Power transmission lines: a future scenario

Environmental groups and regulatory agencies have demanded thorough investigations concerning the social and environmental impacts associated with major power generating plants and generating site-related issues, but the impact of transmission corridors has been investigated in low key. The author speculates upon the ecological and human risks that may be associated with the proliferation of ultrahigh-voltage power lines across the U.S. In this fictional review he reminds us that a proliferation of such transmission lines may be a necessary concomitant of the all-electric society envisioned by some. Although not a problem demanding immediate solution, it is felt a useful purpose will have been served if attention and thought are directed to the matter before it assumes crisis dimensions. (MCW)