The snow is falling and the temperatures are plummeting, so we can safely say winter has arrived in the Highlands. The ski slopes are opening: White Grass has welcomed its first visit from Jack Frost, and everyone is once again enjoying the quiet beauty of the mountains. 

We want to thank all our supporters and members who have stood wih us throughout our case against the West Virginia Department of Environmental Protection, and their permitting of Fundamental Data’s Ridgeline Facility. We recently completed a two-day hearing before the Air Quality Board, where we presented both standing witnesses and an expert in air emissions. He testified clearly that the emissions calculations in Fundamental Data’s air quality permit were only estimates and failed to account for real-world fluctuations. Our attorney did a remarkable job, and we are hopeful for a positive outcome. The board now has 60 days to issue its decision. 

In the meantime, we will continue pushing for greater public awareness of this project and advancing our fundraising efforts to prepare for any necessary future appeals. Our other work continues as well, and your participation remains essential. In this issue of The Highlands Voice, you will meet our new board members. Please feel free to reach out to them—or to me—if you have questions, comments, or simply wish to talk about the issues we are facing. 

This is also the time for our end-of-year appeal. We are mailing letters to all of our supporters, and we hope you will give generously to sustain our efforts. We are currently preparing comments opposing the newly proposed siting rules for microgrids and data centers. We are also supporting our friends in Mingo County, who have filed a lawsuit challenging a proposed data center and microgrid developments in their community. Our work continues with our partners and allies, and we hope all of you will stay engaged as we strive to preserve and protect our environment. 

Our staff and board members are also continuing our dialogue on Corridor H and many other ongoing projects. The Dolly Sods Wilderness Stewards will continue to meet through the winter to set goals for the coming year. Anyone interested in joining this important work is encouraged to contact us. 

We are also developing a strategic plan that will guide the Highlands Conservancy through the next several years. While we cannot know what new challenges may arise, we are committed to being prepared—and to hearing from you as we chart this course. 

Have a wonderful holiday season and best wishes from the Board of Directors and the staff of the West Virginia Highlands Conservancy. Thank you again for your support. 

For our Highlands,  

Marilyn Shoenfeld  

President  

West Virginia Highlands Conservancy