Although our headline almost feels like it could come directly from The Onion (why on earth would someone propose power lines across a refuge?), sadly it is not. While not The Onion, BrightNight Energy is planning a multifaceted power line project across Onion Flats, a wetland area of the Tualatin River National Wildlife Refuge, just across from the Visitor Center. This project is being supported at the highest level, and we need the full support of the community to stand up in opposition.
The red star on this map of the Tualatin River National Wildlife Refuge represents the location of the proposed high-voltage towers and power lines.
What does this project entail? BrightNight Energy and PGE, through a proposed land swap with a neighbor, are proposing a lithium-ion battery energy storage system on the Onion Flats property, along with ten 115-130 foot tall high-voltage towers and power lines directly across the wetlands at Onion Flats. This area is particularly important to at least 85 species of resident and migratory birds that rely on the wetlands for feeding, nesting, and raising their young. These harms could be avoided, but project developers have ignored several less environmentally destructive routes in the area, including one along Highway 99 where the Oregon Department of Transportation already has a utility corridor.
Infrastructure development on a National Wildlife Refuge typically involves substantial environmental review and public engagement, but under the Trump administration destructive activities on public lands are being rushed with little concern for the effects on natural resources or local communities. So in absence of a formal engagement process, we need you to help engage quickly! We’re asking that community members immediately reach out to Governor Kotek and our federal delegation, then join us for a PGE Community Forum in Sherwood on March 18. Time is of the essence, and we urge you to act.
Wed, March 18 / 6:00–7:30 PM
Sherwood Middle School Commons
During the public comment period, share your concerns with the location of BrightNight Power’s Tualatin BESS transmission route immediately adjacent to the Refuge. Urge PGE officials to reject the proposed route and select a safer alternative to protect the habitat of half a million migratory waterfowl.
Reach out to share your opposition to this project with Governor Kotek and our federal officials.
Governor Kotek — 503-378-4582
Representative Andrea Salinas — (503) 385-0906
Senator Jeff Merkley — (202) 224-3753
Fill in required contact information --> For Topic, select “Environment”--> Enter your comment
Senator Ron Wyden — (202) 224-5244
Select “Share Your Opinion on Legislation” --> Fill in required contact information --> For Message Topic, select “Environment” --> Enter your comment
Bolded text should be personalized. Be sure to remove the highlight before you send your message!
Elected’s Name,
I am writing to strongly urge you to halt the power projects planned for the Onion Flats property within the Tualatin River National Wildlife Refuge complex...
This land is home to several types of amphibian and dozens of species of resident and migratory birds that depend on the seasonal wetlands for feeding, nesting, and raising their young. Several of these bird species are listed species or are species of concern in Oregon State Wildlife Action Plan.
The construction of transmission towers, lines, and a battery storage station will irreparably harm these species and the overall health of the wetlands in Onion Flats. Power line strikes are one of the top dangers to birds nationwide. Construction of these tower platforms and the storage station will require heavy machinery and temporary access roads, which will damage the sensitive wetland ecosystem and introduce contaminants into the water and soil.
2+ sentences on why the Refuge and its wildlife species are important or meaningful to you personally.
This land is included in the Refuge complex because it contains important wildlife habitat for the Tualatin River watershed. Federal conservation land should not be “traded” to private developers for private gain. It belongs to all of us. Please join me in demanding that the developers choose the least environmentally harmful routes and locations for this project.
Thank you,
Your Name
Photo credits: Ian Shive, Natalie Balkam (USFWS)
