Wind Farms & Protecting the Ozarks
Why This Matters to Me
I moved to Eureka Springs to enjoy the natural beauty, unique landscapes, and quality of life that make the Ozarks special. Our forests, rolling hills, waterways, and quiet communities are what draw families here and sustain our tourism economy.
That’s why it has been deeply concerning to see once-lush ridgelines altered by wind turbine construction along Highways 905 and 103. The erosion, landscape damage, and loss of scenic character are no longer theoretical — they are already happening.
Standing Up for Our Community
On December 11, 2025, I traveled to Little Rock to speak before the Arkansas Public Service Commission in support of Act 945 as a resident of Eureka Springs. I urged the Commission to protect this law from being weakened and to ensure it remains meaningful and enforceable.
Act 945 was created to safeguard residents, property owners, and communities by balancing energy development with public safety, environmental preservation, and respect for private property rights. Weakening it would set a dangerous precedent and put rural communities at risk.
Protecting Property Rights & Local Voice
Many residents have invested their life savings into their land. Their rights should not be dismissed simply because large corporations promise “big investments.” Private property rights must protect residents just as much as corporations.
Arkansans deserve the ability to enjoy and protect their property as it was purchased. Our natural heritage should not be sacrificed for short-term profit.
Roads, Infrastructure & Public Safety
Wind farm construction brings industrial-scale traffic that rural county roads were never designed to handle.
State law guarantees the public’s right to travel on roads — but that does not automatically grant private companies the right to move oversized turbine blades, heavy cranes, and industrial equipment across small rural roads without conditions. Oversize and overweight loads typically require permits and local approval, and counties regularly place limits when infrastructure is at risk.
Allowing normal car, farm, and emergency traffic is one thing. Allowing heavy industrial construction traffic is something entirely different. These are policy decisions, not unavoidable legal mandates.
As County Judge, I would use the road use permit and agreement process to ensure county roads are protected before heavy industrial traffic is approved. That includes:
- Requiring clear haul routes approved in advance
- Setting weight limits, hours of operation, and safety requirements
- Requiring road condition assessments before construction begins
- Holding developers financially responsible for road repairs and restoration
- Ensuring agreements are transparent and reviewed publicly
This approach allows lawful development while protecting taxpayers, emergency access, and the long-term integrity of county roads.
Contrast: Some past decisions have prioritized speed and convenience for developers over long-term road protection and taxpayer risk. My approach puts public safety, infrastructure, and accountability first.
Protecting county roads is a matter of fiscal responsibility. Preventing damage upfront saves taxpayers from costly repairs later. Learn more about how I will prioritize responsible use of county funds on the Fiscal Responsibility page.
“Many have asked that I not allow Scout Clean Energy to use county roads to construct the massive wind turbines. That suggestion, though it may sound simple enough, would put this county in direct violation of state law.” Current Carroll County Judge David Writer
Real Impacts on Rural Roads
- Design overload: A single wind farm construction season can exceed the 20-year design limits of rural roads.
- Structural damage: Heavy hauling accelerates pavement failure, causing cracking, rutting, and, in some cases, reducing paved roads back to gravel.
- Long-term costs: Repairs fall on taxpayers long after construction ends.
Environmental & Community Impacts
Wind farm development can permanently alter landscapes and ecosystems:
- Wildlife impacts, including documented bird and bat mortality
- Habitat disruption from service roads, clearing, and large concrete pads
- Erosion and deforestation in sensitive areas
- End-of-life waste, as turbine blades are difficult to recycle and often end up in landfills
These impacts deserve honest evaluation and responsible oversight.
A Responsible, Lawful Approach
Wind energy may be part of the future, but it must be pursued lawfully, transparently, and with respect for local communities. Act 945 provides a solid foundation — but only if it is enforced as intended.
As County Judge, I will:
- Uphold state law while defending local infrastructure
- Ensure road use decisions prioritize safety and long-term costs
- Protect property rights and community input
- Demand transparency and accountability in development agreements
Bottom Line
The Ozarks are a unique treasure. Our residents deserve to have their voices heard, their property protected, and their environment preserved.
I will stand up for Act 945, protect our communities, and ensure that growth never comes at the expense of the people who call Carroll County home.