Alyssa Thomas, Environment and Technology Studies
Intern, Carleton College
Interview - May 8, 2003.
Relationship to Northfield
- Carleton sees itself as a "role model and leader" of the community.
- The college feels a responsibility to use its resources to benefit
the community.
- The project has strengthened the relationship between the city and
the college.
Reasons for Project
- There is significant pressure from students on the institution to
be "environmentally responsible."
- The college's participation helps NSD, another educational institution
and a pillar of the community.
- The college's ownership of a wind turbine might become a factor attracting
students to the institution.
Key Aspects of the Project
- The construction, operation and ownership of the project will put
money into Northfield's economy.
- "People want this." The project is grassroots. As Ms. Thomas puts
it, the project is a beneficial exchange between the college and the larger
community. Each community member is saying to the other, "You can help us
decide what we want Northfield to look like."