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Laura Rose Clawson
Director of Marketing & Outreach
Email: lroseclawson@tnc.org
The Nature Conservancy released the following statement in response to the news that Kansas Governor Laura Kelly reaffirmed the Tallgrass Heartland wind moratorium region of the Flint Hills.
Rob Manes, Kansas director of The Nature Conservancy said "We applaud Governor Kelly's proclamation to continue the moratorium on the development of wind power infrastructure in the previously established Tallgrass Heartland region of the Flint Hills. This moratorium dates back to 2004 and has consistently received enthusiastic bipartisan support, demonstrating that Kansans can come together to protect our valuable shared natural resources.
The Nature Conservancy actively supports the rapid deployment of low-impact renewable energy in Kansas and throughout the Great Plains. However, wind energy takes a lot of land and, if the projects are improperly sited, they threaten some of our most special places and the unique wildlife of the region.
Fortunately, robust wind energy and abundant wildlife do not need to be at odds. Our science shows we can meet and exceed ambitious renewable energy goals without developing the last large expanse of tallgrass prairie in the world."
Fortunately, robust wind energy and abundant wildlife do not need to be at odds.
The Nature Conservancy is a global conservation organization dedicated to conserving the lands and waters on which all life depends. Guided by science, we create innovative, on-the-ground solutions to our world's toughest challenges so that nature and people can thrive together. We are tackling climate change, conserving lands, waters and oceans at an unprecedented scale, providing food and water sustainably and helping make cities more sustainable. Working in 72 countries and territories: 38 by direct conservation impact and 34 through partners, we use a collaborative approach that engages local communities, governments, the private sector, and other partners. To learn more, visit www.nature.org or follow @nature_press on Twitter.