To The Editor:
I am writing in reference to your article and editorial about the Warren and Waitsfield proposals to create solar arrays that would supply sustainable energy to many of their downtown village buildings.
I would agree wholeheartedly that this is an idea whose time has come. We simply have to move without hesitation to a point where each and every citizen is fully aware and involved in the pressing issue of our day – climate change and its destructive effect on our environment.
I am writing, however, about sighting. As these new energy ideas arise, we should review each for its benefits and its negative effects as well. The prime resource of our Valley is its signature beauty. It is the engine driving the visitor, hospitality and second home industries and, thus, the economic viability of our very special home. It also makes our lives just so much better.
Warren has chosen a well-conceived site with southern exposure, hidden from Route 100 and the scenic routes, yet perhaps even raising the sustainability awareness of children attending their school.
Waitsfield is considering another good possibility – at the top of Tremblay Road, well off Route 100. Their other consideration, however, in town and along Route 100, would be a prime example of the type of mistakes we cannot keep making. Similar to the billboard-like solar trackers spread down The Valley, solar arrays are very capable of adding to the sprawl and distracting from our vital historic beauty.
If we throw away our heritage of renowned beauty in our built and natural environments, we cannot get it back. We should respect it, protect it, and hold it dear.
Greg Schipa
Warren
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