I have a deep connection to Mount Shasta. Its beauty captivates my soul every time and I am in awe of the magnificent views that it offers. However, this exceptional experience is at a grave risk due to the privatization of a public road on the slopes of this majestic mountain for the construction of privately-owned solar farm. The Siskiyou County Supervisor Ed Valenzuela agreed to give permission to abandon the western section of the Shasta Way on the slopes of the mountain. This decision effectively privatizes a public road for the sake of the privately-owned by the Monte Shasta Mutual Water Company solar farm.

NorthEast View of Mt. Shasta from the pedestrian trail (south Monroe Rd)  March 15, 2025

 

 

 

 

 

 

How this area will look after the installation (projected image, proportions accurate)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The plans for the solar farm (more than 9600 sq. feet and about 12 ft high)  threaten both the pristine environment and my personal attachment to this place (the image below is also a projection of their plans).  And incidentally, it also will block the second emergency fire exit for our community. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The view that was...Mount Eddy

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

There are no regulations against solar farms on Mount Shasta slopes near the boundaries of the National Forest. While other counties, such as San Bernardino or Napa, limit development of solar farms in their landscapes, the Siskiyou County does not. Permission from the Board of Supervisors and personally from Ed Valenzuela creates a precedent that leads to many other solar farms on the public roads of the sunny slopes on Mount Shasta .

While we recognize the importance of clean energy, it should not be pursued at the expense of our public lands and the beauty they bestow. The solar farms project also threatens the local environment and wildlife habitat of the forests and watersheds surrounding the mountain. The privatization and subsequent commercial exploitation could devastate the beautiful landscapes and restrict the public from accessing these roads, diminishing the connection so many of us feel to this natural wonder. Furthermore, according to a report from the U.S Department of Energy, there are many of already-disturbed and developed lands that could host solar energy projects without threatening our beautiful landscapes or wildlife habitats.

Therefore, I urge you all to stand for the defense of public lands, our right to enjoy them, and the preservation of the breathtaking views of Mount Shasta. Together, we can convince policy makers to halt privatization and explore alternative sites for solar farm development where they won't intrude upon our cherished landscapes. Please, sign this petition and join me in protecting the natural beauty of Mount Shasta.

 

Disclaimer: Petition will ask you for donations, but these donations go to Change.org, not to our cause. Signing alone is enough to support the petition.