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Farmers press presenters on tower footprints, spacing and compensation
Summary
Landowners asked for specifics on tower footprints, spacing and valuation; presenters said tower bases may be roughly 40×40 to 50×50 feet, spacing roughly 1,200–1,400 feet on average depending on topography, and that statutory appraisal procedures determine compensation.
Several landowners and supervisors asked practical questions about tower footprints, spacing, concrete foundations and whether farming operations can continue adjacent to towers. A presenter explained that lattice tower bases in preliminary designs have footprints such as 40 by 40 or 50 by 50 feet at the corners and that soil borings will determine foundation sizing. Typical spacing was described as roughly 1,200–1,400 feet apart depending on topography; taller towers are used to span longer distances.
On compensation, presenters described the statutorily prescribed appraisal process: utilities and landowners use larger‑parcel appraisals to determine impacts; landowners may obtain their own appraisals and the utility has to pay within a statutory window if disputes are not resolved. “What kind of studies have you had that prove that these huge towers and the weight they have and the foundations… will of course geology support that weight?” asked a resident; presenters said soil borings and foundation engineering are part of the CPCN and siting work and committed to working with farmers to minimize crop‑loss impacts and locate towers at field edges where feasible.
Why it matters: property footprint, foundation depth, and tower locations directly affect farm operations, crop yields and land values. Presenters said these details are part of the engineering and appraisal records included with the CPCN application and are subject to statutory compensation processes.
