Idaho Delegation Introduces Bill to Stop Lava Ridge Wind Energy Project

Washington, D.C.--U.S. Senators Mike Crapo and Jim Risch along with U.S. Representatives Mike Simpson and Russ Fulcher (all R-Idaho) introduced the Don’t Develop Obstructive Infrastructure on our Terrain (Don’t DO IT) Act.  The Don’t DO IT Act would require the Secretary of the Interior deny any wind or solar energy project proposed on public land that is disapproved of by the State legislature.

Idaho’s State legislature unanimously passed a resolution in March 2023 expressing opposition to the Lava Ridge Wind Energy Project in Southern Idaho, a 370 turbine project spanning 146,000 acres.  Among other concerns, the proposed Lava Ridge project would visually compromise the Minidoka National Historic Site, a relocation site where more than 120,000 Japanese-Americans were incarcerated during World War Two.

“Idahoans know what is best for their land and livelihoods,” said Crapo.  “Allowing state legislatures to have oversight on new wind and solar projects on federal land means the federal government and its agencies take into consideration the will of the people closest to the project.”

“Idahoans have been loud and clear on Lava Ridge: Don’t DO IT! Yet, the Department of the Interior is still moving full speed ahead,” said Risch.  “The Don’t DO IT Act will empower Idaho and other states to prevent the federal government from implementing unwanted, obstructive, and misaligned wind and solar energy projects on public land, like Lava Ridge.”

“The Lava Ridge Wind Project has proven to be out of touch with Idahoans,” said Simpson.  “Throughout the last year, I have taken significant actions in opposing this project and advocating for Idaho’s best interests.  The Don’t DO IT Act is common-sense legislation that puts the people of Idaho first.  I will always work to protect Idahoans’ way of life, and I am proud to work with the Idaho Delegation and ensure the Magic Valley is not trampled by this proposal.”

“I appreciate working with Congressman Simpson, Senator Risch, and Senator Crapo to prevent the federal government from trying to run roughshod over the State of Idaho when it comes to energy projects that can’t make it on their own in the market.  With my colleagues, I opposed the Lava Ridge Wind Project because it undermined Idahoans’ way of life.  I stand with my colleagues and the people of Idaho in supporting the Don’t DO IT Act,” said Fulcher.