If you want to preserve farmland, preserve farmers.
What we’re seeing across the midwest, for both wind and solar energy, is that the additional income, predictable and drought proof, is helping keep farmers on the land. Above, CBS News report on cranberry growers in Massachusetts, who have added solar to their mix, and are able to grow berries between the panels – dual use.
Below, University of Michigan researcher Sara Mills discusses her research in Wind farm communities across Michigan. With wind turbines, farmers derive additional income from the wind, but also continue farming normally – a win-win.