The Bureau of Land Management director has defended the agency’s decision to approve a 4,500-acre wind farm despite strong opposition from local residents, county governments, and the state legislature. This controversial Idaho wind project has sparked debates about the influence driving land-use policies on public lands in the West.
During a Senate committee hearing, Senator James Risch criticized the approval of the Lava Ridge wind project, highlighting the lack of local input in the decision-making process. Despite objections from seven Idaho counties, the state legislature, BLM advisory council, tribes, and community organizations, the project moved forward.
Thousands of comments opposing the project were submitted to the BLM, emphasizing the lack of support from Idahoans. Senator Risch questioned the motives behind pushing forward a project that benefits California but not local communities.
BLM Director Tracy Stone-Manning explained that local objections were considered in scaling back the project’s original proposal. The wind project, now relocated nine miles from the Minidoka site, aims to provide energy for up to 500,000 homes.
The project, spearheaded by Magic Valley Energy, a subsidiary of LS Power based in New York City, has faced backlash from Idaho residents and officials. Despite the tentative approval, concerns about public input evaluation and foreign influence have been raised by Senator John Barrasso.
The approval is expected to face legal challenges, with Jerome County already pledging to contest it in court. Ms. Stone-Manning acknowledged the resistance to change and the complexities surrounding land development decisions. Can you please provide me with an alternative version?
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