Idaho Attorney General Applauds President Trump’s Executive Order Halting Lava Ridge Wind Project and Vows to Continue Idaho’s Fight in the Courts
[BOISE] – Idaho Attorney General Raúl Labrador commends President Donald J. Trump for his decisive action in signing an executive order that temporarily halts the Lava Ridge Wind Project in Idaho.
The Lava Ridge Wind Project, proposed by Magic Valley Energy, has faced significant opposition from local communities, cultural preservation groups, and state officials due to its potential adverse impacts on Idaho’s natural landscapes, historical sites, and agricultural resources.
Attorney General Labrador stated, “President Trump’s executive order is a victory for the people of Idaho. It acknowledges the legitimate concerns raised by our communities regarding the preservation of our state’s heritage and the protection of our natural resources. This pause allows for a thorough review of the project to ensure Idaho’s values and interests are protected.
The executive order mandates a comprehensive review of federal wind energy leasing and permitting practices, reflecting the administration’s commitment to balancing energy development with environmental stewardship and cultural preservation.
Attorney General Labrador has been a vocal opponent of the Lava Ridge project, citing its potential to harm Idaho’s farms, ranches, rural communities, water supplies, wildlife, and historical sites, including the Minidoka National Historic Site.
“Idaho’s rich history and vibrant communities must not be compromised by projects that do not take into account the full spectrum of their impacts,” Attorney General Labrador added. “I look forward to working with federal, state, and local partners to ensure that any further action on the Lava Ridge project reflects the priorities of Idahoans.
Attorney General Labrador also reaffirmed his continued commitment to defend Idaho’s interests in court against any challenges to this executive order or any efforts to go ahead with the project. On Tuesday, Labrador filed the opening brief in his challenge to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) determination that proposed wind turbines posed no hazard to aviation. The FAA decision was a critical part of the Bureau of Land Management’s Record of Decision approving the Lava Ridge project. “We are prepared to fight in court to ensure Idahoans’ voices are heard and our way of life is protected. If the FAA determination is successfully invalidated, the project cannot move forward,” he said.
The Executive Order can be read HERE.
