Wind project proposed in Henderson

Representative of fledgling N.J. investment group meets town supervisor, one landowner

HENDERSON — A fledgling investment group is eyeing the town as a location for a wind power project.

Ronald J. Scrudato has talked to town Supervisor Clyde E. Moore and one landowner. He represents an investment firm so young, it's name isn't set yet. But so far, it's called Delfea and it is based in New Jersey.

"It's really very premature," Mr. Scrudato said. "It's looking to invest in wind energy development."

Mr. Scrudato, who has a doctorate in geology, ran SUNY Oswego's Environmental Research Center and has been involved in environmental issues, such as hazardous waste site remediation, for the last 30 years.

Mr. Scrudato said he will come to Henderson to talk to landowners who are interested in both small and large wind development. Mr. Moore and Mr. Scrudato have not yet arranged a meeting time and date with the public.

Delfea is interested in leasing from landowners with at least 25 acres whose neighbors also own at least 25 acres and would be interested in development.

There are areas in Henderson with consistent wind speeds of at least 12 miles per hour at the height of turbines.

Mr. Moore said Mr. Scrudato is considering the ridge along Route 71 and Ridge Road. Mr. Moore suggested Town Barn Road.

"The wind's always blowing there," he said.

Delfea would need wind speed data collected through test towers for at least one year at potential turbine locations.

The company would offer leases of 50 to 100 years, with up to $5,000 per year per turbine for the property owner, but the compensation would depend on the productivity of the turbine.

The town has a zoning law related to wind power development. In part, the law bans wind turbines on the waterfront and allows commercial wind farms in agricultural zones. The law stipulates: "No wind turbine tower facility shall be installed in any location that would substantially detract from or block the view of a portion of a scenic viewshed, as viewed from any public road right-of-way, public body of water, or publicly owned land."