Ontbirders know about or have visited Amherst Island in eastern Lake Ontario near Kingston, Ontario. It's world famous for raptors and includes the "Owl Woods" where many birders have seen their life owls of several species. During years when meadow vole numbers peak it supports hundreds of wintering hawks and owls. It is proposed that 36 massively tall wind turbines be constructed on the island, four of which will be close to the Owl Woods. According to the Toronto Star newspaper adjacent Wolfe Island has the second highest bird mortality in North America caused by wind turbines. Amherst is a quiet and serene rural island, and is one of the treasures of the birding world. Are we about to alter greatly, both ecologically and esthetically, one of the most important birding areas in North America?
If you have concerns about the future of Amherst Island, please contact Ontario Premier Kathleen Wynne. https://correspondence.premier.gov.on.ca/en/feedback/default.aspx Jean Iron and Ron Pittaway Toronto, Ontario _______________________________________________ ONTBIRDS is presented by the Ontario Field Ornithologists - the provincial birding organization. Send bird reports to birdalert@ontbirds.ca For information about ONTBIRDS including how to unsubscribe visit http://www.ofo.ca/site/page/view/information.ontbirdssetup
