The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) has raised concerns that a proposed solar project in Lodi could harm the habitat of the Northern harrier bird raptor. Consequently, NY Lodi I LLC, the New York City-based project developer, is seeking an incidental take permit from the DEC’s Region 8 office in Avon as part of the State Environmental Quality Review process.
Seneca County Industrial Development Agency (IDA), the lead agency for the project, is assessing the developer’s request for financial aid, including tax abatement and exemptions. The proposed 4.98-megawatt solar project, located at 1877 Halsey Lane, would result in the loss of 24.8 acres of Northern harrier habitat. To mitigate this, NY Lodi I LLC has proposed creating a 25.1-acre replacement habitat adjacent to the affected area under a Net Conservation Benefit Plan. The new habitat would be maintained for a 15-year permit term, with ongoing monitoring and reporting activities.
The public can inspect filed application documents and draft DEC permits, if available, during normal business hours at the DEC Region 8 office in Avon. Interested parties should contact Logan M. Stratton at 585-226-2466 or [email protected] to schedule an appointment. Written comments on the project and permit application must be submitted to Stratton by April 20.
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