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Transfer Rain Forest Money to Alternative Energy Center

Scott Romine

The Gazette

February 25, 2006

[Note: This material is copyright by The Gazette, and is reproduced here as a matter of "fair use" for non-commercial, educational purposes only. Any other use may require the prior approval of The Gazette.]


    What exciting news to learn about the biodiesel production facility being planned near Farley, and I’m eager to hear more 

about the anticipated ethanol plant in Washington County. The news has been less appealing for the suggested rain forest project in Coralville as many Iowans lack enthusiasm for the concept.

    May I suggest a change of plan? Let’s divert that money and those project leaders into a new idea. Let’s establish an alternative energy research and education center at the Coralville site. It could be a place for research and development of new forms of energy for the nation, a site for possible production of new fuels and a center for students and their teachers to tour as they view exhibits, sessions, or conferences. Travelers from around the nation would visit this center to learn about the research under way to make America energy independent.

    I leave to the experts all the many fine things a research and education center for alternative energy in American could be. It would be a ‘‘first in the nation’’ place to see. In the meantime, when I want to see a rain forest again, I will go to the very impressive Henry Doorly Zoo in Omaha, Neb. While on my way, I will drive past wind chargers, ethanol plants and all of Iowa’s bounty and wonder why we can’t come up with a better idea of our own.

    Scott Romine
    North English