Residents oppose solar farm impact on farming with concerns over land use

Concerns over the impact of solar farms on local agriculture took center stage at the Iredell County Planning Board meeting on June 4, 2025. Residents voiced strong opposition to a proposed solar farm, highlighting potential risks to farming communities.

Teresa Kidd, a local resident, expressed her disapproval, stating, "I strongly oppose the solar farm going in." She emphasized the negative effects it could have on the surrounding agricultural landscape. Kidd then donated her speaking time to Lonnie Van Drake, who further elaborated on the issue.

Van Drake presented a clip from Michigan Representative Cam Cabot, who discussed the detrimental effects of solar arrays on farming. He noted that farmers in his district are facing challenges, particularly in potato production, due to restrictions imposed by solar installations. "They’re having to sign off on these that you can't grow potatoes on this land where solar arrays are set up anymore," he explained, citing concerns over metal and glass shards as well as heavy metal leaching.

The discussions at the meeting underscored a growing tension between renewable energy initiatives and agricultural interests in Iredell County. As the planning board considers the solar farm proposal, the voices of concerned residents highlight the need for careful evaluation of the potential impacts on local farming communities.