Court moves ahead with scenic designation for butte
By Larry Meyer
Argus Observer
Friday, November 28, 2008 10:40 AM PST
VALE — In the latest local political effort to push a proposed Idaho Power 500 kilovolt transmission line away from the valley, Malheur County Commissioners Louis Wettstein and Jim Nakano last week adopted a resolution to support the scenic preservation of Malheur Butte.
One leg of Idaho Power’s preferred route for the line would take it close to the Malheur Butte on its east side, a scenario some local residents believe would mar scenic views of the landmark seen as a symbol of the county. Wettstein and Nakano, voting without Malheur County Judge Dan Joyce who was absent at the Association of Oregon Counties convention, voted to adopt the resolution at the request of a grass-roots local group that prefers Idaho Power change the proposed route of the line.
Included in the resolution is the vista/turnout situated along U.S. Highway 20-26 on Trenkel Hill because it provides a scenic view of Malheur Butte surrounded by the farmland and provides information regarding how the surrounding land, water, butte and farming activities are an integral part of the community.
Joyce said earlier he planned to bring the power line issue up with state and federal officials at the county convention.
“The Butte is valued for its aesthetic purpose because it is a natural volcano (inactive) that rises prominently within lands zoned exclusive farm use. The lands surrounding the Butte are lush, productive and open-space farmlands,” according to the resolution. “Together, the farmlands and Butte display a visually stunning display.”
