One of the more vexing aspects of the ongoing development of alternative energy resources (something most everyone agrees is good) is the problem of how to get this energy from solar, wind, and other plants to people homes. The answer to this question usually involves building new transmission lines over public property, often state parks and other natural lands. The latest theater where this issue is playing out is in one of the state’s most precious parks, Anza-Borrego Desert State Park in Southern California.

Back in 2005, San Diego Gas & Electric proposed running 150 miles of transmission lines carrying solar or wind energy to San Diego on a path that would take it right through the Anza-Borrego Desert State Park. Greenspace describes the issues in greater detail.

The debate is particularly interesting to Audubon California because the Anza-Borrego is considered one of the state’s most significant Important Bird Areas. Among the many species that call this area home are Least Bell’s Vireo, Summer Tanager, Long-eared Owl, Northern Harrier, and Vermilion Flycather. Many of the birds native to the Anza-Borrego are on the Audubon Watchlist.