6.03.2004
They're taking the farm
Ok, I don't own a farm. But a few months ago I did throw down a little cash adding my name to a title. The title was for land underneath the proposed Arrowhead-Weston line, and I added my name sort of thinking that Minnesota Power (AKA "The Man") might not like it. As luck would have it, I guess I was right. A few days ago, I recieved notice from Duluth's own Charles Andreson of Andresen & Butterworth on behalf of "The Man", stating that on June 28th he will be in court to condemn my the land and then take it.
I don't really have more at stake than anyone else in this I guess. Increased risk of cancer, leukemia, and other horrid illnesses. Reduced potential for the development of renewables in Minnesota. Less options for where my energy comes from. Further damage to the boreal forests north of us. Forced contribution to the devestation of the Cree commercial fishing economy. Increased greenhouse gas emissions. And it all seems like quite a burdon for a little power line (150 feet wide and 250 miles long) and the few dams (12 more scheduled for construction) that will follow. But I guess money talks, and since I don't have any, there isn't much I can do...
-Josh Wiese, feeling small