The Rock County Board of Supervisors met on Thursday, October 23, and approved resolution R‑2026‑139, which formally opposes the routing and construction of the proposed BECI 765‑kilovolt high‑voltage transmission line through the county. The line, spanning roughly 190 miles, would stretch from Crawford County in the west to Walworth County in the south, cutting across Rock County’s agricultural heartland.
Local officials voice specific concerns
Board members highlighted the proposed “Guyed‑Y” tower design as a primary issue. This design relies on tensioned cables anchored to the ground, creating structures that could become obstacles in open fields. Supervisors warned that such obstacles would force farmers to navigate around them, increasing the risk of equipment collisions that could lead to serious injury or death.
“Our farms are the backbone of Rock County’s economy and way of life,” said Supervisor Ron Woodman, the sponsor of the resolution. “We cannot allow a transmission project that endangers our farmers or disrupts productive farmland without thorough review and meaningful alternatives.”
Resolution details and next steps
The resolution does not call for a complete ban on the line but urges the state’s Department of Natural Resources and the utility company to reconsider the routing and tower design. It requests a detailed impact study that addresses agricultural safety, property rights, and the preservation of open land.
Board members also asked the utility to explore alternative designs that would minimize ground‑level infrastructure, such as underground cabling where feasible, or tower configurations that reduce the need for ground‑anchored cables.
Broader context
The BECI transmission line is part of a statewide effort to modernize the electric grid and improve reliability across Wisconsin. While the project promises increased capacity for renewable energy integration, local leaders across the state have raised similar concerns about land use, visual impact, and safety.
Rock County’s opposition joins a growing list of municipalities that are seeking greater input on large‑scale infrastructure projects that affect rural communities. The board’s action reflects a commitment to protecting the interests of local families and preserving the agricultural heritage that defines the region.
Public response
Several community members attended the meeting and expressed support for the resolution, emphasizing the importance of keeping farmland safe and productive. Others voiced curiosity about how the line might affect future development and property values.
The board will continue to monitor the situation and plans to hold a follow‑up hearing later this year to review any revised proposals from the utility company.
Original reporting: NBC15 WMTV (Gray) – local — read the source article.
