LibGuides: Power Line Controversy: Overview

Overview

The power line controversy arose from the routing of a high-voltage power line through western and central Minnesota. The line has 659 towers placed at intervals of one-quarter mile on the property of 476 landowners. The controversy escalated as costs of the project rose and additional frustration was created by review processes, and by what many protesters saw as excessive concern by the federal and state governments for wildlife areas and highway right of ways at the expense of protection for productive farmland. In addition to local and state government, the controversy involved political parties, churches, civic organizations, and businesses in communities throughout the affected region.

Research Options

Visit the MNHS Library
Original materials, records, and newspapers on microfilm are available on site and reference staff can help with research.
MNHS Research Services
Order copies of records, articles, or other specific materials from the MNHS collections.
Interlibrary Loan
MNHS loans out most microfilm materials. Contact your local library for more information and assistance with this service.
Online Research
Some items such as newspapers, articles, photos and objects are available online. Look for links within this guide.
Other Libraries
Many books listed in the Secondary Sources page can be borrowed from other libraries.

Related Research Guides & Webpages

Nuclear Power Plants
A guide listing resources available at the MNHS library about the development and controversies surrounding nuclear power plants.