The board of directors and staff of the Friends of the Mad River (FMR)
have not taken a formal position on hydropower generally. The FMR
recognize that this issue is very complex. Each specific hydropower
project presents a variety of environmental, economic, social and
cultural impacts, from impacts to aquatic and riparian habitat to
public safety concerns. FMR also recognizes that hydropower can be an
attractive "low carbon" alternative to energy produced using fossil
fuels (although research indicates that methane produced during the
decomposition of submerged vegetation at large hydropower dams is a
significant source of greenhouse gases).
FMR is committed first to the conservation of energy and second to the
development of renewable energy sources. Depending upon the particular
situation, hydropower may or may not be the best alternative for energy
generation. Therefore, the Friends will carefully review and consider
the specific circumstances surrounding each project before taking a
position on its development.
Caitrin Noel
Watershed Coordinator
Friends of the Mad River
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