BLM boss promises wind project in Idaho, historic site can coexist

The Bureau of Land Management will work to ensure that the controversial Lava Ridge wind project in southern Idaho does not cause damage to nearby historic sites if approved, said Director Tracy Stone-Manning.

Stone-Manning wrote Monday in a formal response letter to the chairman of the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation that the office generally agrees with the council’s concerns about the wind project and its potential negative impact on the commemorative Minidoka National Historic Site. agreed to an internment camp in which thousands of Japanese Americans were involuntarily held during World War II.

Therefore, BLM is working with the company proposing the project, the Japanese American community, Native American tribes and others to ensure that adequate protection and mitigation measures are in place, Stone-Manning wrote to ACHP Chair Sara Bronin.

“As we move forward with the project, the BLM remains committed to its historic preservation goals and responsibilities in fulfilling our multiple-use mandate under the Federal Land Policy and Management Act and ensuring responsible renewable energy development while protecting significant cultural landscapes and historic assets.” Stone- Manning wrote.