LIVERMORE (KRON) — Plans to re-power a massive wind farm in the East Bay are under fire by environmental groups.
The American Bird Conservatory calls wind turbines in the Altamont pass one of the biggest bird killers in North America.
Last year, a wind farm run by Altamont Winds LLC shut down after conservation groups complained. It is estimated the farm killed about 80 raptors a year, including golden eagles.
Now, there are plans to clear out the old turbines and replace them with newer models.
Neighbors of the project call it a tough issue for environmentalists.
“You’re not going to have it both ways,” Bob Cooper said. “Wind mills are going to generate clean power. They’re also going to kill birds.”
Video shows neighbors rescuing an injured golden eagle near the wind farm a few years ago. The raptor later died.
Under the new agreement with Alameda county, the wind company will pay $580 for every raptor killed.