Wisconsin Group Opposes Proposed MariBell Transmission Line, Citing Environmental and Economic Concerns
A group called "No 765 Line" is actively organizing to oppose a proposed 765 kV MariBell transmission line by Dairyland Power Cooperative and GridLiance in Wisconsin's Driftless Area, specifically near Seneca. Residents and experts are highlighting concerns about severe environmental impacts on wildlife and water quality, public safety risks, and negative economic effects on local tourism. The group is preparing to present its case and expert testimony before the Public Service Commission.
Residents of Wisconsin's Driftless Area, led by the group "No 765 Line," are actively opposing the proposed 765 kV MariBell transmission line, planned by Dairyland Power Cooperative and GridLiance. An event hosted by Linda and Tim Eisele at their Gobbler Ridge Farm in rural Seneca brought together nearly 40 attendees to discuss the potential impacts and organize resistance. Speakers detailed how the massive towers and expanded easements would drastically alter the landscape, with towers reaching 150-200 feet, significantly taller than existing lines.
Environmental concerns were a central focus, with former DNR State Natural Areas program manager Mark Martin discussing threats to grassland birds and migrating waterfowl, recounting past efforts to mitigate bird collisions with power lines in Sauk County. Forest Jahnke of the Crawford Stewardship Project highlighted the severe vulnerability of the Driftless Region's unique karst geology and pristine water quality. He warned that the deep borings required for the towers' foundations could act as conduits for contamination into the deep bedrock aquifers, which are difficult to flush once compromised, and also raised concerns about public safety due to potential collapses in the fragile geological system.
Jay McCloskey, president of the newly formed non-profit No 765 Line, shared his personal experience of alleged misrepresentations by utility land agents. He outlined the group's strategies, including a public awareness campaign with yard signs and a new website (www.no765line.org), to raise funds for expert witnesses who will testify during Public Service Commission proceedings. McCloskey also emphasized other potential threats, such as human and wildlife health impacts from the corona effect and electromagnetic frequencies (EMF), and the logistical nightmare of transporting and pouring millions of pounds of concrete for tower foundations, which could further endanger water supplies.
The group also challenged the economic benefits touted by developers. McCloskey argued that the vast majority of construction costs would not benefit the local economy, as specialized crews would be needed. Instead, he projected a net negative economic impact on the region due to a significant estimated 10-20% loss in outdoor recreational tourism in Vernon and Crawford counties, which currently generates $112 million annually, thereby negating any minor local economic gains from the transmission line project.