osborne

Storey County Planner

cc: Dean Haymore, Storey Community Development Director

Pat Whitten, Storey County Manager

Austin T. Osborne

Land Use Planner

Storey County Planning Department

Box 526 Virginia City, NV 89440

Office: 775.847.0966

Cell: 775.291.4693

Fax: 775.847.0935

CONFIDENTIALITY DISCLAIMER:

(See attached file: Requesting submitted EIS letters 3-2-2009.doc)

{Converted to PDF by JM: Requesting_submitted_EIS_letter_3-2-2009.pdf}

03/11/2009 Eston DeWayne Spain

Eston DeWayne Spain <xx@yy.zzz>

To: "newcomstockwind@blm.gov"

Date: 03/11/2009 12:05 PM

Subject: EIS Mailing List

Hello,

I saw the public hearing last night on television before the commission regarding the Comstock Wind Energy Project and would like to be put on the EIS mailing list. I have studied the EIA process at the University of New Orleans and have participated in EA’s while living in New Orleans. I am a proponent of this wind energy project and would also like to find out what I can do to help this project move forward. I do have experience with attaining a positive public consensus and would also like to offer my assistance in anyway possible with the BLM and/or the Comstock Wind Energy Project. Thank you.

Eston D. Spain

8200 Offenhauser Drive, #115E

Reno, NV, 89511

(xxx)xxx-xxxx

xx@yy.zzz

Be a Geographer wherever you are!

03/15/2009 Nancy Kilian

"Nancy Kilian" <xx@yy.zzz>

To: <Jane_H_Peterson@blm.gov>

Date: 03/15/2009 08:56 PM

cc: <newcomstockwind@blm.gov>, "nancykilian" <xx@yy.zzz>

Subject:

Please read the attached letter.

(See attached file: BLM letter against wind mills.docx)

{Converted to PDF by JM: BLM_letter_against_wind_mills.pdf}

4/06/2009 Jonathan Compton, The Penta Building Group

"Jonathan Compton" jcompton@pentabldggroup.com

jcompton@pentabldggroup.com

Date: 04/06/2009 07:53 AM

Subject: Comstock Wind Mailing List

Please add me to the mailing list for information on this development.

Jonathan Compton, LEED AP

Project Engineer

The Penta Building Group

(775) 745 2722

04/25/2009 no name

xx@yy.zzz

Date: 04/25/2009 07:20 PM