California commission backs tribes in dispute over sacred site

Friday, April 26, 2013  

The California Native American Heritage Commission is siding with tribes in a dispute over a wind energy project.

The commission designated the location of the Ocotillo Wind Energy Facility as a sacred site. The decision won't stop the project but the Viejas Band of Kumyeyaay Indians said it sends a message to the Bureau of Land Management and developer Pattern Energy.

"While we support renewable energy, Ocotillo Wind is clearly the wrong project in the wrong location," Chairman Anthony Pico said in a press release.

The Quechan Nation is suing the BLM in hopes of blocking the project.

Get the Story:
Ocotillo Wind project area deemed sacred (The Imperial Valley Press 4/25)

Law Article: Quechan Nation loses decision against wind farm (3/20)