A proposed Willamette Valley solar park is still in the mix. Neighbors want to nix it

The Muddy Creek solar project, proposed by South Korean-based Hanwha Renewables and its subsidiary Qcells, has faced fierce pushback from local residents and farmers in Linn County, Oregon since it was first pitched in 2023. The project would cover over 1,600 acres of land zoned for exclusive farm use, threatening to take prime farmland out of production. Neighbors like Nancy Schatz and Troy Jones, who live near the proposed site, are concerned about the project's impact on wetlands, riparian zones, and migratory bird habitats. The developers originally did not propose any 'agrivoltaic' dual-use for the land, though they have since suggested the possibility of sheep grazing or pollinator habitats under the solar panels. However, many locals remain skeptical that the agricultural component will be viable. The project has moved at a slow pace, with the developers requesting extensions from the state's Energy Facility Siting Council. They are now working to redesign the project to minimize impacts on wetlands, but have not yet submitted a formal application. Local opposition groups and elected officials continue to voice concerns over the project's scale and location on prime farmland.