Block Valley Link North 765kV Transmission Towers @ Purcell Knob
The Issue
We have lived in this very special forest reserve on Purcell Knob, Hillsboro, VA, since 1991. It is a place of tranquility and natural beauty, marked by the lush, environmentally sensitive mountainside hardwood forest that residents, wildlife, and nature enthusiasts cherish. The rich and significant history of the Appalachian Trail and of Harper’s Ferry & Vestal’s Gap, all walking distance, cannot be understated. Until now We’ve enjoyed a rare, unspoiled view of confluence of the Shenandoah and Potomac Rivers at Harper’s Ferry on towards Brunswick MD. Quite regrettably, the recently proposed Valley Link Transmission Line poses a serious threat to this sanctuary and to our property, along with the properties of my neighbors, which are part of the Mountainside Preservation Overlay District.
The planned route for these high-voltage power lines is set to cut through these protected lands, disregarding the ecological and aesthetic values that define our community. This action would not only mar the scenic vistas but also disrupt wildlife habitats, cause deforestation, and potentially diminish property values in the area. According to recent assessments, species such as the Virginia white-tailed deer, red fox, and several avian species rely on this forest for survival.
Furthermore, the construction and maintenance of these transmission lines could lead to soil erosion, landslide and water quality degradation in a region that already struggles with environmental vulnerabilities. This project threatens to undermine years of conservation efforts that aimed to protect our land from such industrial encroachments.
In 2009 the engineering firm Black & Veatch did a study for underground HVDC for the PATH 765kV transmission line along the same right-of way as Gore-Doubs-Goose Creek and Valley Link are proposed to be located (along the Mt. Storm-Doubs lines). That study proved an underground HVDC solution was feasible for this area.
Taking these lines underground would make much smarter long term use of existing right of ways.
We call on the local government, Virginia State officials, and the power company to halt the current plans for the Valley Link Transmission Line through Purcell’s Knob and the surrounding areas. Please consider the ecological and social implications, and work toward sustainable solutions that align with our preservation efforts.
Your voice is crucial in this matter. Sign this petition to help protect the pristine wilderness of Purcell’s Knob and ensure a sustainable and harmonious coexistence with nature. Together, we can make a difference.
For the most up to date information and related links, please check here.
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The Issue
We have lived in this very special forest reserve on Purcell Knob, Hillsboro, VA, since 1991. It is a place of tranquility and natural beauty, marked by the lush, environmentally sensitive mountainside hardwood forest that residents, wildlife, and nature enthusiasts cherish. The rich and significant history of the Appalachian Trail and of Harper’s Ferry & Vestal’s Gap, all walking distance, cannot be understated. Until now We’ve enjoyed a rare, unspoiled view of confluence of the Shenandoah and Potomac Rivers at Harper’s Ferry on towards Brunswick MD. Quite regrettably, the recently proposed Valley Link Transmission Line poses a serious threat to this sanctuary and to our property, along with the properties of my neighbors, which are part of the Mountainside Preservation Overlay District.
The planned route for these high-voltage power lines is set to cut through these protected lands, disregarding the ecological and aesthetic values that define our community. This action would not only mar the scenic vistas but also disrupt wildlife habitats, cause deforestation, and potentially diminish property values in the area. According to recent assessments, species such as the Virginia white-tailed deer, red fox, and several avian species rely on this forest for survival.
Furthermore, the construction and maintenance of these transmission lines could lead to soil erosion, landslide and water quality degradation in a region that already struggles with environmental vulnerabilities. This project threatens to undermine years of conservation efforts that aimed to protect our land from such industrial encroachments.
In 2009 the engineering firm Black & Veatch did a study for underground HVDC for the PATH 765kV transmission line along the same right-of way as Gore-Doubs-Goose Creek and Valley Link are proposed to be located (along the Mt. Storm-Doubs lines). That study proved an underground HVDC solution was feasible for this area.
Taking these lines underground would make much smarter long term use of existing right of ways.
We call on the local government, Virginia State officials, and the power company to halt the current plans for the Valley Link Transmission Line through Purcell’s Knob and the surrounding areas. Please consider the ecological and social implications, and work toward sustainable solutions that align with our preservation efforts.
Your voice is crucial in this matter. Sign this petition to help protect the pristine wilderness of Purcell’s Knob and ensure a sustainable and harmonious coexistence with nature. Together, we can make a difference.
For the most up to date information and related links, please check here.
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Petition created on July 1, 2026