Large Transmission Lines Proposed by Sharyland Utilities Threaten Natural Beauty of Palo Duro Canyon (Updated 7/11/10)
Palo Duro Canyon, located just south of Amarillo in the Texas Panhandle, is a uniquely beautiful canyon full of rich colors and scenic views. Often referred to as the "Grand Canyon of Texas," it is the second largest canyon in the United States, second only to the Grand Canyon, and is, without question, one of the most striking landscapes in the country.
This beauty doesn't go unnoticed. In an area mostly flat and void of geologic features, Amarilloans and other local residents, as well as visitors to the area, are drawn to the canyon, displaying pictures of its features on their walls and exploring its wonders at the Palo Duro Canyon State Park. Private ranches along the canyon entertain people with cowboy breakfasts, campouts and other events. Homes are being built along the rim where homeowners and their guests enjoy the extraordinary views. All of this could come to an end soon, though, for one of the most unique portions of the canyon.Sharyland Utilities, a Dallas-based utility company led by Hunter Hunt, has recently submitted 5 of 12 route alternatives in their CCN application for a high-voltage 345kV transmission line, filed under PUCT Docket 38290, which cut straight across the northernmost tip of the canyon (hereinafter, the "North Palo Duro Canyon"), an eight-mile stretch of strikingly beautiful private canyon located twelve miles south of Amarillo and just north of the Palo Duro Canyon State Park.
