There shouldn't be any surprise that a town named after an ancient Squamish Nation word for "big wind" is dabbling in tapping the wind as a source of energy.
Squamish is doing just that with the announcement this week that a major wind energy pilot project will take place in the community.
The project will test the quality of the wind as an energy producing-resource and it will also explore how residents feel about hosting wind energy towers.
The District of Squamish is working with the Community Futures Development Corporation of Howe Sound (CFDCHS). The first stage of the pilot project is partially funded by Western Economic Diversification Canada.
"We're especially excited about this initiative," said Jeff Dawson, the CFDCHS general manager. He added that the project could create long-term employment while respecting the social, economic and environmental values of the area.
"Ultimately this project will be a tangible way for our community to move into a new era of sustainable development," said Mayor Ian Sutherland. "This project will lead us to the creation of a new sector that cannot only create jobs for Squamish, but offers great environmental benefit well beyond our borders."
A group of experts were hired to provide professional and technical guidance throughout the project.
Squamish's Economic Development Office is working with the experts and a company called Sea Breeze Power Corp. to research and analyze Squamish's wind energy potential.
A public information open house is set for March 23 at the Sea to Sky Hotel from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m.
