KSJD Local Newscast - August 16, 2024

A proposal for a thousand-acre solar farm in the Lewis-Arriola area of Montezuma County drew about two dozen concerned residents to an open house Thursday. Two representatives for JUWI, the Germany-headquartered company proposing the solar farm, answered questions. The Canyonland Solar project would involve putting up hundreds of thousands of panels on private lands around roads S, 17 and 18. It would provide energy to Tri-State, a cooperative that supplies power to local electricity provider Empire Electric. A sub-station is located nearby. But people at the open house voiced concerns about many issues, including weeds and rainwater runoff, which they said is a problem in the area. Engineer Nick Miller said the developers will do as little grading of land as possible and will plant grass seed between panel rows to discourage weeds. He said the area will be fenced to help keep wildlife out and that the company is working with Colorado Parks and Wildlife to mitigate impacts to migratory birds and sage-grouse lek sites. Neighbors also voiced major concerns about the project’s impacts to property values and the area’s rural character. Miller said studies have found mixed results about the effects of solar farms on nearby property values. He said the property will not change hands and landowners will be compensated for any crops taken out of production. The developers still have to obtain permits from the county. Miller said construction could begin at the end of 2025 if the farm moves forward.