Offshore wind farms bring many uncertainties to RI fishing industry, consumers
Credit: Chris Lee, Guest columnist | Published: April 23, 2023 | capecodtimes.com ~~
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“Developing wind farms and their array of cable is little different than strip mining mountains for coal.”
Alex Kuffner’s article “In a breakthrough year for offshore wind, RI is playing a key role” (News, April 8) informs the reader of developments in the current state of offshore wind. There is a significant component of residents who worry about this.
I refer to those who fish – commercially, recreationally and for-hire fishermen (charter) – as well as those who depend on them to catch fish, such as Rhode Island’s seafood processors, and ultimately consumers. Those who depend on Rhode Island’s millions of dollars of seafood face uncertain futures. This uncertainty is palpable in these communities and there is a feeling that mitigation taking place between wind developers and those who fish lacks consideration of any equity to those being adversely impacted.
These development projects are massive feats of modern engineering; like all energy projects there are adverse consequences to our local environment and economy. Perhaps most notably, the Orsted sites South Fork and Revolution both occupy significant portions of Cox Ledge. Cox Ledge is an area of significant habitat for marine life, including cod and other commercially important species.
Offshore wind development poses a challenge to Rhode Island’s fishing businesses that depend on a healthy marine environment.
To many who fish these areas, developing wind farms and their array of cable is little different than strip mining mountains for coal in other parts of the country.
There is significant disruption to the environment. Boulders are moved; habitat is disrupted to drive massive pilings into the sea floor and connect a cable between them and the shore. There is substantial long-term uncertainty: Will altered wind patterns impact productivity in these areas, disrupting the offshore food chain? If so, there would be regionally catastrophic ecological and economic consequences.
These unknowns and the adverse impact they may have are keeping people awake at night. People who own businesses depend on healthy marine environments to make a living. Once installed the monopiles and cables will become a navigational hazard to those who make their living at sea. Commercially fishable space will be reduced and constrained; fishermen will be forced into different areas and further crowding. Injury and the possible loss of life because of the increased crowding of boats and wind turbines is a real concern.
This may all be out of sight for most people, but it should not be out of mind. Yes, climate change is of global concern, but do not be fooled into thinking this is benign infrastructure. This is a massive development of a currently undeveloped area and comes with both local environmental and economic impact.
Local communities will be altered and I do not believe for the better.
Chris Lee is the director at Sea Fresh USA in North Kingstown.
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