A 50 kilowatt wind turbine was installed at the Conard Environmental Research Area (CERA) in January 2007. CERA, which also relies on geothermal energy, is the first academic building in Iowa to receive a gold LEED environmental rating. An ad hoc committee comprised of staff, faculty, and students is also exploring the feasibility of the installation of one or two large turbines close to campus. Two studies of wind speeds in areas close enough to directly supply the college campus with energy show extended (but finite) pay back periods. Keep posted for more information as the committee proceeds with its work!