Midwest Gov's Assoc. Hopes to Get Local Economies Out of "Dinosaur Age"

Posted on Thursday, November 15, 2007

Getting our energy plans and local economies out of the "dinosaur age." That's the hope of some grassroots groups for the Midwest Governor's Association energy summit, underway in Milwaukee this week. Frank James with Dakota Rural Action, a South Dakota farm group, says it's important the discussions stay focused on programs and technologies that combat global warming. He's hopeful Governor Rounds will join with other states in the region to reach an agreement promoting renewable energy and addressing climate change.

James says the two most logical places for the Governors to focus their talks are electrical wind generation and biofuels. He says rural states like South Dakota, with many at-risk communities, stand to benefit the most from the promotion of renewable energy.

James says what's good for the environment is good for farm country. This week's summit is being hosted by Wisconsin Governor Jim Doyle, and Minnesota Governor Tim Pawlenty.