In a recent government meeting, discussions centered around the proposed wind turbine project and its potential impact on cultural resources, particularly concerning the Yakima Nation. Governor Jay Inslee urged the council to reconsider mitigation measures related to the siting of 17 turbines, emphasizing the need for a more tailored approach to address specific cultural impacts.

The governor highlighted the Yakima Nation's concerns regarding the Weber Canyon area, which they identified as a site of significant cultural importance. He requested that the council consider the physical and traditional cultural resources within the leased property boundary, aiming to minimize the project's impact on these resources.

The council clarified that while the 17 turbines could be relocated within the designated wind micrositing corridor, the specific areas where they are currently proposed would be excluded from future turbine placement. This means that while the total number of turbines may not decrease, their exact locations could change to comply with the new mitigation measures.

The discussions underscored the complexity of balancing renewable energy development with the preservation of cultural heritage, as stakeholders continue to navigate the implications of the project for the Yakima Nation and the surrounding environment. The council's ongoing evaluation of the turbine placements reflects a commitment to addressing these concerns while advancing the wind energy initiative.