Jordanville Monks Oppose Massive Wind Development

Photo: WKTV, Utica, New York

JORDANVILLE — Holy Trinity Monastery in Jordanville is facing a proposed wind-energy development that monastery supporters say threatens its religious life and historic setting. Monastery members recently staged peaceful protests in Richfield Springs after learning of a planned landowner event tied to the project. Residents and monastics gathered first in Jordanville before relocating their demonstration when the event venue changed.

Members of the Jordanville community staged a protest against the proposed wind project last week. Photo: Courtesy photo

A visit to the monastery by Alexandra Fasulo, President of the American Land Rescue Fund, described it as a striking look into a “thriving community,” as concerns continue to grow over how the monastery will suffer from the wind-energy project.

Fasulo, who toured the monastery with Archimandrite Nektarios, said she was given access to the grounds, including worship spaces, cemeteries, living quarters, an apiary, and the on-site Russian history museum, which she said, “did not disappoint.” She also encouraged others to visit, noting the depth of daily monastic life and the strong sense of continuity within the community.

At the center of local opposition is the proposed Rolling Hills Wind project. Archimandrite Nektarios warned that the development would interfere with the monastery’s spiritual life and landscape, telling local news: “We have a very historic and religious attachment to be able to see and look to the east unobstructed . . . is it going to flicker out the sun every morning?” Critics argue the project disregards religious freedom and community concerns. 

Archimandrite Nektarios gave a tour of the monastery to Alexandra Fasulo, President of the American Land Rescue Fund. Photo: Alexandra Fasulo/Facebook

The Rolling Hills Wind project, backed by ORES, is described as spanning tens of thousands of acres and potentially surrounding the monastery. Plans call for 70 to 74 turbines near the site, raising concerns about visual disruption and environmental harm. The project is also reported as a 250-megawatt development, with opponents warning the project may harm local wildlife and result in the loss of more than 17,000 acres of natural habitat. Opponents continue to organize demonstrations as debate intensifies.

Previously, the UOJ reported that Bp. Luke issued a public letter calling for prayers and organized opposition to the project.

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