Virginia Regulatory Town Hall
Agency
Department of Environmental Quality
 
Board
Department of Environmental Quality
 
chapter
Small Solar Renewable Energy Projects Permit Regulation [9 VAC 15 ‑ 60]
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1/23/23  10:51 am
Commenter: Mike Stewart, Endless Caverns

Disruption of the Shenandoah Valley
 

I see many obvious reasons in the comment section as to why this is not a good idea.  To add another perspective, I'd like to point out that our property overlooks the proposed site for the solar farm.  We are a tourist destination spot.  People come from all over the country to visit, explore and view the beauty of the Shenandoah Valley.  They return often and usually bring their friends and family.  They are a crucial part of our local economy.  I understand this tourist perspective is hard to quantify, however, it is part of the equation.   Many miles of the Massanutten Mountain range overlook the proposed site.  The proposed solar farm will not be tucked away in an obscure area, it is basically in view of the many hiking trails and overlooks that are synonymous with our valley... This comment is not a knock against renewable energy, but it is a knock against the location and the potential disruption of our fragile ecosystem.  More time is needed to fully understand all impacts of such a proposal and in the end to determine that the proposed location it not in the best interest of the community. 

CommentID: 207937