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MOORE STATION, Texas — Residents in a Moore Station fear a proposed solar energy project could strain local water supplies and threaten a rural way of life they’ve preserved for generations.
Moore Station, a historically Black freedmen’s settlement of fewer than 500 residents, said they are concerned a proposed solar project could strain local water supplies and bring long-term environmental and infrastructure impacts.
“We’re friendly, everybody knows everybody here,” said one resident, describing the tight-knit nature of the community.
Residents and local officials said they first learned of the project only recently, as construction activity began appearing on land surrounding the community.
Mayor Greg Davis said residents were initially told the project would be a solar farm exporting energy but details have since evolved, with questions emerging over water usage, land scope and environmental impact.
Davis said the proposed operation has reportedly requested tens of thousands of gallons of water per day from the Moore Station water system, which he said is already operating near capacity.
Community members worry the demand could overwhelm local infrastructure and deplete groundwater resources that serve hundreds of customers across the region, including nearby rural areas.
Residents like Traylon Shead, who has lived in the area for more than 30 years, said the land represents generations of family history and livelihood.
“I got three kids at home. I want to have something they can enjoy and something their kids can grow up on,” Shead said. “With the impact on our water system, it is just going to deplete us and run us out.”
Shead said the property is more than open pasture. It is the foundation of a rural lifestyle built on farming, cattle and family legacy.
“People pass by and see just open field, but it is not. It’s blood, sweat and tears from getting off work and building this place,” Shead said. “We just have to come together and pull as much information as we can to learn about what is going on and hopefully we can put a stop to it.”
Local leaders said a community meeting was held Friday to inform residents ahead of a larger discussion scheduled for June 10 with county officials, developers and engineers.
