East Wenatchee

East Wenatchee, Washington, is a location that has recently gained attention due to two separate news events. In 2024, members of the Wenatchi-P’squosa tribe and supporters protested an industrial-scale solar facility proposed by Avangrid on Badger Mountain, a site considered sacred to Indigenous nations. This protest led to the developer canceling its permit application. Additionally, the area near East Wenatchee was impacted by the Chelan Hills Fire in July 2026, which destroyed a firefighting rig and caused significant debris. While the fire itself occurred in Orondo, the proximity and potential impact on surrounding communities like East Wenatchee make it relevant. The location is thus newsworthy due to both environmental/cultural preservation concerns and the aftermath of a significant wildfire.