The Science Ain't Enough Folks!

One problem with the Falmouth turbine debate is that the science regarding the effects of turbines on human health is far from conclusive.  Sure, studies have been done but virtually all of them “pull their punches”.  They state clearly that the jury is still out.  When I review that science, I’m forced to say: 

                “I can’t form an opinion based on that!”

I’ll explain more thoroughly below but this is why I recommend that, if possible, people should speak to the neighbors who say they are suffering.  Seek information first hand.

It may surprise readers to know that when I first began considering this issue about 3 years ago, I was VERY pro-turbine.  I have been a very strong supporter of Cape Wind for years.  There, I’ve been motivated by the unending string of unfounded, exaggerated and hysterical criticisms:  Birds dropping like flies, deafness in right whales, planes falling from the sky and ferries going to the bottom (pardon my exaggeration).  At first, I presumed that the opposition to the Falmouth turbines was similar.  I even organized a group of friends to gather data by listening at various spots at random times.  Over a month of listening and recording results, we heard next to nothing.  My preconceived notion seemed to be confirmed.

But then I met my 1st objecting neighbor at a coffee shop.  She described how she was very enthusiastic about the turbines until #2 began turning and her young son couldn’t sleep.  As we spoke concern for her son was written across her face.  In person this woman was VERY credible.  She got me thinking.  Since then, I’ve spoken personally to two other neighbors.  Back when I spoke to them, I was still skeptical.  Using my best over-analytical manner I poked and prodded at their stories and found that they held up.  I found these people to be credible as well.

It took me awhile, but after consideration I decided that these people were actually suffering.  Now, if there had been solid science arguing against those people, I would have been more skeptical.  But there wasn’t.  So I changed sides.

I strongly recommend speaking to the objecting neighbors for one reason and one reason only: 

The science isn’t enough folks:  It’s too inconclusive.  So inconclusive that it is very easy to use it to bolster whatever is your preconceived notion.  Talking to objecting neighbors is the BEST way to obtain solid information upon which to base an opinion here.  Look them in the eye, listen to them, be skeptical and then decide for yourself if they seem credible.

If you’re a Falmouth resident, this can be done.  I’m sure Mark Cool would be glad to help any open minded person make such a connection.