Activists concerned about New Jersey’s offshore wind development.
Concerns Over Offshore Wind Development in New Jersey
Somewhere off the Jersey Shore, aboard the Parker Pete Express, conservation biologist Trisha DeVoe had a realization – they were too far out to encounter any whales. She quickly spoke with the captain, urging him to steer the boat towards land. Ms. DeVoe, along with other activists on the boat, were deeply concerned about the impact of wind power development on humpback whales, right whales, and other species, as well as the fishing industry, tourism, and property values.
The Marine Mammal Stranding Center (MMSC) has recorded a high number of humpback whale strandings in 2023 alone, which is alarming. Ms. DeVoe expressed her concern, stating that this is not normal. She attributed the increase in strandings to the significant offshore wind activity in the area.
The rapid development of offshore wind projects along the East Coast, with the goal of adding 30,000 megawatts of offshore wind by 2030, has raised further concerns. Activist Bob Stern highlighted the underestimated noise from surveying devices used in wind energy projects, while David Shanker of the Save Right Whales Coalition NJ warned about the potential harm to whales caused by intensive surveying.
Activist Bonnie Brady pointed out the damning evidence of young dead whales, indicating the detrimental impact of offshore wind development. However, government agencies such as the Department of Environmental Protection and NOAA Fisheries have been hesitant to link wind turbines to whale strandings, instead emphasizing the dangers of climate change.
The Lawsuits
Activists have taken legal action to challenge the approval of wind energy projects. Save Long Beach Island, led by Bob Stern, is suing NOAA Fisheries and the Department of Commerce over the granting of incidental harassment authorizations to wind energy developers. They argue that the site characterization for the turbines constitutes a higher level of harassment under the Marine Mammal Protection Act.
Meghan Lapp, representing the fishing company Seafreeze Shoreside, is involved in a separate lawsuit challenging the Vineyard Wind project off the coast of Martha’s Vineyard. They argue that the project infringes on the rights of fishermen and violates the Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act.
A Government Watchdog, an As-Yet-Unscheduled Congressional Hearing
Activists have also called for an investigation by the Government Accountability Office (GAO) to examine the impact of offshore wind turbines on marine wildlife. Representatives Jeff Van Drew and Chris Smith have been instrumental in pushing for more oversight and are working to schedule a congressional hearing on offshore wind.
Despite the ongoing surveying and development, the outcome of the offshore wind projects in New Jersey is uncertain. Activists like Mr. Shanker believe that responsible development is necessary, but the current approach is irresponsible. The vision of wind turbines dotting the horizon may remain just that if the concerns raised by activists are addressed and alternative solutions are explored.
How does the construction and operation of offshore wind turbines impact the communication and navigation of whales, potentially leading to increased strandings?
Ed by the construction and operation of offshore wind turbines. According to Shanker, the noise from pile driving and other construction activities can disrupt the communication and navigation of whales, leading to increased strandings and mortality.
Another concern raised by activists is the impact of offshore wind development on the fishing industry. Fishing communities along the Jersey Shore heavily rely on the rich marine biodiversity of the area for their livelihoods. The construction of wind turbines and the installation of underwater cables can disrupt fishing grounds and limit access to certain areas. This poses a significant threat to both commercial and recreational fishing, potentially resulting in job losses and economic decline for these coastal communities.
Furthermore, there are concerns about the impact of offshore wind on tourism and property values. Many people are drawn to the Jersey Shore for its natural beauty and pristine beaches. The sight of turbines on the horizon can detract from this scenic view, potentially discouraging tourists from visiting the area. Additionally, some worry that the construction of massive wind farms could devalue nearby properties, affecting both residents and real estate businesses.
Despite these concerns, proponents of offshore wind development argue that it is necessary to combat climate change and transition to renewable energy sources. They claim that the benefits of offshore wind, such as reduced greenhouse gas emissions and job creation, outweigh the potential negative impacts.
To address these concerns, it is crucial for policymakers, developers, and environmental organizations to collaborate and find solutions that minimize the negative effects of offshore wind development in New Jersey. This could include implementing strict regulations and monitoring systems to protect marine life, conducting thorough environmental impact assessments before approving projects, and exploring alternative locations for wind farms that have lesser ecological sensitivity.
Additionally, it is important to invest in research and technology that can mitigate the potential harm caused by offshore wind development. This includes developing quieter surveying devices and utilizing advanced monitoring techniques to ensure the safety and well-being of marine species.
In conclusion, while offshore wind development in New Jersey offers significant potential for renewable energy generation, it is essential to address the concerns regarding its impact on marine life, the fishing industry, tourism, and property values. Through careful planning, regulation, and technological advancements, it is possible to strike a balance between renewable energy goals and environmental sustainability. By prioritizing the protection of marine ecosystems and the livelihoods of coastal communities, New Jersey can successfully harness the benefits of offshore wind while minimizing its negative consequences.
" Conservative News Daily does not always share or support the views and opinions expressed here; they are just those of the writer."
*As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases
Now loading...