PHOTOS OF THE WEEK: WIND TURBINES SCAR VIEW FROM MCCAIN VALLEY’S CARRIZO GORGE OVERLOOK

October 28, 2012 (San Diego’s East County) – Construction of the Tule Wind project in McCain Valley has not yet begun, though developer Iberdrola has pledged to preserve the most scenic portion of views across the Carrizo Gorge.  But photographer Tom Lemon stopped by  McCain Valley’s famed Carrizo  Gorge Overlook this weekend in McCain Valley, discovering to his dismay that wind turbines at Pattern Energy’s Ocotillo Express wind project in Ocotillo are plainly visible across the formerly pristine vista, gateway to three designated wilderness areas. 

BLM rules do not allow the agency to consider lost views when determining siting of energy projects, unfortunately for the many who cherish wilderness.

Above is the new view, with turbines across the horizon:

Here are images of this inspirational place, known to locals as “our Grand Canyon” before: 

Just how large is each turbine?   Over 450 feet! Note size of this under-construction turbine compared to vehicles: 

To read more about McCain Valley, a federal resource conservation area managed by the U.S. Bureau of Land Management, and the Carrizo  Gorge Overlook, visit http://www.desertusa.com/mccain/oct_mcain.html