| Assisting communities adjust to change is crucial in ensuring that successful, vibrant communities continue to flourish. Recent studies have suggested that a lack of community involvement in planning stages, uncertainty regarding proposals, place attachment and NIMBY (Not-In-My-Backyard) are some factors used to explain resistance to wind development (Jones & Eiser, 2009; 2010; Swofford & Slattery, 2010). This research studies perceptions and support levels held by residents in four townships of Huron County, MI of wind farm development. The aim of this study was to determine whether proximity to a wind turbine, ownership of land, and knowledge of wind energy influenced perceptions of and support of wind farm development. Social exchange theory aided in the interpretation of the research results. Social, economic and environmental belief factors were tested to evaluate their role in shaping perceptions and support. Data were collected using the mixed methods of interviews of stakeholders and mail surveys to landowners (n=497 respondents, 50% response rate). The results suggested proximity, amount of land owned, and self-rated knowledge of wind energy were not related to perceptions of or support for wind farm development. Social beliefs about positive outcomes were strongly related to perceptions of wind farm development, followed by economic beliefs about outcomes of wind farm development. Respondents who were neutral in their opinions before development tended to perceive wind farms negatively after construction. Social and environmental beliefs about positive outcomes of wind turbines were strongly related to support for wind farm development, yet concerns regarding impact on the environment, economy and people existed. |
