Garfield County wind farm work under way

Puget Sound Energy has started construction on a 343-megawatt wind farm in Garfield County that will provide power for more than 100,000 homes.

The Lower Snake River Wind Project will be built on nearly 40,000 acres of leased farmland. Ninety-eight percent of the land will remain available for crops after the 149 turbines are installed. The farmers will receive lease and royalty payments, utility officials said.

“Wind power and wheat farming are great partners, and we look forward to this new opportunity for families in our area,” said Alesia Ruchert, managing director for Garfield County for the Southeast Washington Economic Development Association.

The project will employ about 150 construction workers. About 25 workers will be needed to run the wind facility.