Ruining farm land and our local ecosystem, solar farms are becoming an increasing concern in West Salem. These developments are taking away precious agricultural land that has been in families for generations, land that has not only provided livelihoods but also been a cornerstone of our community's identity. Our families have farmed this land for decades, and now, we are being pushed to the sidelines for these large-scale corporate projects. Solar farms will leave farm land unusable after leases expire, decrease surrounding home and property values and farmers and their families will be out of business. Solar farms might seem like a progressive solution to energy needs, but in reality, they are disrupting local economy and ecosystems. These solar panels will be along Big Run water shed which supplies the Reynolds development and children that attend Reynolds junior senior high school. Native plant species are being destroyed to make way for solar panels, leading to a loss in biodiversity. Local wildlife, including fish, birds, insects, and mammals, are losing their habitats. According to studies, large solar farms can lead to a reduction in soil quality and increased erosion (source: National Agriculture Service 2021). Moreover, these solar projects are being constructed with little to no input from the local community. The voices of those who are directly impacted are seldom heard in the decision-making process. This lack of transparency and consideration is not acceptable. West Salem should be protecting us tax payers not working with outside companies. West Salem residents should have a say in what happens to our land and our environment.