(Atlantic, IA) – The Atlantic Area Chamber of Commerce Ambassadors welcomed Coyote Willow Wind, a wind energy project based in Cass and Audubon Counties, as a new Chamber member on Thursday, December 18th, 2025. The Ambassadors visited with representatives from Apex Clean Energy, the developer exploring the feasibility of the Coyote Willow Wind project, to learn more about the initiative and its potential benefits for the local community. Coyote Willow Wind is a proposed wind energy project designed to generate clean, renewable electricity while supporting economic growth in southwest Iowa. The project is designed to work alongside existing agricultural operations, allowing landowners to continue farming while receiving stable, long-term lease payments that support family farms and rural businesses.

Jared Beckstrom, Senior Development Manager with Apex Clean Energy, shared that landowner partnerships are central to the project’s success. Participating landowners are compensated for turbines as well as access roads and infrastructure, creating additional income while preserving productive farmland. The project is expected to bring local investment during construction and provide long-term jobs to support ongoing operations and maintenance. In addition to landowner benefits, Coyote Willow Wind is expected to generate increased tax revenue that can support local schools, infrastructure, and public services. The project emphasizes transparency and community engagement through open communication, informational meetings, and ongoing outreach to ensure the project reflects local values.

Ambassadors Pictured (Left to Right): Emily Kennedy, Jen McEntaffer, Melissa Ihnen, Lana Westphalen, Sue Liston, Elaine Otte, Kathie Hockenberry, Chris Park, Brittani Santee, Dolly Bergmann, Jennifer Lowers, Kelsey Beschorner, Bre Preis, Grace McAfee, Jeff Christensen, Bryan Pearson, Corey Eberling, Jared Beckstrom – photo courtesy of the Atlantic Area Chamber of Commerce.

The Ambassadors appreciated learning how renewable energy development can strengthen rural economies while respecting landowners, the environment, and community priorities. As a new Chamber member, Coyote Willow Wind looks forward to building partnerships and being an active participant in Cass County.

The Coyote Willow Wind office is located at 405 Market Street in Audubon. For more information, visit https://www.coyotewillowwind.com/