We’re excited to share our latest Harvey Solar project update. Each month, we’ll highlight what we’re working on and how the project is moving forward. Right now, the project is in the design phase, the stage where the engineering and site layout details are being developed in coordination with state and local agencies, along with our internal teams. This month, we’re focusing on an important part of many Ohio farms: drain tile.
The Importance of Drain Tile
Across Ohio, many farm fields use buried drainage pipes (often called drain tile) to help water move out of the soil after heavy rains. Good drainage helps fields dry out sooner, reduces erosion, and maintains soil health.
Since drain tile is located underground, it is not always obvious where it runs. That’s why it’s important to look for tile early in the project design phase and take steps to protect it. This site analysis helps our team understand where existing drain tile should be avoided, where it may require repairs or upgrades, and where it may need to be replaced or rerouted based on future site layout and construction needs.
Our goal is simple: understand what’s in the ground and create a drain tile management plan before construction even begins. We’ll stay in touch and work side-by-side with landowners, local agencies, and drain tile experts throughout the process.
Responsible Drain Tile Management
Survey and gather information: We review any available maps and past records, and we walk the fields with the landowner or tenant to understand where drainage outlets, ditches, and wet areas are located.
Identify and map key drain tile areas: We bring in qualified specialists to help locate and map buried lines to help inform project design and field plans.
Inform project design and planning: We use the information we collect to adjust construction areas, access routes, and work methods to reduce the chance of disturbing drain tile. Where needed, we’ll repair, upgrade or even replace drain tile altogether.
Protect drainage during construction: Construction crews receive clear instructions on sensitive areas. If work must occur near drain tile, we use practical measures to reduce the risk of damage.
Repair and restore promptly: If a line is damaged, we coordinate with drain tile experts to repair it using appropriate materials and methods and restore proper water flow.
Check our work: After major construction activities are complete, we look for signs that drainage is working as it should and pay close attention after rainfall.
Maintain communication: We keep landowners informed about planned activities, points of contact, and how to report any drainage concerns.
We know farm drainage is important, and we take that seriously. By planning ahead, working with people who know local drainage systems, and staying responsive during and after construction, we aim to protect field drainage and support long-term land productivity.
Our Commitment to Community
This month, our Harvey Solar team spent time in Licking County meeting with neighbors, local leaders, and community partners. We shared project updates, listened to feedback, and answered questions along the way.
One highlight was meeting with the GROW Licking County Infrastructure Committee. We were able to introduce members of our team and talk through how we work together across project design, planning, and community outreach. We appreciated their time and the opportunity to answer questions.
Project Timeline
We know projects like this can raise questions, and we’re committed to sharing timely updates and staying connected throughout each step.
Looking ahead:
Initial site preparation and early groundwork are expected to begin in summer 2026.
Construction is expected to begin in fall 2026 and will take about two years to complete.
Operations are targeted to begin in 2028.
We’re Here to Answer Your Questions
If you have any questions about the project, our team, or upcoming activities, please feel free to reach out at any time at reports@syntrio.com or 877-847-0828.
Projects like this can bring questions, and we are committed to open and ongoing communication. Thank you for welcoming us into the community. We appreciate the opportunity to be here and continue listening, learning, and working together as the project moves forward.
You can view previous Harvey Solar updates at the articles below:
Founded in Texas in 2003, LRE (Leeward Renewable Energy) owns and operates 30+ wind, solar, and energy storage projects totaling over 4GW nationwide. LRE continues to help meet increased U.S. energy demand through our robust pipeline of new projects every year. We prioritize domestic jobs, local community partnerships, and protecting the land in our long-term approach to meet American energy needs. To learn more, visit www.lreus.com.
