BPA is considering four alternative routes from Castle Rock to Troutdale, Ore., for its new transmission line. Line O is the most easterly alternative. The Yale-Merwin, or Y-M, power line, which cuts through forested land in northern Clark County, is a smaller template that can tell us something about the risks and problems posed by line O. These risks and problems are related to the O line’s remoteness and the steep, heavily forested Yacolt Burn terrain it would cross — forest that vigorously regrows tall trees and also harbors forest fire potential. Compared to 500-kilovolt line O, Y-M carries 115 kilovolts, has shorter towers and a wider purchased easement in a more accessible location.
Nevertheless Y-M encounters risks and costs from replacement of power poles on steep slopes and from vegetation control both on and adjoining its easement. Dangerous trees, storm damage, vandalism, herbicide controversies and terrorism threats make it difficult to maintain and guard a remote transmission line. The Y-M line needs to go through the steep, forested terrain around Yale Dam because it carries power generated at that dam to market. BPA’s transmission line, carrying wind power generated in Eastern Washington, doesn’t need to go through such high-maintenance terrain.
Lee Witter
North Bend
