With the proposed Wexford solar project Shipyard Solar gaining attention in northern Michigan, I want to share Groundwork’s stance on this proposed project—and how you can get involved in the process.
First, A brief background on the project.
As you’ve probably read via Facebook or local news, this project is complex. The land in question has been actively farmed for years and is owned by the Arkansas Teacher Retirement System, a pension fund that purchased the 1,500 acres in two counties and leased it to local farmers. Recently, Ranger Power, an energy development company, approached the Arkansas-based company to lease the land for solar panels. While the Arkansas company was open to leasing the land to Ranger Power, for the project to move forward, Wexford County would need to create a zoning ordinance to permit solar farms in agricultural and forest production areas. The Wexford Joint Planning Commission has begun revising the zoning ordinance, however, there is currently no formal application for the Shipyard Solar project.
We strongly believe that a wise and effective balance of farmland and clean energy development is possible.
Since the Wexford County land remains in active farming, Groundwork is committed to ensuring farmers’ voices are heard. At Groundwork Center, we champion both the community and the farmers who sustain local food systems, and we understand the need to balance clean energy expansion and expansion of the local food economy. We strongly believe that a wise and effective balance of farmland and clean energy development is possible. There are many cases across our nation in which farmers lease land to developers to diversify income while keeping land agriculturally productive for future generations. While we recognize the need for updated zoning ordinances to include renewable energy projects, not every project should bypass community consideration.
Now is your chance to speak up!
On Monday, July 27th, at 6:30 pm, at Tabernacle Church, the Wexford Joint Planning Commission will be hosting a public meeting to discuss the zoning amendment that would make solar development possible in the county. I urge you not only to attend the meeting but also to voice your support for this zoning amendment. It’s important to remind local officials that amending the ordinance is not a green light for Ranger Power’s Shipyard Solar project, but about zoning rules for all renewable energy projects, a demonstration of the county’s openness to fostering future clean energy initiatives.
I’ve crafted talking points to make it easier for anyone preparing to share their perspective. Whether you’re a farmer, a resident, or simply someone who cares about the future of our rural areas, your input is valuable. Now is the time to ensure rural voices are represented in this critical conversation. Energy demand is rising, but so is the need for responsibly sited renewable energy that accounts for rural farmers and the character of our communities.
I hope to see you there!
Lyla Hollis, Groundwork Clean Energy Specialist
lyla.hollis@groundworkcenter.org
