Skagit residents voice concerns over Seattles dam project proposal

The Skagit County Board of Commissioners has voiced strong opposition to Seattle’s plan to relicense its Skagit River dams, which generate 20% of Seattle City Light’s electric power. The utility aims to invest $150 million in salmon habitat restoration, but local officials fear this could lead to the seizure of farmland through eminent domain. In their letter to Mayor Bruce Harrell, they demanded guarantees that no land would be taken for these restoration efforts. Dairy farmer Jason Vander Kooy criticized the proposal as a “land grab,” warning it threatens over 1,300 acres of farmland. Seattle City Light has not publicly addressed the backlash from Skagit officials.

This conflict underscores the challenges of balancing energy needs with agricultural preservation. With the region's energy supply at stake, the outcome of this dispute could set important precedents for future projects. Local stakeholders are urging Seattle to prioritize the protection of Skagit County's agricultural land.