Even after a recent legal defeat, the Tonawanda Seneca Nation still reached a settlement to “permanently protect” more than 200-acres of land from Plug Power’s development.
Big Woods, “a pristine parcel of land” that Nation members forage traditional medicines and hunt on for centuries, has been saved from because of an agreement reached with the Genesee County Economic Development Center (GCEDC), according to a recent statement from Nation officials.
The Science & Technology Advanced Manufacturing Park, better known as STAMP, possesses 1,250-acres within the borders of the mega site. Eighty percent of lands were set aside for the construction of Plug Power’s multi-million dollar electric substation, which is supposed to become the largest in North America.
Usage of any pesticides will also be prohibited within the same plot of protected lands, which is adjacent to the Nation’s territory reservation.
Sachem Chief Kenith Jonathan of the Tonawanda Seneca Nation’s Wolf Clan said the Nation is “disappointed” that construction is still set to occur, but hopes the newly-forged agreement may serve as “the framework for a more collaborative relationship with GCEDC and Plug Power moving forward.”
Gabe covered health and indigenous affairs in the Finger Lakes between 2019 and 2022. His award winning coverage was cited by the federal government and provided residents with an invaluable service during the coronavirus pandemic.