Solar Farm Proposal Advances in Todd County Despite Prime Farmland Concerns
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by Debra Meyer-Myrum
A proposed Todd County solar farm continues to move through the local approval process after receiving a Todd County Board of Adjustment variance to be located on land classified as prime farmland—despite a county ordinance that generally prohibits such development.
The Eagle Bend Solar project, proposed by USS Eagle Bend Solar LLC, would be constructed on approximately 55 acres in Wykeham Township. The property, owned by Jean Greenwaldt, would be leased to US Solar and would host a 10-megawatt solar array capable of generating enough electricity to power an estimated 3,000 homes.
The proposal has drawn attention because most of the site is considered prime farmland under USDA classifications. Todd County’s zoning ordinance restricts solar farms on such land, requiring the developer to seek a variance from the Todd County Board of Adjustment (BOA).
Variance Approved by Board of Adjustment
On January 22, the BOA approved the variance in a 3–1 vote, determining that the project met criteria for practical difficulty, reasonable land use, and consistency with the county’s comprehensive plan.
Developers pointed to the site’s proximity to existing electrical infrastructure, including the Eagle Valley substation, as a key factor. Solar projects typically must be located within one to two miles of three-phase power lines, significantly limiting potential locations...
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