Our community is at a critical juncture as a massive project threatens the very heart of our sensitive eco-system - TreeBeard LLC's battery storage facility construction. Our eco-system, a treasure trove of biodiversity and natural beauty, is on the brink of being permanently altered, if not destroyed. As an environmental organization in this community who deeply cherishes the pristine environment around us, we are compelled to voice our concern and urge others to take action.

This project plans to bulldoze roughly 10 acres of our precious land to make room for what they call progress—a term that, in this context, seems to equate to environmental degradation. The lush Pine grove, which acts as a crucial carbon sink, provides habitat for countless species and ensures the ecological balance, is at severe risk. Studies published by renowned environmental organizations highlight how such projects lead to the decline of native species, pollution of air and water, and put public health at risk a complete contradiction to the ethos we stand for.

Moreover, the construction activities likely to occur will disturb the Wildlife, Wetlands, Watershed, Aquifer and Floodplain causing irreversible damage to the local habitat, eco-system, and potentially potable water, leaving future generations deprived of the natural resources that we have had the privilege to inherit and enjoy.

We understand the importance of renewable energy solutions, but they should not come at the cost of our environment or the health and welfare of the community. There appears to be a need for investment in eco-friendly energy alternatives and adopting technologies that minimize environmental footprints. Let's plan smart and support projects that does not compromise our health, safety, and precious eco-system.

Join us in urging local authorities, environmental agencies, the Connecticut Siting Council, and Flatiron Energy/TreeBeard LLC to revisit this project's planning, to explore alternative sites and technology, and to ensure stringent environmental impact assessments before any groundbreaking activities commence. Encourage our state leaders to consider a statewide moratorium on lithium-ion battery facilities until better technology and safety measures can be developed. 

It's not just about a piece of land; it's about preserving the ecological sanctity and ensuring that development progresses safely and sustainably. Together, we can make a difference and protect our environment for ourselves and the generations to come.

Please sign this petition to stand against the environmental destruction and support a future where development and nature coexist harmoniously.

Very Respectfully,

New Milford Clean Water Coalition 

Project info:

Flatiron Energy/Treebeard BESS Project LLC is proposing a 140MWac/560MWh battery storage system located at #2 Timothy Lane in New Milford, CT. The facility will utilize Tesla Megapacks (2XL) consisting of 156 units with 39 inverters and 34.5KV transformers which will be housed in 20'x10' cabinets. This facility will be connected to the grid with 990' of overhead electric line and 860' of underground electric line. The West Aspetuck River (a class A watershed) runs in a North to South direction through the project site which the access road crosses the river via a bridge. The applicant plans on widening the access road to 20' and re-constructing the bridge to service the facility/operation. This project is being proposed directly over our main New Milford Aquifer, in our Aquifer Protection area. Peagler Hill and Indian Fields well fields, owned by Aquarion Water Company, supply water to roughly 12,000 New Milford customers. That system continues down RT7 and interconnects into the Brookfield system and beyond. Due to unforeseen circumstances surrounding previously discovered harmful PFAS substances and low yields in certain parts of town, the main system is being expanded to become the primary potable water source for most of New Milford. 

The project also encumbers a plethora of regulated wetlands and upland review areas. These environmentally sensitive areas act as our "water purifier" and flood protection. They serve as groundwater recharge areas for our Main Aquifer and contain important wildlife habitat. The project is located in the 100- and 500-year flood plain, potentially taking up critical storage space in flooding situations. In the event of flooding, the ecosystem, its soil, and surface water are at great risk from harmful hazardous pollution. The National Diversity Data Base lists the property as containing endangered, threatened, and special concern for species and important natural communities.