Topic: Social Issues / Type: Sound Recording Nonmusical / Location: / Subject Headings: Electric Lines Poles and Towers

1. Interview with Charles L. Anderson, Minnesota Powerline Oral History Project, Litchfield, Minnesota

Creator:: Anderson, Charles L.
Date Created:: 1979-02-14
Description:: Biographical Information: Anderson was President, board of directors of Cooperative Power Association. He was a farmer in Litchfield, Meeker County. Subjects discussed: Background. Impact of powerline on the area. Structure of Meeker Cooperative Light and CPA. Relationship of CPA with UPA. Mid-Continent Area Power Pool. Events leading to the Powerline project. Choice of a DC line vs. a AC line. Determining the need for more power. Opposition to the line-anticipating; reaction to; meeting with leaders. Financing the project. Vandalism and the subsequent costs. Effectiveness of hearing process. Being grandfathered out of siting process. Health and safety issues. Science court. Lawsuits. Use of security guards. Handling of controversy by the media. Government Accounting Office study. Future needs for energy. Impact of controversy on future powerlines. Mankato line. Establishment of and reaction to Rural Electrification Administration.
Contributing Institution:: Minnesota Historical Society
Type:: Sound Recording Nonmusical
Format:: Oral histories

2. Interview with Willard Anderson, Minnesota Powerline Oral History Project, Benson, Minnesota

Creator:: Anderson, Willard
Date Created:: 1978-01-03
Description:: Biographical Information: Anderson was manager for Agralite Cooperative in Benson, Swift County. Subjects discussed: Role as manager for Agralite Cooperative; function and structure of Agralite as a cooperative; how cooperatives have planned for future power needs. Cooperative Power Association, United Power Association and the Cooperative-United project-involvement with Mid-Continent Area Power Pool; planning of plant; determining need for plant; communication problems between planners and farmers; controversy over Cooperative-United transmission line. CPA-board vs. representatives of cooperatives; public relations. Feasibility of building underground plant. Health and safety issues. Obtaining easements. Future impact of the powerline controversy.
Contributing Institution:: Minnesota Historical Society
Type:: Sound Recording Nonmusical
Format:: Oral histories

3. Interview with Robert S. Banks, Minnesota Powerline Oral History Project

Creator:: Banks, Robert S.
Date Created:: 1978-03-13
Description:: Biographical Information: Banks earned a graduate degree in environmental health at the University of Minnesota. While earning his degree, he began working part-time for the power plant siting staff of the Environmental Quality Board. After obtaining his degree, he worked as a senior engineer and chief of the section of environmental health impact analysis for the Health Department. He was the author of the health study report on powerline construction. Banks went on to be a research fellow with the School of Public Health at the University of Minnesota. Subjects discussed: Background. Position and responsibilities at the Minnesota Dept. of Health. Involvement with project to study transmission line. CURE (Counties United for a Rural Environment) petition to Environmental Quality Board board. New York Public Service Commission and proceeding over health and safety aspects of two proposed 765 kilovolt AC lines. How health report was developed and its recommendations. Russian studies. AC line vs. DC line. Difficulty in proving health hazards. Role of the state in dealing with line. Possible ways for health dept. to do research on line. Usefulness of science court. How citizens can put pressure on state to bring action against powerline. Media impact. Issues regarding effectiveness of state agencies in responding to public concerns.
Contributing Institution:: Minnesota Historical Society
Type:: Sound Recording Nonmusical
Format:: Oral histories

4. Interview with Nancy C. Barsness, Minnesota Powerline Oral History Project, Cyrus, Minnesota

Creator:: Barsness, Nancy C.
Date Created:: 1979-02-20
Description:: Biographical Information: Barsness was a farmer from Cyrus, Pope County. She freelanced as a reporter on the powerline controversy for KMRS Radio and several newspapers in Pope County. Subjects discussed: Getting involved in the powerline controversy. Survey-conducting surveys; changes in second survey; results of; additional comments on. Working as a newsreporter. Darrell Mulroy incident. Runestone Electic Cooperative-trying to work with the co-op; members vs. board of directors; bylaws; reforming the structure; organizing special meeting; co-op as big business instead of representing the people; relationship to CPA. Relationship between CPA and UPA. Vandalism costs. Media-working with; overall handling of issue. Governor's involvement-role; working with him; science court. Opposition tactics. Impact of issue on self and people in the area. Issues for people in controversy-troopers; health and safety hazards; placement of towers; difficulty of communicating with utilities. Types of protesters and their issues. CPA and UPA impressions of the issues. Communicating with Bob Sheldon of CPA. Communicating with state officials and police. Working with opponents. Communication between protesters and utilities, governor, legislators. Turning points in protest.
Contributing Institution:: Minnesota Historical Society
Type:: Sound Recording Nonmusical
Format:: Oral histories

5. Interview with Nancy C. Barsness, Minnesota Powerline Oral History Project, Cyrus, Minnesota

Creator:: Barsness, Nancy C.
Date Created:: 1979-02-20
Description:: Biographical Information: Barsness was a farmer from Cyrus, Pope County. She freelanced as a reporter on the powerline controversy for KMRS Radio and several newspapers in Pope County. Subjects discussed: Getting involved in the powerline controversy. Survey-conducting surveys; changes in second survey; results of; additional comments on. Working as a newsreporter. Darrell Mulroy incident. Runestone Electic Cooperative-trying to work with the co-op; members vs. board of directors; bylaws; reforming the structure; organizing special meeting; co-op as big business instead of representing the people; relationship to CPA. Relationship between CPA and UPA. Vandalism costs. Media-working with; overall handling of issue. Governor's involvement-role; working with him; science court. Opposition tactics. Impact of issue on self and people in the area. Issues for people in controversy-troopers; health and safety hazards; placement of towers; difficulty of communicating with utilities. Types of protesters and their issues. CPA and UPA impressions of the issues. Communicating with Bob Sheldon of CPA. Communicating with state officials and police. Working with opponents. Communication between protesters and utilities, governor, legislators. Turning points in protest.
Contributing Institution:: Minnesota Historical Society
Type:: Sound Recording Nonmusical
Format:: Oral histories

6. Interview with Charles Berg, Minnesota Powerline Oral History Project, Chokio, Minnesota

Creator:: Berg, Charles
Date Created:: 1977-06-13
Description:: Biographical Information: Berg was born and raised in Traverse County. He lived and operated a farm in Chokio, Stevens County. From 1973 through 1976 he served in the State Senate. Subjects discussed: Background; role in Senate and involvement with powerline controversy; Environmental Quality Council; eminent domain; legislation process; why powerline controversy began; 1973 siting law and the resulting problems; meeting with power companies and communicating potential problems; health and safety concerns; position over controversy as a politician; solutions to controversy; and concluding remarks.
Contributing Institution:: Minnesota Historical Society
Type:: Sound Recording Nonmusical
Format:: Oral histories

7. Interview with Wendell Bradley, Minnesota Powerline Oral History Project, St. Peter, Minnesota

Creator:: Bradley, Wendell
Date Created:: 1978-03-19
Description:: Biographical Information: Bradley was a professor of physics at Gustavus Adolphus College in St. Peter, Minnesota. He was involved in Coalition of Rural Environmental Groups. Subjects discussed: Background; involvement with Coalition of Rural Environmental Groups; 400+ line controversy; state agency involvement; need hearing; utilities and energy needs; Bradley's energy needs predictions; governor and state agency response to needs predictions report; health and safety factors; effect of controversy on people opposing the line; the role of the media.
Contributing Institution:: Minnesota Historical Society
Type:: Sound Recording Nonmusical
Format:: Oral histories

8. Interview with Ronnie Brooks, Minnesota Powerline Oral History Project

Creator:: Brooks, Ronnie
Date Created:: 1979-08-09
Description:: Biographical Information: Brooks was originally from New Jersey. She earned her undergraduate degree at the University of Michigan and did her graduate work in political science at Michigan State. After graduating, she taught at Michigan State and Lansing Community College. In 1971 she moved to Minnesota. She worked for the State University Board, headed Senator McGovern's presidential campaign effort, and was director of majority research for the Senate. In 1976 she became an aide for Governor Rudy Perpich and was also the governor's representative to the Minnesota Environmental Quality Board. Subjects discussed: Background; role in Governor Perpich's administration in powerline issue; Governor Perpich's handling of the issues; Governor Wendell Anderson's administration in handling controversy; legislators vs. the governor on making decisions; legislative action taken; science court; protest movement; what it was like working for Governor Perpich; the media's role; and the usefulness of the public forum in environmental issues.
Contributing Institution:: Minnesota Historical Society
Type:: Sound Recording Nonmusical
Format:: Oral histories

9. Interview with George W. Crocker, Minnesota Powerline Oral History Project, Lowry, Minnesota

Creator:: Crocker, George W.
Date Created:: 1979-02-21
Description:: Biographical Information: Crocker was from Minneapolis and graduated from Stillwater High School. He attended the University of Minnesota for several years when he became involved in the anti-war movement. He worked as a draft counselor and anti-draft organizer for the Twin Cities draft information center. He was living in Lowry, Pope County during the powerline protest. Subjects discussed: Background; involvement in 1960s anti-war movement; becoming involved in powerline issue; reaction to powerline controversy; cooperative decision making process; decentralized energy; development of energy needs; soft vs. hard technology; usefulness of non-violent protest tactics; significance of protest movements; relationship of powerline investment and dome stadiums; personal role in controversy; utilities strategy; impact of the media; Tesla Project; and developing alternative energy resources.
Contributing Institution:: Minnesota Historical Society
Type:: Sound Recording Nonmusical
Format:: Oral histories

10. Interview with Ira D. Emmons, Minnesota Powerline Oral History Project, Pope County, Minnesota

Creator:: Emmons, Ira D.
Date Created:: 1977-04-29
Description:: Biographical Information: Emmons was sheriff of Pope County. Subjects discussed: Police department's first involvement with the powerline controversy; potential conflict with utilities surveying; dealing with confrontations; local people's reaction to police; why confrontation occurred; reaction of townspeople to issue; view of current situation; Governor Perpich; media coverage.
Contributing Institution:: Minnesota Historical Society
Type:: Sound Recording Nonmusical
Format:: Oral histories

11. Interview with David Fjoslien, Minnesota Powerline Oral History Project, Brandon, Minnesota

Creator:: Fjoslien, David
Date Created:: 1978-02-01
Description:: Biographical Information: Fjoslien was a native of Brandon, Minnesota and he owned and operated a farm nearby. He was elected to the state legislature in 1972. He also served on numerous committees including the Environment and Natural Resources Committee, and the Education and Financial Institutions and Insurance Committee. Subjects discussed: Background; result of 1973 legislation; viability of eminent domain; responsibility as a legislator to represent constituents; effect of powerline controversy on constituents; usefulness of confrontation in current situation; governor's role in issue; and the difficulty of the powerline as a political issue.
Contributing Institution:: Minnesota Historical Society
Type:: Sound Recording Nonmusical
Format:: Oral histories

12. Interview with Virgil and Jane H. Fuchs, Minnesota Powerline Oral History Project, Belgrade, Minnesota

Creator:: Fuchs, Jane H.; Fuchs, Virgil
Date Created:: 1977-12-06
Description:: Biographical Information: The Fuchs were farmers and protest leaders from Belgrade, Stearns County. Subjects discussed: How they learned about the line. Communicating with other farmers about the line. Preventing power company obtaining easements in Stearns County. Obtaining easements in Meeker County. Re-routing of line. Power Plant Siting Act-utilities being grandfathered out; choosing to come under act. Information hearings. Public hearings-corridor route; missing records; Citizen's Advisory Committee; routing of line; health hazards. Utilities projected energy needs. Working with legislators. Governor Perpich and the science court. The People's Power Project and Tesla's experiment being done on the Fuchs land. Federal lawsuit-reasons for filing; hope regarding outcome. Court injunction.
Contributing Institution:: Minnesota Historical Society
Type:: Sound Recording Nonmusical
Format:: Oral histories

13. Interview with James Gelbman, Minnesota Powerline Oral History Project, Morris, Minnesota

Creator:: Gelbman, James
Date Created:: 1977-12-08
Description:: Biographical Information: Gelbman was the Minnesota Public Interest Research Group (MPIRG) coordinator at the University of Minnesota-Morris campus. Subjects discussed: Background information on MPIRG. How MPIRG chooses issues to be involved in. When and why MPIRG became involved in powerline project controversy. Science court. Health and safety issues. Opposition groups-atmosphere at meetings; protest activities of opponents. Court proceedings. Role of law enforcement. MPIRG's position as to the cause of issue. MPIRG's other projects.
Contributing Institution:: Minnesota Historical Society
Type:: Sound Recording Nonmusical
Format:: Oral histories

14. Interview with Harold C. Hagen, Minnesota Powerline Oral History Project, Pope County, Minnesota

Creator:: Hagen, Harold Christian, U.S. Congressman
Date Created:: 1977-06-01
Description:: Biographical Information: Hagen was a farmer from Pope County and was president of Counties United for a Rural Environment (CURE). Subjects discussed: Background. How Hagen first learned about the the powerline project. Routing of line. Power Plant Siting Act-being grandfathered out; decision to come under siting law. Development of opposition groups such as CURE. Informational hearing and hearing process-purpose of; effectiveness of process; issues brought up. Environmental Quality Council-citizen's advisory committee; certificate of need. Reaction by the state and utilities to concerns expressed over powerline. Opposition to line-reasons for such a negative reaction to powerline project; issues over routing of line; why confrontations occurred. CURE-approach to issues before and after utilities came under siting act; role as head of CURE during confrontations; working with the media; working with Governor's Wendell Anderson and Rudy Perpich and the legislators; mediation sessions and request for a moratorium; relationship with Families Are Concerned Too (FACT) and the airport in Starbuck. Dealing with the courts-health and safety issues; issues of easement and liability. View of current situation. Personal effect of issue on Hagen's life. Development of energy sources in the future.
Contributing Institution:: Minnesota Historical Society
Type:: Sound Recording Nonmusical
Format:: Oral histories

15. Interview with Richard A. Hanson, Minnesota Powerline Oral History Project, Glenwood, Minnesota

Creator:: Hanson, Richard A.
Date Created:: 1979-02-13
Description:: Biographical Information: Hanson was raised on a farm and is a farmer in Pope County. He attended Alexandria Tech School and at the time of the interview was pursuing a degree at the University of Morris. In 1978, Hanson was the manager of Alice Tripp's gubernatorial campaign. Subjects discussed: Background. Learning about the powerline. Local reaction. Routing of the line. Health and safety issues. Media. Hanson's history of political involvement. DFL and powerline. Alice Tripp's campaign for governor-as campaign manager; campaign issues of powerline, abortion and taxes; candidates Bob Short and Wendell Anderson on powerline issue; sheriff's campaign; Republican candidates on the powerline issue; local politicians view of Tripps' candidacy; Rudy Perpich as a campaign issue in powerline controversy; possibility of Tripp campaigning again. Personal role in controversy. Decision to fast in protest. Concluding remarks.
Contributing Institution:: Minnesota Historical Society
Type:: Sound Recording Nonmusical
Format:: Oral histories

16. Interview with Richard A. Hanson, Minnesota Powerline Oral History Project, Glenwood, Minnesota

Creator:: Hanson, Richard A.
Date Created:: 1979-02-13
Description:: Biographical Information: Hanson was raised on a farm and is a farmer in Pope County. He attended Alexandria Tech School and at the time of the interview was pursuing a degree at the University of Morris. In 1978, Hanson was the manager of Alice Tripp's gubernatorial campaign. Subjects discussed: Background. Learning about the powerline. Local reaction. Routing of the line. Health and safety issues. Media. Hanson's history of political involvement. DFL and powerline. Alice Tripp's campaign for governor-as campaign manager; campaign issues of powerline, abortion and taxes; candidates Bob Short and Wendell Anderson on powerline issue; sheriff's campaign; Republican candidates on the powerline issue; local politicians view of Tripps' candidacy; Rudy Perpich as a campaign issue in powerline controversy; possibility of Tripp campaigning again. Personal role in controversy. Decision to fast in protest.
Contributing Institution:: Minnesota Historical Society
Type:: Sound Recording Nonmusical
Format:: Oral histories

17. Interview with Lawrence B. Hartman, Minnesota Powerline Oral History Project

Creator:: Hartman, Lawrence B.
Date Created:: 1978-02-27
Description:: Biographical Information: Hartman was a project manager for the Minnesota Environmental Quality Board. He received his undergraduate degree in History and Economics and a master's in Urban and Regional Planning. Prior to working for the Minnesota Environmental Quality Board he worked for Commonwealth Associates in Michigan. Subjects discussed: Background. Role as project manager. Process to submit an application to Minnesota Environmental Quality Board. How process worked with CPA-UPA project. Corridor selection procedure-original process; reason for new procedures; end point and entry point selection; corridor selection. Corridor evaluation committee. Purpose of information hearings. Public hearings-choosing and role of hearing examiner; set up of; structure of; writing of report; missing transcripts. Powerline route-choosing route; opposition to route; reasons for not making I-94 a route; alternative routes. Health and safety issues. Environmental Impact Statement. Future problems in siting powerlines in existing right-of-ways. Public image of agency. Reflections on the controversy and how it was handled. Science court. The construction of the project-involvement of agency; involvement of opposition. West Coast trip. Effectiveness of new siting procedures. Cost of project. How final approval of project is made. Need for line. Criticisms of how agency handled project. Impact of controversy on future powerlines.
Contributing Institution:: Minnesota Historical Society
Type:: Sound Recording Nonmusical
Format:: Oral histories

18. Interview with Wallace Hayenga, Minnesota Powerline Oral History Project, Mankato, Minnesota

Creator:: Hayenga, Wallace
Date Created:: 1978-03-14
Description:: Biographical Information: Hayenga was the staff assistant at the Blue Earth-Nicollet-Faribault Cooperative Electric Association in Mankato, Blue Earth County. Subjects discussed: His background. Background of BENCO. Structure of CPA and UPA. Mid-Continent Area Power Pool. How a project is implemented. Reasons for rate of growth for electricity. Conservation of energy. Structure of Cooperative-United line. Determining need for electricity. Concerns over opposition of line. Health and safety concerns. Siting process-routing of line; public hearings. Alternative sources of power-coal; underground line. Eminent domain laws. Government regulations on utilities-impact of; reason for increased interference. Reason for controversy. Impact of controversy on future powerlines and plants. Research for different technologies. Role of electricity in Minnesota.
Contributing Institution:: Minnesota Historical Society
Type:: Sound Recording Nonmusical
Format:: Oral histories

19. Interview with Gordon and Helen B. Hedner, Minnesota Powerline Oral History Project, Farwell, Minnesota

Creator:: Hedner, Gordon; Hedner, Helen B.
Date Created:: 1977-04-05
Description:: Biographical Information: The Hedners were farmers from Pope County and were members of Families Are Concerned Too. Subjects discussed: How the Hedners first learned about the powerline. Routing of line-priority of DNR lands; I-94 route; how route impacts farmers. Role of Minnesota Environmental Quality Council. Health and safety concerns. Easement payments. Public hearings. Farmer's liability for poles. Issue over need for electricity. Alternative sources of power. Efforts made to stop the utilities. Reaction of county officials to the farmers opposition to the line. Families Are Concerned Too. Stopping the line. Future of opposition. Canadian pipeline.
Contributing Institution:: Minnesota Historical Society
Type:: Sound Recording Nonmusical
Format:: Oral histories

20. Interview with Dr. Merle N. Hirsch Ph.D., Minnesota Powerline Oral History Project, Morris, Minnesota

Creator:: Hirsch, Merle N. Phd
Date Created:: 1979-02-20
Description:: Biographical Information: Hirsch was a professor of Physics and chairman of the Science and Mathematics Divisions, University of Minnesota at Morris. Subjects discussed: How he became involved in the powerline controversy. Hearing process-involvement with; effectiveness of. Environmental impact of line and Corona discharge. Commonwealth Associates report. Monitoring ozone levels produced by line. The effect of electric fields on plants and animals. West Coast trip. Science court. The possibility of an underground powerline. Need for line. Usefulness of research on powerline, especially for scientific community. Impact of controversy on farming community.
Contributing Institution:: Minnesota Historical Society
Type:: Sound Recording Nonmusical
Format:: Oral histories

21. Interview with Donald G. Jacobson, Minnesota Powerline Oral History Project, Elk River, Minnesota

Creator:: Jacobson, Donald G.
Date Created:: 1978-08-24
Description:: Biographical Information: Jacobson was the public relations manager for United Power Association. Subjects discussed: First involvement with powerline project. Role as public relations manager when Jacobson first joined UPA. Public hearing proceedings-the first signs of opposition; outcome of the meetings. Opposition to line-landowner's vs. non-landowners; impact of movement on the building of current and future powerlines; impact of vandalism. UPA-reaction to opposition; West Coast trip; attitude towards the need for public relations; current public relations strategy and effectiveness. The powerline project-determining future electricity needs; planning project; procedural problems involved because of Power Plant Siting Act; informing landowners; obtaining easements; routing line; tower placement. Relationship between UPA and CPA in use of public relations. Media coverage of the controversy. Mankato line. Reasons for rates increasing-energy crisis; farmers using electrical equipment. Role of legislators. Governor Anderson. Governor Perpich-mediation sessions; science court; law enforcement. Legal aspects of controversy-court injunction, moratorium; three judge panel; Supreme Court hearings; lawsuits. Meeting with organizations. Impact of controversy on job and personal life. How the project would be done differently if they were to do it again.
Contributing Institution:: Minnesota Historical Society
Type:: Sound Recording Nonmusical
Format:: Oral histories

22. Interview with Scott and Lorraine Jenks, Minnesota Powerline Oral History Project, Pope County, Minnesota

Creator:: Jenks, Lorraine; Jenks, Scott
Date Created:: 1977-04-20
Description:: Biographical Information: The Jenks were farmers in Pope County and were members of Families Are Concerned Too (FACT). Subjects discussed: Farming background. First learning about the powerline. Routing of line-original route; Environmental Impact Statement. Tower placement. Issue of powerline as a possible health hazard-electric charge; ozone level. Amount of land condemned for route. Surveying of own land and dealing with surveyors. Joining anti-powerline organizations-Save Our Countryside; Counties United for a Rural Environment; Families Are Concerned Too. Impact on lives with involvement in powerline controversy. Increase in cost of electricity. Impact of injunction. Role of the governor and state government. Problem of agricultural land not being a priority.
Contributing Institution:: Minnesota Historical Society
Type:: Sound Recording Nonmusical
Format:: Oral histories

23. Interview with Paul Jost, Minnesota Powerline Oral History Project, Morris, Minnesota

Creator:: Jost, Paul
Date Created:: 1979-02-14
Description:: Biographical Information: Jost was a farmer near Morris in Stevens County. He was vice-president, board of directors of Cooperative Power Association and a member, board of directors of Agralite Cooperative. Subjects discussed: Background. History of Cooperative Power Association. Planning of the project and different power source options considered. Anticipating opposition to the line. Role of local cooperatives and informing people of route. Power Plant Siting Act. What people were reacting to concerning the line. Role as board of director and dealing with members of Agralite. Health and safety concerns. Cost effectiveness of one plant as opposed to a decentralized system. Public hearings. Science court. How utilities dealt with confrontations. Determining the need for a line. Utilities and research of energy source options. Impact of controversy on other powerline projects. How Jost became a director. Role as a CPA representative. Membership involvement in cooperatives. Positive benefits of controversy on cooperatives. Impact of involvement with cooperatives on life.
Contributing Institution:: Minnesota Historical Society
Type:: Sound Recording Nonmusical
Format:: Oral histories

24. Interview with Carolyn Koudela, Minnesota Powerline Oral History Project, Alexandria, Minnesota

Creator:: Koudela, Carolyn
Date Created:: 1979-02-21
Description:: Biographical Information: Koudela was a farmer from Alexandria, Douglas County. She was president of Save Our Countryside. Subjects discussed: Initial involvement with powerline controversy. Background in community involvement. Learning about the powerline. Save Our Countryside-history of; how it differs from other organizations; finding resources for information on line; communicating with cooperatives and CPA-UPA; membership; role as president. Counties United for a Rural Environment. Working with the media. General Assembly to Stop the Powerline-reason for; structure; organizing. Role of Governor Perpich. Impact of legal system on movement. Status of the line and opposition. General Accounting Office investigation. Impressions of working with state government. Tripp campaign. Women as visible spokespersons in controversy.
Contributing Institution:: Minnesota Historical Society
Type:: Sound Recording Nonmusical
Format:: Oral histories

25. Interview with Ted V. Lennick, Minnesota Powerline Oral History Project, Minneapolis, Minnesota

Creator:: Lennick, T.V.
Date Created:: 1978-09-12
Description:: Biographical Information: Lennick was born and raised in Minot, North Dakota. After graduating from high school, he worked for a utility company in the area and then joined the Army where he was a first lieutenant in the artillery. He attended Grand Forks University of North Dakota after returning from the army and received a degree in electical engineering in 1957. He worked for several utilities before joining CPA as an engineer. At the time of the interview he was general manager of CPA. Subjects discussed: Background. CPA-structure; source of power; Coal Creek Project; power useage. The powerline project-the plant; cost; AC vs. DC line; informing public; West Coast trip. Line-safety; alternatives to overhead line. Power Plant Siting Act. Public hearings. Corridor and line routing-eliminating corridor process; exemption of wildlife lands; routing along highway 94; obtaining easements; tower placement. Use of eminent domain-whole farm option; determining value of land and payment. Opposition to the line-reaction to; working with the groups; concerns of opposition; dealing with; vandalism. Status of transmission line and plant. Roles of Governor's Anderson and Perpich. Mediation sessions. Science court. Operation costs and rate increases. Future for utilities-lifeline rates; government involvement; sources of power and research for alternatives; changes in planning future plants and powerlines. Role of the media in portraying the controversy. Impact of controversy on job. Line to Mankato. How project might have been done differently.
Contributing Institution:: Minnesota Historical Society
Type:: Sound Recording Nonmusical
Format:: Oral histories

26. Interview with Philip O. Martin, Minnesota Powerline Oral History Project, Elk River, Minnesota

Creator:: Martin, Philip O.
Date Created:: 1978-07-27
Description:: Biographical Information: Martin was born and raised on a farm in North Dakota. He served in the Air Force for four years and then attended the University of North Dakota where he received a degree in business administration with a major in accounting. In 1960, he was hired by Rural Cooperative Power Association (later to become United Power Association) as an administrative assistant. He became general manager of UPA in 1972. Subjects discussed: Background. UPA-structure; board of directors; how electricity is generated; Coal Creek Station; powerlines; types of customers and useage. Factors in building line-economics; type of transmission lines; need for energy source. How Mid-Continent Area Power Pool provides energy resources. Possibility of alternative projects. Planning for future needs and alternative energy sources. UPA and promoting use of electrical energy at the generation-transmission level. Public opinion regarding an energy crisis. Regulation of cooperatives in the future. 1973 Power Plant Siting Act-choosing to come under law; routing line and corridor selection; hearing process. Obtaining easements. Powerline controversy-initial realization of problem; why opposition developed; role of outside organizations; health and safety; entry point; eminent domain; dealing with problem; involvement of Governor's Anderson and Perpich; corridor vs. routing process; mediation sessions; science court; confrontations between protestors and surveyors/construction workers; role of media; personal impact; long term implications on cooperatives; current situation; state troopers; and costs due to vandalism.
Contributing Institution:: Minnesota Historical Society
Type:: Sound Recording Nonmusical
Format:: Oral histories

27. Interview with John Millhone, Minnesota Powerline Oral History Project

Creator:: Millhone, John
Date Created:: 1978-04-10
Description:: Biographical Information: Millhone received his degree in journalism from the University of Missouri in 1950. He was the director of the Iowa Energy Policy Council. In 1975, he was appointed director of the Minnesota Energy Agency. Millhone was also a member of Minnesota Environmental Quality Board. Subjects discussed: Background. Role as director of the Minnesota Energy Agency. First involvement with transmission line. Alternatives to line. Pulbic hearings. Agency's cross-examination of position put forward by utilities. Projection of furture elctricity needs. Court cases. Health and safety factors. Energy Agency and developing alternative energy sources. National energy plan. Minnesota's energy needs. Impact of opposition to 400+ line on other needs; personal impact. Elected vs. appointed officials in being responsive to the public. Reasons for controversy. Role of Governor Perpich. Role of the media.
Contributing Institution:: Minnesota Historical Society
Type:: Sound Recording Nonmusical
Format:: Oral histories

28. Interview with C. David Nelson, Minnesota Powerline Oral History Project, Glenwood, Minnesota

Creator:: Nelson, C. David
Date Created:: 1977-04-22
Description:: Biographical Information: Nelson had been a resident of Glenwood, Minnesota since 1964. He became Pope County attorney in 1966. Subjects discussed: How he became involved in powerline issue. Role in hearings. Sheriff Emmons and enforcement of court order. Calling the national guard. Reasons for confrontations between farmers and utility companies. Impression of present situation. Role of governor. The media.
Contributing Institution:: Minnesota Historical Society
Type:: Sound Recording Nonmusical
Format:: Oral histories

29. Interview with James Nelson, Minnesota Powerline Oral History Project, Grant County, Minnesota

Creator:: Nelson, James
Date Created:: 1977-05-31
Description:: Biographical Information: Nelson was born and raised on a farm and at the time of the interview was a farmer in Grant County, Minnesota. After graduating from high school, he earned a undergradute degree in physics at the University of Minnesota and a master's in physics at the University of Pittsburgh. For several years he worked in Massachusetts before returning to farming. Subjects discussed: Background. Learning about the powerline project. Environmental Quality Council-Power Plant Siting Act; impact on utilities; zoning ordinances; corridor study; citizen's advisory committees; hearing process; taping of hearings and transcripts being lost; environmental impact statement; need certificate. Opposition organizations-CARE; individual groups; consolidation of lawsuits; role in organizations; mediation sessions; Governor Perpich's involvement; confrontations with surveyors. Utilities-communicating with; power of board of directors vs. general managers in making decisions; calling the National Guard. Working with legislature. Health issues-ozone levels produced; electric field; induced charge."" Personal impact of controversy. Current situation with judges and the courts. Impact on groups and people involved in controversy. Future of electricity and energy use.""
Contributing Institution:: Minnesota Historical Society
Type:: Sound Recording Nonmusical
Format:: Oral histories

30. Interview with Wayne Olhoft, Minnesota Powerline Oral History Project, Herman, Minnesota

Creator:: Olhoft, Wayne
Date Created:: 1977-12-29
Description:: Biographical Information: Olhoft was a state Senator from Herman, Minnesota. Subjects discussed: Background. The Power Plant Siting Act-reason for creating; problems with act; amendments. Environmental Quality Board-effectiveness of; role of; responsiveness to public; hearings. Effectiveness of citizen's committees. Eminent domain and land use. Energy situation and alternatives to deal with future. Legislative role in supporting energy alternatives. Effect of controversy on job as Senator. Role of Governors Anderson and Perpich.
Contributing Institution:: Minnesota Historical Society
Type:: Sound Recording Nonmusical
Format:: Oral histories

31. Interview with Donald Olson, Minnesota Powerline Oral History Project

Creator:: Olson, Donald
Date Created:: 1978-04-18
Description:: Biographical Information: Olson earned a degree from the University of Minnesota in international relations. While he was in graduate school, he became involved in the anti-war movement of the 60s. He was a potter and taught pottery in a neighborhood craft program. He was an opponent and protest organizer of the powerline.
Contributing Institution:: Minnesota Historical Society
Type:: Sound Recording Nonmusical
Format:: Oral histories

32. Interview with Deborah Pick, Minnesota Powerline Oral History Project, Lowry, Minnesota

Creator:: Pick, Deborah
Date Created:: 1979-02-13
Description:: Biographical Information: Pick was a native of Wisconsin. She moved to Minneapolis in 1975 to attend school and work. While attending school on and off, she taught in special programs for emotionally disturbed children, worked in the theater, and with the tenants union. She became involved in the powerline controversy and moved to Lowry in 1978 to work in the issue full-time. Subjects discussed: Background. Becoming involved in the controversy. Media-image produced regarding issues; newspaper vs. TV coverage; relationship of media to protesters and to utilities. Relationship of current movements to involvement in previous groups. Health and safety issues. North American Coal Co. and realtionship to UPA and CPA. Government Accounting Office investigation and possible recourse for opposition. Cooperative as representative of the people. Routing of line and siting law. Political involvement by opposition. Reactions of residents to outsiders involvement. Role in struggle. Purpose of confrontations. Science court. Legal defense record-court record; decision by jury vs. judge; grand jury investigation; supreme court decision. Security methods instigated. Darrell Mulroy and utilities. Easement compensation. Effect of line on people. Effectiveness of how opposition was organized. Future of powerline controversy. Future energy needs.
Contributing Institution:: Minnesota Historical Society
Type:: Sound Recording Nonmusical
Format:: Oral histories

33. Interview with Hervey Richardson, Minnesota Powerline Oral History Project, Morris, Minnesota

Creator:: Richardson, Hervey
Date Created:: 1977-12-07
Description:: Biographical Information: Richardson resided in Morris, Minnesota. He was a retired farmer and a member of the Agralite Cooperative board of directors. Subjects discussed: Development of telephone cooperatives. Development of Rural Electrification Administration and involvement. People's inital resistance to electricity in the l930s and '40s. History of Agralite Cooperative. Role as director of Agralite. Input of cooperative members and board of directors. Cooperative procedure to site lines. Views on powerline controversy. Issue over dissemination of information to farmers regarding powerline. Increase in number of lines vs. alternative energy sources. Health and safety issues. Concerns over early powerlines and current ones. Cost and delay concerns for cooperatives regarding energy sources. Future needs for electricity. Usefulness of protest.
Contributing Institution:: Minnesota Historical Society
Type:: Sound Recording Nonmusical
Format:: Oral histories

34. Interview with Dennis and Nina H. Rutledge, Minnesota Powerline Oral History Project, Lowry, Minnesota

Creator:: Rutledge, Dennis; Rutledge, Nina H.
Date Created:: 1977-12-06
Description:: Biographical Information: The Rutledges were farmers in Lowry, Minnesota. They were members of the opposition groups Families Are Concerned Too and Save Our Countryside. Subjects discussed: Learning about the powerline project. Becoming involved in the controversy. Involvement with Families Are Concerned Too. Issues in controversy-changes in; section lines; health concerns. Science court. Involvement of legislature-Power Plant Siting Act. Reaction of power cooperatives to opposition. Reasons for confrontations. Governor's Anderson and Perpich. Court involvement. Necessity for line. Power needs-necessity for line; alternatives. Working with the government. Role of the media. Implications of powerline issue for more lines. Living with the powerline.
Contributing Institution:: Minnesota Historical Society
Type:: Sound Recording Nonmusical
Format:: Oral histories

35. Interview with Ed Schrom, Minnesota Powerline Oral History Project, Albany Township, Minnesota

Creator:: Schrom, Ed
Date Created:: 1978-02-01
Description:: Biographical Information: Schrom was a native of Albany, Minnesota, where he lived and owned a farm at the time of the interview. In 1970 he was elected to the State Senate. He served on a number of commissions including Agriculture, Natural Resources, and Labor and Commerce. Subjects discussed: Background. Power Plant Siting Act. Why controversy arose. Eminent domain-validity of; use by utilities. Conflict of role as legislator and stance on controversy. Health hazard issues. Tower placement and section lines. Public hearings. Farm bill. Alternatives to line-coal. Future energy needs. Issue over declaring a moratorium. View of opposition-its tactics; organization of; impact on community. Role of Governor Perpich. Impact of costs of powerline and vandalism for citizens.
Contributing Institution:: Minnesota Historical Society
Type:: Sound Recording Nonmusical
Format:: Oral histories

36. Interview with Wayne Schumacher, Minnesota Powerline Oral History Project, Glenwood, Minnesota

Creator:: Schumacher, Wayne
Date Created:: 1977-05-31
Description:: Biographical Information: Schumacher was a farmer in Glenwood, Minnesota. He served as State Representative from District 15a during the 1975-1976 session and served on the Health and Welfare, Higher Education, and Transportation committees. Subjects discussed: Situation upon entering office as state representative in 1974. Handling of hearings. Need for increase in energy. Role as representative. Lack of response to concerns of farmers by utilities and the legislature. Health and safety factors. Impact of issues on area. Reasons for confrontation by opposition. Solution to the powerline issue via court decision. Possible changes in powerline future. Uniqueness of controversy.
Contributing Institution:: Minnesota Historical Society
Type:: Sound Recording Nonmusical
Format:: Oral histories

37. Interview with Robert Sheldon, Minnesota Powerline Oral History Project

Creator:: Sheldon, Robert
Date Created:: 1979-08-07
Description:: Biographical Information: Sheldon was born and raised in Minneapolis. In 1970, he graduated from the University of Minnesota with a degree in journalism. After graduating, he was the editor of two weekly newspapers and was with Associated Press before becoming state editor of the Sioux Falls Argus Leader in 1971. He went on to be associate editor of the Minnesota Motorist Magazine and became AAA's public relations manager. He was hired as Cooperative Power Association's public relations manager in 1977. Subjects discussed: Background. Status of project upon being hired as public relations manager of CPA. Dealing with Le Seur County suit and southern line. Routing and siting powerline-impact and usefulness of state laws; AC vs. DC line; towers; expense and cost to consumer. Development of project-Fallkirk Mining Company; Minnesota vs. North Dakota as plant site. Management study of CPA. Vandalism. Health issues. Bureau of Criminal Apprehension. As public relations manager-initial reaction to situation; steps taken to deal with situation; relationship to management; working with opposition. Science court. Possibility of merging CPA and UPA. CPA's image. Media's handling of events. How problems could have been avoided. Long-term impact on cooperative structure. Personal impact.
Contributing Institution:: Minnesota Historical Society
Type:: Sound Recording Nonmusical
Format:: Oral histories

38. Interview with Louis Sieling, Minnesota Powerline Oral History Project, Perham, Minnesota

Creator:: Sieling, Louis
Date Created:: 1977-05-18
Description:: Biographical Information: Sieling was a farmer from Perham, Minnesota and was director of the Lake Region Cooperative Electrical Association.Subjects discussed: Background. Background of Lake Region Co-op. How co-op expanded service. Assessing needs of region. Powerline proposal-general background; AC vs. DC line; routing of line; height of line. Communication vehicle for farmers over line. Energy needs. Infeasibility of underground line. Section lines. Farmer's complaint over lack of input on positioning of line. Routing of line; support rally. what the result of clearing up communication problem might be. Microwave towers. Meeting deadline to get line built. Alternative sources of power. View of current situation.
Contributing Institution:: Minnesota Historical Society
Type:: Sound Recording Nonmusical
Format:: Oral histories

39. Interview with John R. Stone, Minnesota Powerline Oral History Project, Pope County, Minnesota

Creator:: Stone, John R.
Date Created:: 1979-02-21
Description:: Biographical Information: Stone was the editor of the Pope County Tribune. Subjects discussed: Background. Pope County Tribune. Coverage of the powerline controversy. Getting information on issues from the cooperatives and the utilities. Effect of reporting on opposition effort. Quality of overall reporting on issue. Determining newsworthy events. Covering confrontations. Sheriff's responsibility in confrontations. Relationship of lawsuit and protesting. Public relations. County attorney's resignation. Tripp campaign. Reporting of damage by cooperatives and cost discrepancies. Difficulty of job as editor in reporting controversy. Impact on people in area. Reasons for controversy. Opposition groups.
Contributing Institution:: Minnesota Historical Society
Type:: Sound Recording Nonmusical
Format:: Oral histories

40. Interview with Roger Strand, Minnesota Powerline Oral History Project, Cyrus, Minnesota

Creator:: Strand, Roy E.
Date Created:: 1978-02-02
Description:: Biographical Information: Strand was raised in Cyrus, Minnesota. He was a farmer in Cyrus and was elected to the state Senate in 1976. Subjects discussed: Background. Initial involvement with powerline project. Pope County's involvement. Corridor selection committee-placing of corridor; placing of line within the corridor. Legislature dealing with public input process-lack of substantive changes; public attitudes toward. Running for office. Moratorium. Health and safety issues. DC vs. AC line. State control over line after it is built. Need for line. Impact on future powerlines. Laws of eminent domain. Personal impact of controversy. Effect on people within Strand's district. Disagreement within the community. State troopers. Resignation of Pope County attorney. Predictions on outcome. Role of Governor's Anderson and Perpich. Responsibility to constituents. Legislation and alternative energy sources.
Contributing Institution:: Minnesota Historical Society
Type:: Sound Recording Nonmusical
Format:: Oral histories

41. Interview with Roger Strand, Minnesota Powerline Oral History Project, Cyrus, Minnesota

Creator:: Strand, Roy E.
Date Created:: 1978-02-02
Description:: Biographical Information: Strand was raised in Cyrus, Minnesota. He was a farmer in Cyrus and was elected to the state Senate in 1976. Subjects discussed: Background. Initial involvement with powerline project. Pope County's involvement. Corridor selection committee-placing of corridor; placing of line within the corridor. Legislature dealing with public input process-lack of substantive changes; public attitudes toward. Running for office. Moratorium. Health and safety issues. DC vs. AC line. State control over line after it is built. Need for line. Impact on future powerlines. Laws of eminent domain. Personal impact of controversy. Effect on people within Strand's district. Disagreement within the community. State troopers. Resignation of Pope County attorney. Predictions on outcome. Role of Governor's Anderson and Perpich. Responsibility to constituents. Legislation and alternative energy sources.
Contributing Institution:: Minnesota Historical Society
Type:: Sound Recording Nonmusical
Format:: Oral histories

42. Interview with Paul Tollefson, Minnesota Powerline Oral History Project, Northfield, Minnesota

Creator:: Tollefson, Paul
Date Created:: 1978-03-20
Description:: Biographical Information: Tollefson was a a farmer in Northfield, Minnesota. Subjects discussed: First knowledge of powerline; petition for powerline. Health and safety. As member of the Citizen's Advisory Committee. Problems with 1973 siting laws. Purpose of Citizen's Advisory Committee. Role of Governor Perpich. View of confrontations by opposition. Science court. Impact of controversy on people involved. Future of electricity as energy source. Alternative energy sources. What the result of the powerline controversy will be.
Contributing Institution:: Minnesota Historical Society
Type:: Sound Recording Nonmusical
Format:: Oral histories

43. Interview with The Rev. Elmer Torborg, Minnesota Powerline Oral History Project, Sauk Centre Township, Minnesota

Creator:: Torborg, The Reverend Elmer
Date Created:: 1978-01-04
Description:: Biographical Information: Torborg was a Catholic priest and the director of the Office of Rural Life in Sauk Centre, Minnesota. Subjects discussed: Office of Rural Life. Getting involved in powerline issue. Science court. Role in parish. Tesla-work of; relationship of powerline and Tesla's ideas. Alfred M. Hubbard and his work. Aalternative energy sources. Lack of government involvement in alternative energy sources. Working with state officials. Rural America meeting in D.C. Effects of controversy on people in the Sauk Centre area. Attitudes toward government. How controversy could have been avoided. Attitudes after the line is built. Day of prayer on capitol steps. Health and safety issues. Future energy needs and resources.
Contributing Institution:: Minnesota Historical Society
Type:: Sound Recording Nonmusical
Format:: Oral histories

44. Interview with Alice Tripp, Minnesota Powerline Oral History Project, Belgrade, Minnesota

Creator:: Tripp, Alice
Date Created:: 1977-12-06
Description:: Biographical Information: Tripp was a farmer from Belgrade in Stearns County. She was a protest leader and a candidate for Governor in 1978. Subjects discussed: Learning about the powerline project. Involvement in Keep Towers Out, Counties United for a Rural Environment, States United for a Rural Environment, and Coalition of Rural Environmental Groups. Reasons for the opposition-routing of line; health and safety concerns. Working with state government-personnel; Governor Perpich; legislators. Hearing process. Citizen's advisory committee. Underground wiring as alternative. Lawsuits. Mediation sessions. Confrontations. Energy needs for the future.
Contributing Institution:: Minnesota Historical Society
Type:: Sound Recording Nonmusical
Format:: Oral histories

45. Interview with Peter Vanderpoel, Minnesota Powerline Oral History Project

Creator:: Vanderpoel, Peter
Date Created:: 1978-03-17
Description:: Biographical Information: Vanderpoel was an editorial writer and reporter for the Minneapolis Tribune and the St. Paul papers before becoming the director for the State Planning and Agency and Minnesota Environmental Quality Board. Subjects discussed: Role as State Planning Agency director and Environmental Quality Board director. Process for siting a line. Initial involvement with the Cooperative-United project. Cooperative-United project and Certificate of Need. Public hearings. Citizen's Committee. Routing of line-decision making process in determining route; issue over lack of priority in routing on prime agricultural land; alternative routes. Consideration of alternative energy sources-coal; underground lines. Health and safety. Science court. Environmental Quality Board-effectiveness; public image; lawsuits. Role of media. Powerline controversy-reasons for occurring; outcome; impact on future line sitings.
Contributing Institution:: Minnesota Historical Society
Type:: Sound Recording Nonmusical
Format:: Oral histories

46. Interview with Kenneth Wald, Minnesota Powerline Oral History Project

Creator:: Wald, Kenneth
Date Created:: 1978-03-24
Description:: Biographical Information: Wald received his master's degree in forestry. Immediately upon obtaining his degree, he began working as a environmental use planner for the State Department of Natural Resources. Subjects discussed: Background. Environmental Impact Statement-400+ line; how it was prepared. Controversy over charge of farmland as lesser priority than wildlife lands in routing of line. Route recommendation. Public hearings. Reasons for controversy occurring.
Contributing Institution:: Minnesota Historical Society
Type:: Sound Recording Nonmusical
Format:: Oral histories

47. Interview with Matthew and Gloria Woida, Minnesota Powerline Oral History Project, Sauk Centre Township, Minnesota

Creator:: Woida, Gloria; Woida, Matthew
Date Created:: 1979-02-13
Description:: Biographical Information: The Woidas were farmers and powerline opponents from Sauk Centre in Stearns County. Subjects discussed: Learning about the powerline project. Effect of the line on farm-placement of tower and position of line; spraying; irrigation; safety. The opposition-concerns of; involvement in; role of outside protesters in; effectiveness of. Working within the cooperative structure. Electricity-conservation; increased need; alternative methods for farmers; underground wiring; future problems with resources. Routing of line-alternative routes; wildlife land given priority. The role of and working with the media. Confrontations-with surveyors; arrests; lawsuits. Compensation by the utilities-easement; annual payment. Involvement of Governor Perpich. Mediation sessions. Costs resulting from the project-vandalism; hiring security quards; to citizens. Clean-up after the line. State government-relationship with utilities; legislators; views of working within the system. Coal mining. How controversy could have been avoided. Leadership role. Impact of lawsuits on opposition. Relationship of Indian movement and the powerline controversy. Iowa Coal scam. Public awareness of controversy.
Contributing Institution:: Minnesota Historical Society
Type:: Sound Recording Nonmusical
Format:: Oral histories

48. Interview with Matthew and Gloria Woida, Minnesota Powerline Oral History Project, Sauk Centre Township, Minnesota

Creator:: Woida, Gloria; Woida, Matthew
Date Created:: 1979-02-13
Description:: Biographical Information: The Woidas were farmers and powerline opponents from Sauk Centre in Stearns County. Subjects discussed: Learning about the powerline project. Effect of the line on farm-placement of tower and position of line; spraying; irrigation; safety. The opposition-concerns of; involvement in; role of outside protesters in; effectiveness of. Working within the cooperative structure. Electricity-conservation; increased need; alternative methods for farmers; underground wiring; future problems with resources. Routing of line-alternative routes; wildlife land given priority. The role of and working with the media. Confrontations-with surveyors; arrests; lawsuits. Compensation by the utilities-easement; annual payment. Involvement of Governor Perpich. Mediation sessions. Costs resulting from the project-vandalism; hiring security quards; to citizens. Clean-up after the line. State government-relationship with utilities; legislators; views of working within the system. Coal mining. How controversy could have been avoided. Leadership role. Impact of lawsuits on opposition. Relationship of Indian movement and the powerline controversy. Iowa Coal scam. Public awareness of controversy.
Contributing Institution:: Minnesota Historical Society
Type:: Sound Recording Nonmusical
Format:: Oral histories

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