DNR faces criticism for proposed solar development of 400 acres of forest land but their reach knows no limits, including 25,000 acres of Lenawee County Farmland
CONTACT: Kevon Martis 517.403.2428 ourhomeourvoiceinc@gmail.com
DEERFIELD, Mich. – Our Home Our Voice, Inc., a grassroots coalition advocating for local control of land use continues to raise concerns about government overreach that is impacting Michigan’s natural resources, including 25,000 acres of farmland in Lenawee County.
The Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) faces widespread criticism for its proposal to clear over 400 acres of state forest near Gaylord for industrial solar. This proposal is part of the recent surge in large-scale solar developments across Michigan including 25,000 acres of farmland in Lenawee County being converted for similar solar energy projects.
“The 400 acres of forest that Michiganders are losing in Gaylord to solar development is relatively small when it comes to the amount of farmland we are looking at losing statewide to these projects,” shared Kevon Martis of Our Home, Our Voice Inc. “In Lenawee County alone, the loss of farmland to solar development is 6,150% larger than the loss of forest land in Gaylord. In addition to the Gaylord forest proposal, it cannot be stressed enough that farmland is an irreplaceable resource, essential for food production and community sustainability. We encourage folks to get involved and fight for our farmland just as hard as they fight for our forests.”
Our Home Our Voice, Inc. advocates for the protection of Michigan’s natural and agricultural resources through local land use regulations. The coalition, active in 45 counties, believes local communities must retain their ability to implement and maintain land use regulations tailored to their diverse needs.
"Decisions about land use should be made by those who live in and understand the unique needs of their communities—not by outside interests pushing sweeping, one-size-fits-all projects," Martis added.
The organization is calling on state officials and stakeholders to ensure that renewable energy developments prioritize the needs of the local residents while respecting Michigan's diverse landscapes.
Visit: https://www.facebook.com/OurHomeOurVoice to get involved.
