Dear Mr. Vandrei and Ms. Millar,
It has come to the Seneca Nation’s attention that there is a possible discrepancy in the identification of a bone found during a Phase 1B cultural resources survey conducted by Panamerica Consultants, Inc. (“Panamerica”) for Invenergy’s Horseshoe Solar Project off Golah Road, Avon, NY (NYSPHO# 18PR07941). It has been reported that the consultant who arrived on scene determined the bone to be human, only to reclassify it as heron. We are unsure if the bone of interest is human or heron. At this time, we ask that you cease and desist from all activities until all parties can better understand and investigate this situation. We also believe that if the bone is indeed human there is a possibility more remains could be exposed on the surface. We ask Invenergy to return to the location where the bone was documented and try to locate and properly identify the bone in cooperation with the Seneca Nation. If it is determined to be human, we require Invenergy to properly secure the location, ensure the integrity of the location, and facilitate reinternment of all exposed remains with the participation of the descendant communities.
Seneca Nation is also aware of “artifact collectors” on site waiting to walk over the survey area after the company leaves the area. We ask Invenergy to develop a “No Trespassing” policy on the surveyed areas. We believe the presence of Panamerica doing their survey is drawing the attention of looters. We know there are numerous burials and cemeteries in the area and we do not want their resting places compromised and desecrated. After this matter is resolved, we encourage Invenergy to invest in a tribal monitor for the duration of the surveying for this project in order to protect the historical resources located on this site.
Seneca Nation is committed to clean energy and working with our neighbors. We find it important that our partners do their part to respect all Seneca and Haudenosaunee people living or deceased. Thank you for your attention in this manner.
Sincerely,
Rickey L. Armstrong, Sr., President,
SENECA NATION
