I am perplexed that the opponents of the Redington Wind Farm never mention global warming or energy independence. Neither the trail clubs nor Maine Audubon use these terms on their Web sites or in their literature. Nor, in this age of the Internet, do these organizations seek the opinions of ordinary members such as myself. Rather, decisions are made by “boards” who, in turn, are informed how to vote in meetings to which the public is not invited.

The effects of global warming are quite evident: increased power of hurricanes such as Katrina, growing desertification, melting of glaciers worldwide, disruption of traditional weather patterns, heat crises, increased wildfires. In Maine, we are experiencing warmer winters, early ice-outs, problems with maple syrup production and the appearance of new insects.

America’s lack of energy independence (we now import 60 percent of our petroleum) is evident at every gas station in the nation. To protect our foreign sources, we spend billions to defend dictatorships and fight wars to stabilize the Middle East. Ask your local Maine National Guardsman about that.

The Redington Wind Farm, far from being a project of out-of-state developers (July 15), was conceived in Maine, and nursed along by Maine investors for 10 years. Only when plans were complete and lands secured did Redington seek out-of-state capital.

Global warming and America’s need for energy independence make it absolutely essential for America to proceed with wind energy and other new forms of clean, renewable energy production.

Alfred Padula, Portland