The Advocate Editorial Board Newark and Licking County have received tremendous news recently - news that could have lasting positive impacts for decades. The proposed 108 megawatt solar field on 512 acres of Harrison Township farmland is likely to be a huge win for the area. The privately-financed project from Union Ridge Solar would place a large solar farm near the AEP Kirk substation on Watkins Road. It must go through a fairly rigorous approval process with the state before it can become a reality. Construction may not be completed until the end of 2022 if things go as planned. While the construction would likely cause some headaches in the area, once it is operational there will be little traffic to the site.