FROM THE EDITOR

BY KYLEE COLEMAN EDITOR KYLEE COLEMAN

Did you know that seven cooperative principles guide your local electric co-op’s daily work and mission? Each principle contributes to the cooperative difference — the “it” factor — that sets it apart from other utility companies. Maybe you’ve experienced this difference already, but I want to highlight how two specific cooperative principles impact you and your family: “Education and Training” and “Concern for Community.”

Your local electric co-op recognizes that kids are the leaders of the future. It invests in education that benefits kids, families, and their local communities. Some examples of this include presenting electrical safety demonstrations at schools and community events; donating time and money to local nonprofit educational organizations and programs; sponsoring junior livestock sales; and giving college scholarships to graduating seniors.

When co-op principles are combined in action, it results in powerful and lasting change for co-op members and communities. I encourage you to look closely — I’ll bet you discover the cooperative difference for yourself. Connect with your local electric co-op on its website to learn more about cooperative principles and programs.

Kylee Coleman is the editor of Colorado Country Life magazine.

I have read that if the blade on the power windmills is painted, the birds won’t fly into it.

Is that true?

If so, why isn’t it required for all of the windmill farms?

Gail Shepherd, Pueblo West San Isabel Electric Association member

EDITOR’S NOTE:

The visual effect we experience when a fast-moving object appears blurry is called “motion smear.” Painting one of the three turbine blades black could potentially reduce bird collisions by providing a visual cue and reduce motion smear. But keep in mind that these visual cues for birds are only effective during the daytime. Certain studies are promising but have not been duplicated; there is no firm evidence that painting blades reduces the number of bird collisions with wind turbines.

To learn more about Colorado’s electric cooperatives’ efforts to protect birds, visit www.coloradocountrylife.coop/ safeguarding-wildlife.

Editor, 5400 Washington St., Denver, CO 80216 or kcoleman@coloradocountrylife.org. Include name and address. Letters may be edited for length.