Resources for further information
Welcome to our resources page, where you can find a wealth of helpful information. We've gathered links to articles, maps, and other resources, to deepen your understanding of the projects we are opposed to.
Other Groups
There are a number of dedicated groups across Central Texas fighting this project. Below are a few links to active groups near Burnet County.
765kV Power Line i1
A private Facebook group led by community members along the i1 segment of the Bell County Easy to Big Hill 765kV proposal.
Friends of the San Saba River
Friends of the San Saba River (“FOSS”) is leading the fight against the three proposed routes for the Oncor/LCRA 765kV high-voltage transmission line. FOSS released the following video that explains how the proposed transmission line threatens the San Saba River.
The Edwards Plateau Alliance
Affected by the same transmission project as the Burnet Hill Country, this group is working to preserve their natural resources by creating community through communication in order to engage in education regarding preservation and conservation of natural resources, wildlife, habitat, ranching heritage and rural community within the geographic area known as the Edwards-Trinity Aquifer.
STOP: Bell County East - Big Hill 765
A public Facebook group of individuals against the Bell County Easy to Big Hill 765kV proposal
This link will take you to an interactive map from the LCRA, where you can see clearly the proposed lines, the lots notified (those with property the lines runs across, and those with a livable structure within 500 feet of the center line of the proposed power line), and where the line sits over satellite imagery (viewer must toggle the "6in Imagery" layer in top right corner of the screen).
The Burnet County Historical Commission has agreed to write a resolution against the transmission line project, and they are stepping up to be a wonderful ally in advocating for our county.
They have also created a committee, and are in the process of compiling a database of items and locations of historical importance that are likely to be affected by the proposed transmission lines. They would like to help advocate for us, as well as document officially the historic sites (to the level that they are able).
If you are willing, please consider filling out this short survey for them (linked in title).
This link will take you to the American Energy Works podcast done by Molly Vogt, where she interviews Dr Brent Bennett from the Texas Public Policy Foundation. He gives a great explanation of what is really happening with the rising electricity costs, transmission projects, and alternative solutions. (The second half of the interview is the most applicable to our situation.)
Due to overwhelming public concerns received by LCRA and Oncor, the PUC has created a public docket in which concerned citizens can file their comments. The public comments for the Bell County East to Big Hill 765kV line are in docket 58559.
This is the detailed ERCOT plan to "provide reliable service for their customers and to protect the ratepayer," at a rate-payer cost of $33 billion (estimated to actually be $80 billion after financing and yearly maintenance costs). (Click here for a helpful summary of the full document posted by a local business.)
Every land owner should understand the true risks of this project, including the effect on the value of their land. Eminent domain settlements are only part of the story.
Lone Star Land Protection seeks to educate and support landowners who face potential acquisition of their property rights. Whether you have been approached by utilities seeking easements for high voltage transmission lines, pipelines, access, or even subsurface mineral leases, they aim to equip and prepare you with the tools and knowledge you need to make an informed decision. They can provide specialized consultations based on the unique nature of your property. Then, drawing on their in-depth knowledge of utility regulations, land rights, and local geography, with your permission they can work directly with utility representatives, permitting agencies, environmental authorities, etc., to explore alternative routes, and provide the information and understanding of your land necessary to mitigate and negotiate.
