THE coastal waters of the UK have some of the most promising sites for wind farms in Europe. But all too often, Nic Fleming reports (快猫短视频, 6 December 2003, p 30), such developments face objections from the Ministry of Defence (MoD) and civilian air traffic controllers. The problem is that the farms may affect radar systems. I asked Ivor Caplin, the defence minister with responsibility for environmental policy, for his view.
He pointed out that when developers provide the MoD with a proposed location and configuration of their wind farm or turbine, they are advised whether the MoD is likely to object. Each proposal is considered by at least eight separate specialists, covering airfield radar, air-defence radar, low flying and communications. All proposals are appraised against the need to maintain operational defence capabilities and safety. The MoD objects only when the wind farm or turbine would constitute an unacceptable danger. The MoD will also negotiate with a developer or landowner, if they request it, to see if changes in design or location can be agreed upon, Caplin said.
The minister emphasised that while the safety of crew, aircraft and people on the ground are paramount, the MoD is aware of the government鈥檚 aim to produce 10 per cent of the UK鈥檚 electricity from green sources by 2010, and makes every effort to help achieve this. The MoD is involved in a steering group on wind energy with the Civil Aviation Authority, National Air Traffic Services and the British Wind Energy Association, and chaired by the Department of Trade and Industry.
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The Defence Estates Agency is now organising numerous seminars to bring together developers and MoD experts to discuss specific offshore wind projects, Caplin said. All UK wind farm and turbine developers are welcome to attend.
SUDDEN oak death, caused by the organism Phytophthora ramorum, has spread huge alarm in southern England. The disease produces a canker of the bark, leading trees to weep a dark sap. It can eventually work its way right round the trunk, and though it does not kill trees it stunts their growth, leaving them vulnerable to other infections (快猫短视频, 13 December 2003, p 5).
My friend Lord Clark, the former MP for Colne Valley and now chair of the Forestry Commission, says that contrary to wide belief, the threat comes not from North America but from the Far East. The commission takes the infestation very seriously and has begun a systematic survey of woodlands throughout the UK, giving priority to areas thought to be at greatest risk. Clark assures me that the government has tightened up import controls on known hosts. The European Standing Committee on Plant Health recently agreed that the European Union鈥檚 emergency measures should remain in place and be strengthened in key areas.
I urge anyone worried that they have found the telltale signs of infection to consult the Forestry Commission website . Shades of Dutch elm disease!
