Sherman County is seeking volunteers to serve on the Biglow Ag Mitigation Fund Selection Committee. This is a unique opportunity to help guide investments that will strengthen Sherman County’s agricultural economy for years to come.
The Biglow Solar Project is being added to the existing Biglow Canyon Wind Farm. Because a portion of agricultural land will be converted to solar energy production, a Community Investment Fund has been established by PGE as the project’s sponsor to invest in projects that offset potential impacts while strengthening the long-term resilience and vitality of Sherman County’s agricultural community. This fund is guided by a Community Investment Plan that was part of the Oregon Energy Facility Siting Council’s approval of the solar project.
The Mid-Columbia Economic Development District (MCEDD) will administer the fund and manage the application process while supporting the Selection Committee throughout the review process. The Selection Committee will review and evaluate eligible funding proposals using the criteria established in the approved Community Investment Plan and make funding recommendations to the Sherman County Court, which will make the final funding decisions.
Sherman County is currently seeking applicants for three voting positions:
- One dryland farm producer in Sherman County
- One community member
- One individual with expertise in wildfire as it relates to agricultural lands
Committee members can expect to contribute a total of approximately 8–15 hours, including a review of the Community Investment Plan and funding materials, application review, and two or more committee meetings. The committee may also support future agricultural mitigation fund opportunities. Applications for the Biglow Ag Mitigation Fund Selection Committee will be accepted until August 24, 2026 and are available here: Sherman County Citizen Volunteer Interest Form.
You may also contact project manager Jill Catherine at jillc@mcedd.org for an application or for answers to your questions. Completed applications should be emailed to her at jillc@mcedd.org.
If you’re passionate about Sherman County’s agricultural future and want to help ensure these funds create lasting benefits for our community, we encourage you to apply.
For more information, please contact:
Jill Catherine
Project Manager
Mid-Columbia Economic Development District (MCEDD)
jillc@mcedd.org
541-296-2266 ext. 1006