First steps taken for public-led beautification effort of BPA right-of-way

When most people see what looks like a vacant lot overgrown  with weeds and peppered with litter, they would probably ignore it. But not Stormi Hoebelheinrich. She saw the potential in BPA's fee-owned Ross-Lexington No. 1 transmission line right-of-way in Vancouver, Washington. As a member of the general public and local community who sees the 1-acre property between NE Minnehaha Steet and 17^th daily, Hoebelheinrich envisioned the possibility of the ROW as a thriving epicenter of regenerative agriculture – a beacon of community engagement and environmental stewardship.

Hoebelheinrich's unique proposal for the ROW ultimately came to BPA's Pollinator Workgroup. Phrases like practice of permaculture, biodiversity and regenerative agriculture principles made the group jump with excitement. Her detailed 22-page proposal described the project's aim to “operate as a market-garden style farm, focusing on a blend of native plants and pollinator-friendly species, alongside marketable agricultural product."

Recognizing that enhancement of biodiversity and the provision of a sanctuary for pollinators are crucial for ecosystem health, Hoebelheinrich ensured those principles were the foundation of her proposal. She envisioned her design would not only produce local, sustainable products but also act as a model and source of inspiration for the community. Moreover, selling goods grown on-site supports the project's longevity and financial sustainability, preventing financial burden on BPA.  

But before the ROW revitalization project could begin to move forward, several questions needed to be addressed: What actions are realistic under BPA transmission lines? Are there hidden utility lines buried? Are there any historic property rights restrictions? Are there any parts of the proposal that are problematic? How will the area be irrigated and what infrastructure is needed?

Key to answering these questions was Billie Woodman, a realty specialist who works at BPA's Ross Complex nearby. Her research uncovered an agricultural rights agreement with Clark County from 1940 that would require Hoebelheinrich to obtain permission from the county to bring her project to fruition. Woodman also discovered an underground storm sewer pipeline and shed light on the land use application procedure to help BPA ensure any actions taken at the ROW site would be environmentally compliant.

Brian Luis, natural resource specialist for this ROW, identified which parts of the proposal are incompatible with BPA's vegetation management practices. For instance, it would not be permissible to plant trees and access roads must remain free of obstructions.

After two months of internal discussions, BPA's team present Hoebelheinrich with its findings and recommendations. BPA supports Hoebelheinrich's vision, but it will take several years before the property reaches its full potential. The next steps are for Hoebelheinrich to coordinate with Clark County and sign a land use agreement.