A proposed data center in Bonner, east of Missoula, stalled this week after the industrial park’s general manager withdrew his backing for the project, citing community concerns about environmental impacts.
Mike Heisey, who manages Bonner Mill Industrial Park, removed his signature from the application submitted by Krambu, an Idaho-based data center company. The facility had been planned for the former UFP Edge building at the industrial park, which sits on the grounds of the shuttered Stimson Mill.
Heisey said in a brief statement that the company would “continue to actively pursue clients for the mill site,” indicating the property remains available for other development. He did not elaborate on conversations with Krambu or the details of his decision. Krambu did not respond to a request for comment.
Environmental Concerns Drive Opposition
Public opposition to the project centered on water consumption, noise levels, and the risk of pollution to the nearby Blackfoot River. The proposed facility was expected to use 7 megawatts of power initially, with potential expansion to 100 megawatts.
The data center would have required significant water resources and electricity to operate, concerns that resonated with residents and environmental advocates in the region. The Blackfoot River, a critical water resource for the area, became a focal point in the debate over whether the facility could operate without degrading water quality or quantity.
County Moves on Data Center Oversight
Missoula County commissioners scheduled a vote on an interim data center zoning moratorium for Thursday at 2 p.m. in the Sophie Moiese Room of the county courthouse. If approved, the measure would temporarily halt development of new data centers or expansions to existing facilities.
The moratorium would not have affected Krambu’s application, which was already submitted. However, the county’s move reflects broader concerns about how data centers fit into the regional landscape.
County regulations adopted in 2021 restrict data centers to industrial zones and require a special exemption if they are located near residential areas. Current rules also mandate electronic waste recycling verification and renewable energy guarantees. However, the regulations do not address water quality, water quantity, air quality, heat, noise, or vibration—gaps that may be addressed if the moratorium is approved.
If commissioners approve the interim zoning, the county must initiate a study within 30 days to verify that an emergency exists. The moratorium would remain in place for up to one year and could be extended for another year while the county develops more comprehensive standards.
History of Intensive Uses at Bonner
The Bonner Mill Industrial Park has a history of energy-intensive operations. A cryptocurrency mining operation ran at the site from 2017 to 2020, attracting controversy over electricity consumption and heat generation. The Stimson Mill, which operated for decades, closed in 2008 and left behind industrial infrastructure that subsequent operators have sought to repurpose.
The collapse of the Krambu project leaves the future of the site uncertain, though Heisey’s commitment to finding new tenants suggests ongoing interest in industrial redevelopment.
