Federal complaint filed against Summer Wind Farms in Brown City

(BROWN CITY) — The U.S. Department of Agriculture has filed a formal complaint against the Summer Wind Farms Sanctuary of Brown City. The 140-acre sanctuary cares for several tigers, bears, monkeys and alpaca. The animals were once pets, mascots, or movie extras. The 24-page complaint includes nearly 90 allegations of willful violations of the Animal Welfare Act documented between November 2012 and October 2015 and filed last week. Among the allegations are reports that the facility repeatedly failed to provide animals with basic necessities such as clean water, protection from the weather, clean enclosures, adequate veterinary care, and edible food. The complaint is the first step in a disciplinary process that could result in a fine of up to $10,000 per violation or a license suspension or revocation. The USDA last took action against Summer Wind Farms in 2012, suspending the facility’s license for three months and imposing a $500 fine.