Wind-powered Casino?

Okay, few think of "green" when they think of gambling, but patrons will be welcomed by a wind-turbine come August. Xcel energy ( coal and nuclear power ) is their primary source of energy , which I believe is supplemented by a hydrocarbon-based generator during peak demand. The Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux have been very wise in building up their community's infrastructure (i.e. their fire station, water systems, wetland restoration, health-care ). Now they are getting into the energy business, and doing it in an environmentally sound way.

I have been a patron of Xcel for many years, and a member of their Windsource program. So I am supporting wind even if I am not able to install one in my backyard. Many Minnesotans probably think this is too expensive, but it costs me less than $5 a month! Now when I initially started using Windsource in 2002, it cost my almost $8. But wind energy is cheaper now in comparison to oil, natural gas, and coal.

They will be installing the 2-megawatt wind-turbine during their annual Pow Wow known as Wacipi which will be August 15,16, and 17th. Unfortunately, the previous years I always had my National Guard drill during this time. Last year, it was Josiah's birthday and we had other plans. But this year, I would really like to see this. I live near Little Earth Community in East Phillips and go to Mother's Day Pow Wow, but SMSC has a much bigger venue.

While it has been said that the wind-turbine energy will be used by residents of the community residents, it could be a model for replacing the inefficient/expensive oil-powered generators at Mystic Lake and Little Six casinos and hotel. What is obvious by all of these positive developments in the Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community is that this is only the beginning. A more sustainable business built on renewable resources and local assets are key to SMSC's long-term prosperity. Too bad the rest of Scott County has chosen an opposing route.