NY Lawmaker Proposes Deforestation for Renewable Energy, Sparking Local Backlash

Bill would open up 11,000 acres of protected forests around Finger Lakes for wind and solar development without local approval

Apr. 3, 2026 at 8:19pm

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A tranquil oil painting depicting an old-growth forest in the Finger Lakes region, with sunlight filtering through the trees and casting long shadows across the forest floor, conveying a sense of timelessness and natural beauty under threat.A serene forest landscape in upstate New York faces an uncertain future as state lawmakers consider clearing the land for renewable energy projects.NYC Today

A new bill sponsored by New York state senator Rachel May would allow the deforestation of around 11,000 acres of protected forests and ecosystems around the Finger Lakes region to make way for wind turbines and solar panels. The proposal has faced strong opposition from local officials and residents who argue it would devastate a crucial water source and scenic area that has been protected for centuries.

Why it matters

The Finger Lakes region is home to an important watershed that provides drinking water for over 2 million New Yorkers. The proposed deforestation could have significant environmental impacts on the local ecosystem, wildlife, and recreational activities. The bill also raises concerns about the state overriding local control and community input on major land use decisions.

The details

Senator Rachel May's bill would open up hundreds of thousands of acres of protected lands across New York to 'renewable energy developers' without requiring approval from county or town governing boards. In the Finger Lakes region specifically, the bill targets around 11,000 acres, including 7,600 acres around the Hemlock Lake watershed, which local officials say is a crucial and historically protected water source and scenic area.

  • The bill is currently working its way through the New York state senate.

The players

Rachel May

A Democratic state senator in New York who has sponsored the bill to open up protected forests for renewable energy development.

David LeFeber

The Avon Town Supervisor who has expressed concern that the bill would allow solar and wind companies to 'ruin the scenic forestlands' around the Hemlock Lake watershed.

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What they’re saying

“We have 11,000 total acres. 7,600 is around the Hemlock Lake area. The Hemlock Lake watershed. This is a very important water source. It's been protected for centuries...it's a scenic scenic area in our county.”

— David LeFeber, Avon Town Supervisor

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow the bill to proceed.

The takeaway

This case highlights the tensions between state-level renewable energy goals and local community concerns over environmental protection and land use decisions. It raises questions about how to balance sustainable energy development with preserving sensitive ecosystems and respecting the wishes of affected residents.