Residents rally to protect Cheney Reservoir from solar projects

During a recent government meeting, community members voiced strong concerns regarding the potential impact of utility-scale solar projects on the Cheney Reservoir and its surrounding watershed. Residents emphasized the importance of protecting this vital water source, which serves both Reno and Sedgwick counties.

One speaker, who lives within the Cheney water quality area, highlighted personal experiences with severe weather, questioning the durability of solar panels compared to traditional structures like roofs and vehicle windshields. This concern was echoed by others who argued that leasing land for solar installations is fundamentally different from agricultural uses such as cattle grazing or soybean farming.

The discussion also touched on historical events, with one resident recalling a 2010 incident when the reservoir nearly dried up, raising alarms about water availability for Wichita. This memory underscored the urgency of safeguarding the watershed, as the speaker urged officials to avoid actions that could harm the reservoir.

Another participant, Jane Conklingen, reiterated the sentiments of previous speakers, advocating for regulations that would prohibit commercial solar facilities in the watershed area. She called for protective measures similar to those established for wind energy projects, emphasizing the need for careful consideration of solar regulations to ensure the preservation of the Cheney watershed.

The meeting highlighted a growing community consensus against large-scale solar developments in sensitive environmental areas, reflecting a commitment to maintaining the integrity of local water resources.