New Online Map Details Wind Turbines

BISMARCK, N.D. (AP) — The federal Interior Department and U.S. Geological Survey have teamed up to produce the nation's first publicly available interactive map and database of onshore wind turbines.

The map shows more than 47,000 sites. Interior Secretary Sally Jewell says the information should aid land managers and improve the siting of future wind farms.

Assistant Secretary for Water and Science Anne Castle says the data also will support research on wind generation efficiency.

Wind turbines are prevalent throughout the Dakotas. The American Wind Energy Association says South Dakota has 474 turbines and North Dakota 994.