Idaho citizens group contests BLM wind farm proposal [Video]

PAT CALDWELLFor the Times-News

TWIN FALLS — The leader of a grass-roots citizens coalition that opposes a large wind project in southern Idaho said his group plans to file at least one lawsuit if the controversial venture secures approval from federal officials.

Chase Kelly of Jerome, a leader of Idaho For Smart Energy, said the group is waiting for the final record of decision from the Bureau of Land Management regarding the Lava Ridge Wind Project, proposed by Magic Valley Energy and LS Power, before taking legal action.

He said his group will most likely file lawsuits aimed at the BLM, Magic Valley Energy and LS Power.

The ambitious Lava Ridge Wind Project originally called for an area of ground disturbance of 9,114 acres across public lands in Lincoln, Jerome and Shoshone counties and consisted of 400 wind turbines with heights exceeding 700 feet. The project also includes the construction of new roads, powerlines, …