Some residents on the Port au Port Peninsula are none-too-pleased with clearcutting now underway as part of World Energy GH2’s proposed wind development project in the area.

The company says scientists and contractors have been granted access to sites on the Port au Port Peninsula over the next six to eight weeks to conduct environmental studies that will include the collection of wind measurements.

The work underway is in preparation for five wind measurement towers, but Darrell Shelley of the Port au Port Environmental Transparency Committee says they’re shocked by the degree of clearcutting taking place. He says members have traveled to two sites—one near Mainland and the other near West Bay. Video taken shows large areas that have been completely cleared of trees.

He says it appears to be as large as 2 or 3 acres of land completely cleared out.

The company says environmental studies and wind measurements are being taken to determine whether or not the project will proceed. Botany, wildlife and water experts are also on-site to study the environment in the project areas. World Energy GH2 says any wood cut will be made available to community members for personal use.

World Energy GH2 says residents will be able to travel through the area as needed with signage and a flag person on site.