ROSS COUNTY, Ohio — Ross County residents are voicing their concerns on social media about the accumulation of trash and debris allegedly resulting from the Yellowbud Solar Farm Project. Images circulating online show debris, cut trees, and trash being dumped into a local creek, with some photos featuring labels indicating “First Solar, Inc.”
The images depict uprooted trees and other waste material being discarded along Deer Creek, a popular spot for local children to swim and fish. One resident criticized the actions, stating, “What kind of person would dump boards with chemicals and nails in Deer Creek where kids like to swim and fish? You are a low life.”
Ohio EPA records indicate that the site was inspected on April 13, 2023, following a complaint against the project and Kiewit Power Constructors, the company managing the solar farm’s development. No violations were found during that inspection. However, in August 2022, the project received two notices of violation from the EPA for sediment discharges affecting adjacent property.
As of January 2024, there have been no additional inspections of the site by the Ohio EPA. The situation remains under scrutiny as local residents continue to express their concerns.