www.palousewind.com
SITUATION
First Wind is a Boston Based independent wind energy company focused on the development, ownership, and operations of wind energy projects from Maine to Maui. When First Wind decided to permit the Palouse Wind project, a 105 MW energy facility on the rolling hills of Eastern Washington, opposition formed, rallying under the banners of wildlife protection and human health concerns.
STRATEGY
The immediate need was to appropriately introduce the company and educate the community on the benefits of the project. Through a campaign focused on community outreach, media management, and government relations, the project gained widespread support and the opposition never spread beyond a few individuals. First Wind became a partner in the community by taking such steps as a science-based energy education program with local schools, participating in local fairs, hosting events in the community, and by establishing a permanent office in the farm town Oakesdale. The focus of our strategy was simply sharing the true message about what a wind farm of this size could mean to the community of Oakesdale and Whitman County.
OUTCOME
During the Environmental Impact Statement scoping period and at the public hearing for the conditional use permit, positive comments from the public were tremendous, outweighing negative comments five to one. The broad base of support and community understanding of the project was a determining factor in the issuance of a permit by the hearings examiner. Construction began in October of 2011 with completion of the project expected in the fall of 2012.
“Gallatin’s first-hand knowledge of the regions demographics and political landscapewas instrumental in our efforts to obtain a permit for the Palouse Wind project. We implemented a strategy that allowed us to educate the community and stakeholders about the merits of introducing a large-scale wind energy project to Whitman County. We continue to be impressed with the quality of work from Gallatin Public Affairs and would recommend their services to any company looking to get a project permitted.”
Benjamin Fairbanks, Western Regional Business Development Director, First Wind Energy, Portland, OR
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2009 Case Study - Helena Food Share
The Excellence in Nonprofit Communications (ENC) program was launched in 2008 after Toni Broadbent, owner of Allegra Print & Imaging in Helena, approached MNA Executive Director, Brian Magee, about ways to assist local nonprofits in strengthening their communication efforts. Toni and Brian approached other potential partners who could play a key role in providing consulting services, products, or financial assistance to the program.
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