Offshore Wind Energy | NOAA Fisheries

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region-content"> <div data-drupal-messages-fallback class="hidden"></div> <div class="hero hero--nomargin"> <div class="hero__banner" style="background-image: linear-gradient(135deg, rgba(2, 22, 39, .73), rgba(0, 51, 93, .59) 50%, rgba(6, 45, 98, 0)), url('/s3//styles/inline_field_banner/s3/2022-01/block-island_wind_turbine_construction_1280x800_Credit-NOAA-Fisheries.png?itok=Cs-cWzI4');"> <div class="container"> <div class="row"> <div class="hero__content col-md-12"> <h1 class="hero__title display">Offshore Wind Energy</h1> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="hero-subnav__wrapper topic_wrapper"><div class="container hero-sub-nav__container"> <nav class="hero-sub-nav"> <a style="text-decoration: none;" href="/topic/offshore-wind-energy/overview" class="sub-nav__link link hero-link--subnav hero-sub-nav__link--active" data-id="overview">Overview</a> <a style="text-decoration: none;" href="/topic/offshore-wind-energy/assessing-impacts-to-marine-life" class="sub-nav__link link hero-link--subnav " data-id="assessing-impacts-to-marine-life">Assessing Impacts to Marine Life</a> <a style="text-decoration: none;" href="/topic/offshore-wind-energy/evaluating-impacts-to-fisheries" class="sub-nav__link link hero-link--subnav " data-id="evaluating-impacts-to-fisheries">Evaluating Impacts to Fisheries</a> </nav> </div> </div> <div class="container"> <div class="row"> <div class="col-md-12"> <div> <div class="topic-custom"> <div class="topic-custom__content"> <div class="subnav-tab"> <div class="subnav-tab__content subnav-tab__content--active" id=overview> <div class="row"> <div class="subnav-tab__main col-md-12 col-lg-8"> <h2 class="subnav-tab__title">Offshore Wind Energy</h2> <div class="subnav-tab__main-content"> <div class="tab-meta-data hidden"> <div class="meta-page-heading"></div> <div class="meta-title"></div> <div class="meta-decs">NOAA Fisheries supports responsible development and research of offshore wind energy technology to combat the climate crisis and build a clean energy economy.</div> </div> <div class="wyswyg-edit field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field--item"><p dir="ltr"><span>Responsible development of offshore wind energy is critical to U.S. efforts to </span><a href="https://www.fisheries.noaa.gov/topic/climate-change"><span>combat the climate crisis</span></a><span>, grow the U.S. renewable energy sector, and support a thriving </span><a href="https://www.noaa.gov/blue-economy"><span>Blue Economy</span></a><span>. Construction and operations are underway on the Atlantic Outer Continental Shelf, and new offshore wind energy areas are in stages of planning, leasing, and permitting along the East and West Coasts, the Gulf of Mexico, the U.S. Caribbean, and the Pacific Islands. We have been working towards a goal of deploying </span><a href="https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/presidential-actions/2021/01/27/executive-order-on-tackling-the-climate-crisis-at-home-and-abroad/"><span>30 gigawatts of offshore wind energy by 2030</span></a><span> while protecting biodiversity and promoting ocean co-use, and </span><a href="https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/statements-releases/2022/09/15/fact-sheet-biden-harris-administration-announces-new-actions-to-expand-u-s-offshore-wind-energy/"><span>15 gigawatts of floating offshore wind energy by 2035</span></a><span>. Many states have set their own ambitious renewable energy goals for development in both state and federal waters.</span></p><p dir="ltr"><span>The </span><a href="https://www.boem.gov/renewable-energy"><span>Bureau of Ocean Energy Management</span></a><span> (BOEM) is the lead federal agency for offshore energy exploration and development in the United States. NOAA Fisheries’ role in supporting this development includes assessing impacts to marine species and their habitats, and advancing scientific research for informed decision making. NOAA has various roles in offshore wind that include supporting marine spatial planning and siting and environmental review during construction and operation and through decommissioning.</span></p><p><span>Offshore wind is a new use of our marine waters, but NOAA Fisheries has decades of experience in scientific and regulatory review. We are largely a </span><a href="https://www.fisheries.noaa.gov/topic/consultations"><span>consulting federal agency</span></a><span>, including providing </span><a href="https://www.fisheries.noaa.gov/new-england-mid-atlantic/consultations/section-7-biological-opinions-greater-atlantic-region"><span>Biological Opinions</span></a><span> for marine resources under our Endangered Species Act jurisdiction. We also review applications and grant </span><a href="https://www.fisheries.noaa.gov/national/marine-mammal-protection/incidental-take-authorizations-other-energy-activities-renewable"><span>authorizations,</span></a><span> as appropriate, under the Marine Mammal Protection Act, and carry out scientific activities to understand and monitor the marine environment. NOAA Fisheries’ advice, recommendations, and authorizations are based on the best available science. </span></p><h3>Our Role: <span>Regulatory and Scientific Support for Planning and Development</span></h3><p dir="ltr"><span>We work regularly with BOEM, the </span><a href="https://www.boem.gov/working-bureau-safety-and-environmental-enforcement"><span>Bureau of Safety and Environmental Enforcement</span></a><span>, offshore wind developers, fishing communities, tribal nations, and other partners. We are considering offshore wind’s impacts on marine ecosystems, NOAA Fisheries’ scientific surveys, and ocean uses throughout the phases of </span><a href="https://www.boem.gov/sites/default/files/documents/about-boem/Wind-Energy-Comm-Leasing-Process-FS-01242017Text-052121Branding.pdf"><span>offshore wind project development</span></a><span>. We support responsible offshore wind development in a number of ways including:</span></p><h4><span>Environmental Reviews: Assessing Risks to Natural Resources</span></h4><p dir="ltr"><span>To support the conservation of coastal and marine resources, we evaluate ocean use activities and their potential impacts on marine species, their habitats, and fishing communities. We are responsible for consultations and engage in several regulatory processes in offshore wind energy development, including responsibilities under the: </span></p><ul class="list--arrow"><li><a href="https://www.fisheries.noaa.gov/topic/laws-policies#marine-mammal-protection-act"><span>Marine Mammal Protection Act</span></a></li><li><a href="https://www.fisheries.noaa.gov/topic/laws-policies#endangered-species-act"><span>Endangered Species Act</span></a></li><li><a href="https://www.fisheries.noaa.gov/topic/laws-policies#magnuson-stevens-act"><span>Magnuson-Stevens Act</span></a></li><li><a href="https://www.fisheries.noaa.gov/topic/laws-policies#more-laws"><span>Fish and Wildlife Coordination Act</span></a></li><li><a href="https://www.fisheries.noaa.gov/topic/laws-policies/national-environmental-policy-act"><span>National Environmental Policy Act</span></a></li></ul><p dir="ltr"><a class="alt-link--more" href="https://www.fisheries.noaa.gov/topic/offshore-wind-energy/assessing-impacts-to-marine-life">Learn more about our environmental reviews of offshore wind energy projects</a></p><h4>Advancing Scientific Research to Support Informed Decision Making</h4><p dir="ltr"><span>NOAA Fisheries scientists conduct research and collect data on the potential effects of offshore wind energy development on:</span></p><ul><li dir="ltr"><span>Fish and shellfish</span></li><li dir="ltr"><span>Protected marine species</span></li><li dir="ltr"><span>Habitat</span></li><li dir="ltr"><span>Fishing communities</span></li><li dir="ltr"><span>Research surveys </span></li></ul><p dir="ltr"><span>This scientific guidance and data can help fill gaps in other agencies’ and resource managers’ understanding of offshore wind energy’s potential interactions with ocean uses such as fishing, and with protected species and their habitats.</span></p><p dir="ltr"><a class="alt-link--more" href="https://repository.library.noaa.gov/"><span>More than 500 scientific research articles related to offshore wind energy by NOAA Fisheries researchers</span></a></p><p><span>Researchers </span><a href="https://www.noaa.gov/offshore-wind-energy"><span>across NOAA</span></a><span> have diverse and unique expertise in areas such as coastal and ocean mapping, meteorology, oceanography, biology, spatial modeling, and conservation. Together we provide BOEM with the best available science to inform offshore wind energy development decisions—such as site selection—in areas such as:</span></p><ul><li dir="ltr"><span>Environmental intelligence such as habitat and species distribution and density data. For example, we provide spatial data that are used to build comprehensive regional-scale </span><a href="https://coastalscience.noaa.gov/science-areas/offshore-wind-energy/spatial-planning/"><span>spatial suitability models</span></a><span> to assist in BOEM’s siting decisions </span></li><li dir="ltr"><span>Data and analysis on the abundance and biology of commercial and recreational fisheries, protected marine resources, and their habitats</span></li><li dir="ltr"><span>Information on </span><a href="https://www.fisheries.noaa.gov/national/science-data/ocean-noise"><span>how marine species use sound</span></a><span>, and the potential impacts of human-made noise on the underwater environment, including from offshore wind energy development</span></li></ul><p><span>Learn how we are </span><a href="https://www.fisheries.noaa.gov/topic/offshore-wind-energy/protecting-marine-life"><span>protecting marine life</span></a><span> and </span><a href="https://www.fisheries.noaa.gov/topic/offshore-wind-energy/fishing-community-impacts"><span>evaluating fishing impacts</span></a><span> from offshore wind development.</span></p><h3><span>Mitigating Impacts on Our Research Surveys</span></h3><p dir="ltr"><span>We are working with BOEM to identify strategies that can reduce the impacts of offshore wind energy development on our </span><a href="https://www.fisheries.noaa.gov/national/science-data/research-surveys"><span>research surveys</span></a><span>. Our long-term surveys and data sets are essential for sustainably managing fisheries. They also aid in monitoring and assessing recovery and </span><a href="https://www.fisheries.noaa.gov/about/office-protected-resources"><span>conservation programs for protected species</span></a><span> and </span><a href="https://www.fisheries.noaa.gov/national/habitat-conservation/essential-fish-habitat"><span>essential fish habitat</span></a><span>.</span></p><p><span>In 2021, NOAA Fisheries and BOEM announced their commitment to implement a </span><a href="https://www.fisheries.noaa.gov/feature-story/bureau-ocean-energy-management-and-noaa-demonstrate-power-government-wide-approach"><span>federal survey mitigation program</span></a><span> to reduce the impacts of offshore wind energy on NOAA Fisheries’ surveys. In 2022, we finalized a </span><a href="https://www.fisheries.noaa.gov/feature-story/noaa-fisheries-and-bureau-ocean-energy-management-announce-efforts-mitigate-impacts"><span>strategy</span></a><span> for the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic to guide the development and implementation of the program, which we are currently implementing. Similar efforts in other U.S. coastal regions are underway.</span></p><h3><span>Building a Collective Understanding of Potential Impacts</span></h3><p dir="ltr"><span>We work with federal agencies, including BOEM, and other experts on emerging science and additional collaborative opportunities related to the stewardship of the nation’s marine species and their habitats. Engaging with partners also helps facilitate efficient offshore wind planning. We actively work with federal and state agencies, tribes, and the private sector to develop data sharing agreements, joint scientific studies, and other opportunities. </span></p><p dir="ltr"><span>For example, </span><a href="https://www.nature.org/en-us/newsroom/new-study-fish-offshore-wind/"><span>we are partnering with The Nature Conservancy</span></a><span> to study how fish populations off the coast of Virginia respond to offshore wind turbine installation and related construction noise. This study will inform environmental impact assessments and management of offshore wind energy projects. </span></p><p dir="ltr"><span>Many of our collaborations so far have focused on the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic, where offshore wind energy development is furthest along. We are building networks and collaborations with partners in new areas on the West Coast and southeastern United States that have recently received leases off their coasts, or expect to soon.</span></p><p dir="ltr"><span>For example, our </span><a href="https://www.fisheries.noaa.gov/feature-story/new-science-plan-outlines-research-priorities-effects-offshore-wind-development-along"><span>West Coast Offshore Wind Energy Strategic Science Plan</span></a><span> is intended to help foster collaboration on research priorities and opportunities with our partners. The plan outlines our research needs to gauge the effects of wind turbines that could one day float off the West Coast.</span></p><p dir="ltr"><span>NOAA Fisheries collaborations include:</span></p><ul><li dir="ltr"><span>Federal agencies</span></li><li dir="ltr"><span>Tribal governments</span></li><li dir="ltr"><span>State and local agencies</span></li><li dir="ltr"><span>Commercial and recreational fishermen </span></li><li dir="ltr"><a href="https://www.fisheries.noaa.gov/topic/partners"><span>Regional Fishery Management Councils</span></a></li><li dir="ltr"><span>Interstate Marine Fisheries Commissions</span></li><li dir="ltr"><span>Environmental non-governmental organizations</span></li><li dir="ltr"><span>Offshore wind developers</span></li><li dir="ltr"><span>Science and research focused partnerships </span></li></ul></div> </div> <div class="subnav-tab__extra-content"> <hr> <div class="views-element-container"> <div class="horizontal-list__container"> <h2 class="horizontal-list__title horizontal-list__title--small">Featured News</h2> <div class="horizontal-list--2-column"> <div class="horizontal-list__item"> <div class="news-card"> <div class="news-card__image"> <div class="aspect-ratio--three-by-two"> <div class="aspect-ratio__content"> <img class="dam-image img-responsive" src="/s3//styles/inline_field_thumbnail/s3/2024-10/makah-tribal-marina-neah-bay.jpg?h=56d0ca2e&amp;itok=6QxAuFAY" width="540" height="360" alt="Vessels in Neah Bay" loading="lazy" typeof="foaf:Image" /> <span class="dam_caption">A newly acquired Makah trawling vessel in Neah Bay, being made ready to fish in the tribal whiting fishery. Credit: J.L. Ise/NOAA Fisheries</span> </div> </div> </div> <div class="news-card__content"> <div class="news-card__eyebrow">Feature Story</div> <h3 class="news-card__title"> <a href="/feature-story/new-science-plan-outlines-research-priorities-effects-offshore-wind-development-along" class="header-link news-card__title-link"> <span>New Science Plan Outlines Research Priorities on Effects of Offshore Wind Development Along the West Coast</span> </a> </h3> <div class="news-card__region"> <div class="regions "> <div class="regions__vocab"> <span class="west-coast"> <a class="link link--region link--region-west-coast" href="/region/west-coast">West Coast</a> </span> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="horizontal-list__item"> <div class="news-card"> <div class="news-card__image"> <div class="aspect-ratio--three-by-two"> <div class="aspect-ratio__content"> <img class="dam-image img-responsive" src="/s3//styles/inline_field_thumbnail/s3/2023-06/2500x1667-wind-turbines-small-ship-rhode-island-nefsc.jpg?h=41f55a5b&amp;itok=POZ0flwm" width="540" height="360" alt="Overcast day with mostly gray and silver tones. In the background at left, a line of 8 offshore windmills tower over the horizon. In the foreground, a small boat open-decked boat with a flat roof is silhouetted against a shining sea" loading="lazy" typeof="foaf:Image" /> <span class="dam_caption">A small fishing vessel near wind turbines. Credit: Bob Brewer on Unsplash</span> </div> </div> </div> <div class="news-card__content"> <div class="news-card__eyebrow">Podcast</div> <h3 class="news-card__title"> <a href="/podcast/studying-sound-ocean-prepare-offshore-wind-development" class="header-link news-card__title-link"> <span>Studying Sound in the Ocean to Prepare for Offshore Wind Development</span> </a> </h3> <div class="news-card__region"> <div class="regions "> <div class="regions__vocab"> <span class="mid-atlantic"> <a class="link link--region link--region-mid-atlantic" href="/region/mid-atlantic">New England/Mid-Atlantic</a> </span> </div> <div class="regions__vocab"> <span class="national"> <a class="link link--region link--region-national" href="/about-us">National</a> </span> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="horizontal-list__footer"> </div> </div> <div class="horizontal-list__container"> <div class="horizontal-list--2-column"> <div class="horizontal-list__item"> <div class="news-card"> <div class="news-card__image"> <div class="aspect-ratio--three-by-two"> <div class="aspect-ratio__content"> <img class="dam-image img-responsive" src="/s3//styles/inline_field_thumbnail/s3/2024-04/4032x2688-Drix-Pell-Bridge-nefsc.png?h=1b6b5d13&amp;itok=eJ7RsQoD" width="540" height="360" alt="A small vessel shaped like a submarine floats in calm ocean waters, with a large suspension bridge in and sailboats in the background." loading="lazy" typeof="foaf:Image" /> <span class="dam_caption">The Exail DriX, an uncrewed surface vehicle, in Narragansett Bay. Credit: NOAA/Michael Jech </span> </div> </div> </div> <div class="news-card__content"> <div class="news-card__eyebrow">Feature Story</div> <h3 class="news-card__title"> <a href="/feature-story/uncrewed-vehicles-hold-promise-ocean-data-collection-difficult-reach-areas" class="header-link news-card__title-link"> <span>Uncrewed Vehicles Hold Promise for Ocean Data Collection in Difficult-to-Reach Areas</span> </a> </h3> <div class="news-card__region"> <div class="regions "> <div class="regions__vocab"> <span class="mid-atlantic"> <a class="link link--region link--region-mid-atlantic" href="/region/mid-atlantic">New England/Mid-Atlantic</a> </span> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="horizontal-list__item"> <div class="news-card"> <div class="news-card__image"> <div class="aspect-ratio--three-by-two"> <div class="aspect-ratio__content"> <img class="dam-image img-responsive" src="/s3//styles/inline_field_thumbnail/s3/dam-migration/sperm-whales-nefsc.jpg?h=1c9b88c9&amp;itok=gMJBtxk5" width="540" height="360" alt="Aerial view of six sperm whales grouped together in dark blue waters." loading="lazy" typeof="foaf:Image" /> <span class="dam_caption">Sperm whales. Credit: NOAA Fisheries</span> </div> </div> </div> <div class="news-card__content"> <div class="news-card__eyebrow">Feature Story</div> <h3 class="news-card__title"> <a href="/feature-story/passive-acoustic-monitoring-reveals-more-about-sperm-whales-southeast-new-england" class="header-link news-card__title-link"> <span>Passive Acoustic Monitoring Reveals More About Sperm Whales off Southeast New England </span> </a> </h3> <div class="news-card__region"> <div class="regions "> <div class="regions__vocab"> <span class="mid-atlantic"> <a class="link link--region link--region-mid-atlantic" href="/region/mid-atlantic">New England/Mid-Atlantic</a> </span> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="horizontal-list__footer horizontal-list__footer--center"> <a href="/news-and-announcements/news?title=&field_topics_vocab_target_id%5B1000357851%5D=1000357851" class="button button--primary">View More News</a> </div> <div class="horizontal-list__footer horizontal-list__footer--center"> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="subnav-tab__sidebar col-md-12 col-lg-4"> <div class="info-links"> <h2 class="info-links__title">More Information </h2> <ul class="list--arrow info-links__links"> <li class="info-links__links-item"> <a class="link" href="/feature-story/noaa-and-boem-sign-new-interagency-agreement-wind-energy-development">NOAA-BOEM Interagency Memorandum</a> </li> <li class="info-links__links-item"> <a class="link" href="https://www.fisheries.noaa.gov/feature-story/efforts-mitigate-impacts-offshore-wind-energy-development-noaa-fisheries-surveys">Federal Survey Mitigation Strategy </a> </li> <li class="info-links__links-item"> <a class="link" href="https://www.noaa.gov/offshore-wind-energy">NOAA and Offshore Wind Energy</a> </li> <li class="info-links__links-item"> <a class="link" href="/new-england-mid-atlantic/science-data/offshore-wind-energy-development-new-england-mid-atlantic-waters">Offshore Wind Energy in New England/Mid-Atlantic Waters</a> </li> <li class="info-links__links-item"> <a class="link" href="/resource/document/west-coast-offshore-wind-energy-strategic-science-plan">West Coast Offshore Wind Energy Strategic Science Plan</a> </li> <li class="info-links__links-item"> <a class="link" href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Jx9uZ6dinpE">BOEM Video: Where Can Offshore Wind Turbines Go?</a> </li> </ul> </div> </div> </div> <div class="row sub-nav__footer-content"> <div class="col-md-12 col-lg-12"> <hr> <div class="horizontal-list__container"> <div class="horizontal-list--4-column"> <div class="horizontal-list__item"> <div class="views-element-container"> <style> .alert { display: none; } </style> <div class="vertical-list"> <h2 class="vertical-list__header vertical-list__header--small">Notices & Rules</h2> <div class="vertical-list__item"> <div class="label">Protected Resources</div> <div class="teaser teaser--small protected"> <div class="teaser__content--noimage teaser__content--small" style="width:100%"> <h4 class="teaser__title teaser__title--small"><a class="teaser__title-link" href="/action/incidental-take-authorization-vineyard-northeast-llcs-construction-vineyard-northeast"> <span>Incidental Take Authorization: Vineyard Northeast, LLC's Construction of the Vineyard Northeast Offshore Wind Project</span> </a></h4> <div class="teaser__meta teaser__meta--hide">  <div class="regions teaser__meta-link-group"> <div class="regions__vocab"> <span class="mid-atlantic"> <a class="link link--region link--region-mid-atlantic" href="/region/mid-atlantic">New England/Mid-Atlantic</a> </span> </div> </div> </div> <div class="teaser__meta teaser__meta--small"> <div class="regions teaser__meta-link-group"> <div class="regions__vocab"> <span class="mid-atlantic"> <a class="link link--region link--region-mid-atlantic" href="/region/mid-atlantic">New England/Mid-Atlantic</a> </span> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="vertical-list__item"> <div class="label">Protected Resources</div> <div class="teaser teaser--small protected"> <div class="teaser__content--noimage teaser__content--small" style="width:100%"> <h4 class="teaser__title teaser__title--small"><a class="teaser__title-link" href="/action/incidental-take-authorization-bay-state-wind-llc-marine-site-characterization-surveys-rhode"> <span>Incidental Take Authorization: Bay State Wind, LLC Marine Site Characterization Surveys off Rhode Island and Massachusetts</span> </a></h4> <div class="teaser__meta teaser__meta--hide">  <div class="regions teaser__meta-link-group"> <div class="regions__vocab"> <span class="mid-atlantic"> <a class="link link--region link--region-mid-atlantic" href="/region/mid-atlantic">New England/Mid-Atlantic</a> </span> </div> </div> </div> <div class="teaser__meta teaser__meta--small"> <div class="regions teaser__meta-link-group"> <div class="regions__vocab"> <span class="mid-atlantic"> <a class="link link--region link--region-mid-atlantic" href="/region/mid-atlantic">New England/Mid-Atlantic</a> </span> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="vertical-list__item"> <div class="label">Protected Resources</div> <div class="teaser teaser--small protected"> <div class="teaser__content--noimage teaser__content--small" style="width:100%"> <h4 class="teaser__title teaser__title--small"><a class="teaser__title-link" href="/action/incidental-take-authorization-orsted-wind-power-north-america-llcs-site-characterization"> <span>Incidental Take Authorization: Orsted Wind Power North America, LLC's Site Characterization Surveys off Delaware</span> </a></h4> <div class="teaser__meta teaser__meta--hide">  <div class="regions teaser__meta-link-group"> <div class="regions__vocab"> <span class="mid-atlantic"> <a class="link link--region link--region-mid-atlantic" href="/region/mid-atlantic">New England/Mid-Atlantic</a> </span> </div> </div> </div> <div class="teaser__meta teaser__meta--small"> <div class="regions teaser__meta-link-group"> <div class="regions__vocab"> <span class="mid-atlantic"> <a class="link link--region link--region-mid-atlantic" href="/region/mid-atlantic">New England/Mid-Atlantic</a> </span> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="vertical-list__item"> <div class="label">Protected Resources</div> <div class="teaser teaser--small protected"> <div class="teaser__content--noimage teaser__content--small" style="width:100%"> <h4 class="teaser__title teaser__title--small"><a class="teaser__title-link" href="/action/incidental-take-authorization-atlantic-shores-offshore-wind-llcs-marine-site"> <span>Incidental Take Authorization: Atlantic Shores Offshore Wind, LLC's marine site characterization surveys off of New York, New Jersey, Delaware, and Maryland</span> </a></h4> <div class="teaser__meta teaser__meta--hide">  <div class="regions teaser__meta-link-group"> <div class="regions__vocab"> <span class="mid-atlantic"> <a class="link link--region link--region-mid-atlantic" href="/region/mid-atlantic">New England/Mid-Atlantic</a> </span> </div> </div> </div> <div class="teaser__meta teaser__meta--small"> <div class="regions teaser__meta-link-group"> <div class="regions__vocab"> <span class="mid-atlantic"> <a class="link link--region link--region-mid-atlantic" href="/region/mid-atlantic">New England/Mid-Atlantic</a> </span> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="vertical-list__item"> <div class="label">Protected Resources</div> <div class="teaser teaser--small protected"> <div class="teaser__content--noimage teaser__content--small" style="width:100%"> <h4 class="teaser__title teaser__title--small"><a class="teaser__title-link" href="/action/incidental-take-authorization-atlantic-shores-offshore-wind-bight-llcs-marine-site"> <span>Incidental Take Authorization: Atlantic Shores Offshore Wind Bight, LLC's Marine Site Characterization Surveys off New Jersey and New York</span> </a></h4> <div class="teaser__meta teaser__meta--hide">  <div class="regions teaser__meta-link-group"> <div class="regions__vocab"> <span class="mid-atlantic"> <a class="link link--region link--region-mid-atlantic" href="/region/mid-atlantic">New England/Mid-Atlantic</a> </span> </div> </div> </div> <div class="teaser__meta teaser__meta--small"> <div class="regions teaser__meta-link-group"> <div class="regions__vocab"> <span class="mid-atlantic"> <a class="link link--region link--region-mid-atlantic" href="/region/mid-atlantic">New England/Mid-Atlantic</a> </span> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="vertical-list__footer vertical-list__footer--small"> <a href="/protected-resource-regulations?title=&field_topics_vocab_target_id[1000357851]=1000357851&field_species_vocab_target_id=&sort_by=field_relevant_date_value" class="link link--cta vertical-list__footer-link">More Protected Resources Regs & Actions</a> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="horizontal-list__item"> <div class="views-element-container"> <div class="no-result"> <h2 class="no-result__title no-result__title--small">Bulletins</h2> <p class="caption">There are currently no upcoming fishery bulletins.</p> <div class="no-result__footer no-result__footer--small"> <a href="/rules-and-announcements/bulletins" class="link link--cta">More Bulletins</a> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="horizontal-list__item"> <div class="views-element-container"> <div class="no-result"> <h2 class="no-result__title no-result__title--small">Upcoming Events</h2> <p class="caption">There are currently no upcoming events.</p> <div class="no-result__footer no-result__footer--small"> <a href="/events" class="link link--cta">More Events</a> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="horizontal-list__item"> <div class="views-element-container"> <div class="no-result"> <h2 class="no-result__title no-result__title--small">Open Funding Opportunities</h2> <p class="caption">There are currently no open funding opportunities.</p> <div class="no-result__footer no-result__footer--small"> <a href="/funding-opportunities/open-opportunities" class="link link--cta">More Opportunities</a> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="horizontal-list__footer"> </div> </div> <hr> <div class="views-element-container"> <div class="horizontal-list-featured"> <h2 class="horizontal-list-featured__title">Multimedia</h2> <div class="row"> <div class="col-md-3 col-sm-6 col-xs-12"> <a href="https://videos.fisheries.noaa.gov/"> <div class="horizontal-list-featured__image"> <div class="aspect-ratio--three-by-two"> <div class="aspect-ratio__content"> <img src="/themes/custom/noaa_components/images/seals_of_approval.jpg" alt="NOAA Fisheries Video Gallery Default Thumbnail Image"> </div> </div> <span class="horizontal-list-featured__image-icon fa fa-play"></span> </div> </a> <h3 class="horizontal-list-featured__subtitle"><a href="https://videos.fisheries.noaa.gov/">NOAA Fisheries Video Gallery</a></h3> </div> <div class="col-md-3 col-sm-6 col-xs-12"> <div class="news-card"> <div class="news-card__image"> <div class="aspect-ratio--three-by-two"> <div class="aspect-ratio__content"> <img class="dam-image img-responsive" src="/s3//styles/inline_field_thumbnail/s3/2023-06/2500x1667-wind-turbines-small-ship-rhode-island-nefsc.jpg?h=41f55a5b&amp;itok=POZ0flwm" width="540" height="360" alt="Overcast day with mostly gray and silver tones. In the background at left, a line of 8 offshore windmills tower over the horizon. In the foreground, a small boat open-decked boat with a flat roof is silhouetted against a shining sea" loading="lazy" typeof="foaf:Image" /> <span class="dam_caption">A small fishing vessel near wind turbines. Credit: Bob Brewer on Unsplash</span> </div> </div> </div> <div class="news-card__content"> <div class="news-card__eyebrow">Podcast</div> <h3 class="news-card__title"> <a href="/podcast/studying-sound-ocean-prepare-offshore-wind-development" class="header-link news-card__title-link"> <span>Studying Sound in the Ocean to Prepare for Offshore Wind Development</span> </a> </h3> <div class="news-card__region"> <div class="regions "> <div class="regions__vocab"> <span class="mid-atlantic"> <a class="link link--region link--region-mid-atlantic" href="/region/mid-atlantic">New England/Mid-Atlantic</a> </span> </div> <div class="regions__vocab"> <span class="national"> <a class="link link--region link--region-national" href="/about-us">National</a> </span> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="col-md-3 col-sm-6 col-xs-12"> <div class="news-card"> <div class="news-card__image"> <div class="aspect-ratio--three-by-two"> <div class="aspect-ratio__content"> <img class="dam-image img-responsive" src="/s3//styles/inline_field_thumbnail/s3/2021-11/1600x1200-train-and-bourne-bridge_K.Depot-nefsc.jpg?h=08b866d1&amp;itok=NwScdXXe" width="540" height="360" alt=" Color image taken during daylight from the upper deck of a research vessel, facing toward the rear of the vessel as it sails through a canal. Land is visible on each side of the canal, and the ship leaves a wake in the water. Two steel framed bridges are in the image. The ship has just passed under the bridge used by vehicles. The railroad bridge is in the distance. " loading="lazy" typeof="foaf:Image" /> <span class="dam_caption">View over the stern of the NOAA Ship Henry B. Bigelow, exiting the Cape Cod Canal headed east toward Provincetown, Mass. at the beginning of Leg 3 of the 2021 Northeast Fisheries Science Center fall bottom trawl survey. The two bridges spanning the canal are used by trains (background) and vehicle traffic (foreground). Credit: NOAA Fisheries/Katelyn Depot. </span> </div> </div> </div> <div class="news-card__content"> <div class="news-card__eyebrow">Podcast</div> <h3 class="news-card__title"> <a href="/podcast/evolving-science-and-surveys-birthplace-noaa-fisheries" class="header-link news-card__title-link"> <span>Evolving Science and Surveys in the Birthplace of NOAA Fisheries </span> </a> </h3> <div class="news-card__region"> <div class="regions "> <div class="regions__vocab"> <span class="mid-atlantic"> <a class="link link--region link--region-mid-atlantic" href="/region/mid-atlantic">New England/Mid-Atlantic</a> </span> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="subnav-tab__content" id=assessing-impacts-to-marine-life> <div class="row"> <div class="subnav-tab__main col-md-12 col-lg-8"> <h2 class="subnav-tab__title">Assessing Impacts to Marine Life</h2> <div class="subnav-tab__main-content"> <div class="wyswyg-edit field field--name-field-t1-content field--type-text-long field--label-hidden field--item"><p><span>NOAA Fisheries’ ongoing work is helping inform the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management’s responsible development of offshore wind energy—avoiding and minimizing impacts to protected resources, their habitats, and managed fisheries. </span></p><h3><span>Regulatory Requirements for Responsible Development</span></h3><p><span>Several regulatory processes that help reduce offshore wind energy’s potential impacts to protected marine resources govern our work.</span></p><h4><span>Conducting Consultations</span></h4><p dir="ltr"><span>Through the </span><a href="https://www.fisheries.noaa.gov/insight/understanding-consultations-federal-agencies"><span>consultation process</span></a><span>, we work with BOEM and other federal agencies to support the compliance of offshore wind activities with the </span><a href="https://www.fisheries.noaa.gov/topic/laws-policies/endangered-species-act"><span>Endangered Species Act</span></a><span>, </span><a href="https://www.fisheries.noaa.gov/topic/laws-policies/magnuson-stevens-act"><span>Magnuson-Stevens Act</span></a><span>, and </span><a href="https://www.fisheries.noaa.gov/topic/laws-policies/more-laws"><span>Fish and Wildlife Coordination Act</span></a><span>. This process occurs before construction can begin and can be adapted as each project is developed. </span></p><p><span>For example, after completing the Endangered Species Act formal consultation process with BOEM on an offshore wind project, we issue a </span><a href="https://www.fisheries.noaa.gov/national/endangered-species-conservation/endangered-species-act-section-7-consultations"><span>Biological Opinion</span></a><span> detailing how federal agencies’ actions may affect </span><a href="https://www.fisheries.noaa.gov/species-directory/threatened-endangered"><span>Endangered Species Act-listed species</span></a><span> and </span><a href="https://www.fisheries.noaa.gov/national/endangered-species-conservation/critical-habitat"><span>critical habitat</span></a><span>. We work with the action agency to propose measures to avoid and minimize harmful impacts and improve conservation. </span></p><h4><span>Assessing Impacts to Marine Mammals Under the Marine Mammal Protection Act</span></h4><p dir="ltr"><span>Under the Marine Mammal Protection Act, NOAA Fisheries can </span><a href="https://www.fisheries.noaa.gov/permit/incidental-take-authorizations-under-marine-mammal-protection-act"><span>authorize the take of marine mammals incidental to otherwise lawful activities</span></a><span>, including offshore wind activities. We are required to carefully review and use the best available scientific information in satisfying the requirements of the Act. We publicly announce each proposed incidental take authorization and seek input from the public during the comment period. </span></p><p dir="ltr"><span>We do not anticipate and have not authorized—or proposed to authorize—death or serious injury of whales for any wind-related action. The majority of take authorized for offshore wind activities has been by </span><a href="https://www.fisheries.noaa.gov/marine-life-distress/frequent-questions-feeding-or-harassing-marine-mammals-wild#how-does-the-mmpa-define-harassment"><span>Level B harassment</span></a><span>, which is a disruption of behavioral patterns or a temporary reduction in hearing sensitivity. These impacts are expected to be relatively short in duration. </span></p><p><span>NOAA Fisheries must include mandatory mitigation measures that affect the least practicable adverse impact on affected marine mammals in all issued incidental take authorizations. Offshore wind developers undertake these measures to minimize impacts on marine mammals and their habitat. For example, mitigation measures may require: </span></p><ul><li dir="ltr"><span>Avoiding foundation installation during times when North Atlantic right whales are most likely to be using the area </span></li><li dir="ltr"><span>Using sound attenuation technology such as double bubble curtains to reduce noise levels from foundation installation</span></li><li dir="ltr"><span>Conducting sound field verification to understand noise levels produced during wind farm construction and operation</span></li><li dir="ltr"><span>Delaying or shutting down noise sources if marine mammals are within certain distances</span></li><li dir="ltr"><span>Implementing vessel speed and approach restrictions to decrease risk of marine mammal interactions with offshore wind vessels </span></li><li dir="ltr"><span>Requiring the use of protected species observers and acoustic monitoring during certain activities such as pile driving </span></li></ul><p><span>Incidental take authorizations also include mandatory monitoring and reporting measures. These measures support mitigation implementation and increase understanding of the impacts of offshore wind energy development on marine mammals and their habitat. We analyze data gathered during offshore wind project development to help agencies and developers identify and address gaps in our understanding of the impacts of offshore wind activities and ensure compliance with regulatory requirements. </span></p><p><a class="alt-link--more" href="https://www.fisheries.noaa.gov/national/marine-mammal-protection/incidental-take-authorizations-other-energy-activities-renewable"><em>View a list of incidental harassment authorizations for offshore wind activities</em></a></p><p><a class="alt-link--more" href="https://www.fisheries.noaa.gov/new-england-mid-atlantic/marine-life-distress/frequent-questions-offshore-wind-and-whales"><em>Learn more about frequently asked questions about offshore wind and marine mammals</em></a></p><h4><span>Working with BOEM on National Environmental Policy Act Requirements</span></h4><p><span>We also coordinate with BOEM and other agencies to consider the environmental impacts of each proposed offshore wind project. The </span><a href="https://www.fisheries.noaa.gov/topic/laws-policies#national-environmental-policy-act"><span>National Environmental Policy Act</span></a><span> requires federal agencies to integrate environmental values into their decision-making processes by considering the environmental impacts of their major proposed actions. Under NEPA, we serve as a </span><a href="https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-40/chapter-V/subchapter-A/part-1501/section-1501.8"><span>cooperating agency</span></a><span> to:</span></p><ul><li dir="ltr"><span>Evaluate the impacts of wind development activities on coastal and marine resources, including protected species and marine habitats</span></li><li dir="ltr"><span>Identify mitigation measures—such as noise reduction devices—and analyze how they would reduce the negative impacts of development </span></li><li dir="ltr"><span>Provide information and data about resources of concern that may be impacted by the projects</span></li></ul><p><a class="alt-link--more" href="https://www.boem.gov/renewable-energy/nepa-and-office-renewable-energy-programs"><em>Learn more about each project’s review under NEPA</em></a></p><h3><span>Advancing Marine Species Research and Monitoring Through Collaboration</span></h3><p dir="ltr"><span>With our partners, NOAA Fisheries conducts research to further our understanding of how offshore wind energy impacts marine species and their habitats. These research efforts can help inform responsible offshore wind site selection, construction, and operations.</span></p><p dir="ltr"><span>We work to understand how wind projects may affect endangered and threatened species that live in or migrate through offshore wind areas. We investigate how these species </span><a href="https://www.fisheries.noaa.gov/feature-story/right-whale-use-southern-new-england-wind-energy-areas-increasing"><span>use habitats in proposed wind energy areas</span></a><span> and how offshore wind development could impact their populations. We also maintain </span><a href="https://www.fisheries.noaa.gov/new-england-mid-atlantic/science-data/passive-acoustic-technologies"><span>passive acoustic recording arrays</span></a><span>—in collaboration with BOEM, states, regional coordinating bodies, and wind energy companies—to better understand offshore wind energy development’s impacts on marine mammals.</span></p><p dir="ltr"><span>We worked with the </span><a href="https://www.rosascience.org/"><span>Responsible Offshore Science Alliance</span></a><span>, researchers, wind developers, and state and federal agencies to develop a </span><a href="https://e9f0eb5f-7fec-4e41-9395-960128956e6f.filesusr.com/ugd/99421e_b8932042e6e140ee84c5f8531c2530ab.pdf"><span>framework and guidelines for offshore wind project monitoring</span></a><span>. These can help offshore wind developers characterize, evaluate, and monitor the impacts of proposed projects on marine life and fishing operations. The guidelines will also help ensure that the data collected through project-specific monitoring efforts can be integrated into regional scientific surveys.</span></p><p><span>We are actively engaged in the </span><a href="https://rwsc.org/"><span>Regional Wildlife Science Collaborative for Offshore Wind</span></a><span>. This multi-sector group published a </span><a href="https://rwsc.org/science-plan/"><span>science plan</span></a><span> to inform ongoing data collection and research in U.S. Atlantic waters. It focuses on developing regional research and monitoring priorities and data standards, and aligning funding for these efforts.</span></p><p><a class="alt-link--more" href="https://rwsc.org/announcing-rwsc-technology-workshop-series/"><em>Learn more about the Regional Wildlife Science Collaborative for Offshore Wind technology workshop series</em></a></p><p><span>NOAA Fisheries and BOEM have developed a </span><a href="https://www.fisheries.noaa.gov/resource/peer-reviewed-research/noaa-and-boem-minimum-recommendations-use-passive-acoustic"><span>passive acoustic monitoring framework</span></a><span>. It outlines minimum procedures, system requirements, and other components for effectively designing and implementing passive acoustic monitoring. This will help wind developers reduce the impact of offshore wind energy projects on marine species. The national framework covers offshore wind development before, during, and after project construction.</span></p><p><a class="alt-link--more" href="https://www.fisheries.noaa.gov/new-england-mid-atlantic/offshore-wind-energy/noaa-recommendations-use-passive-acoustic-listening-systems"><em>Learn more about the recommendations from NOAA and BOEM for the use of passive acoustic listening systems</em></a></p><h3><span>Protecting North Atlantic Right Whales from Potential Impacts</span><strong> </strong></h3><p><span>There are only approximately 370 </span><a href="https://www.fisheries.noaa.gov/species/north-atlantic-right-whale"><span>North Atlantic right whales</span></a><span> remaining, including about 70 reproductively active females. As this endangered species’ distribution overlaps with areas of offshore wind energy development, we worked with BOEM to establish a joint </span><a href="https://www.fisheries.noaa.gov/media-release/noaa-boem-announce-final-north-atlantic-right-whale-and-offshore-wind-strategy"><span>North Atlantic Right Whale and Offshore Wind Strategy</span></a><span>. The strategy provides guidance for a coordinated effort across the federal government and with our partners to conserve and promote the recovery of this species while responsibly developing offshore wind energy.</span></p><h3><span>Potential Ecological Impacts of Offshore Wind</span></h3><p><span>As offshore wind develops, scientists will continue to learn about the ecological and other impacts of offshore wind energy. Site assessment, construction, operations, and decommissioning for offshore wind projects could interact with the marine environment and life on the seabed, in the water, and at the surface. For example, offshore wind energy projects may:</span></p><ul><li dir="ltr"><span>Change the </span><a href="https://www.fisheries.noaa.gov/national/science-data/ocean-noise"><span>soundscape</span></a><span>, which could adversely impact fish, marine mammals, and other species</span></li><li dir="ltr"><span>Introduce electromagnetic fields that could impact fish navigation, predator detection, communication, and the ability for marine life to find mates</span></li><li dir="ltr"><span>Alter local or regional hydrodynamics, which could change local and regional-scale ecosystems </span></li><li dir="ltr"><span>Create a “reef effect” where marine life cluster around the hard surfaces of wind turbines and associated structures</span></li><li dir="ltr"><span>Increase vessel traffic, which could lead to more </span><a href="https://www.fisheries.noaa.gov/insight/understanding-vessel-strikes"><span>vessel strikes</span></a></li><li dir="ltr"><span>Corrosion protection systems could release contaminants that could be consumed or absorbed by marine life</span></li></ul><p><span>These impacts have the potential to affect organism life cycle stages—including larval dispersal and spawning—and species’ composition, abundance, distribution, behavior, and survival rates.</span></p></div> <div class="tab-meta-data hidden"> <div class="meta-page-heading"></div> <div id="Assessing Impacts to Marine Life-title" class="meta-title">Assessing the Impacts of Offshore Wind Energy on Marine Life</div> <div id="Assessing Impacts to Marine Life-gt" class="meta-decs">NOAA Fisheries ensures the deployment of U.S. offshore wind energy avoids and minimizes risks and negative impacts to marine life, protected resources, habitats, and managed fisheries.</div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="subnav-tab__sidebar col-md-12 col-lg-4"> <div class="info-links"> <h2 class="info-links__title">More Information </h2> <ul class="list--arrow info-links__links"> <li class="info-links__links-item"> <a class="link" href="/topic/consultations#endangered-species-act-consultations">Endangered Species Act Consultations</a> </li> <li class="info-links__links-item"> <a class="link" href="/national/habitat-conservation/consultations-essential-fish-habitat">Consultations for Essential Fish Habitat</a> </li> <li class="info-links__links-item"> <a class="link" href="/national/marine-mammal-protection/incidental-take-authorizations-other-energy-activities-renewable">Incidental Take Authorizations for Renewable Energy and LNG Activities</a> </li> <li class="info-links__links-item"> <a class="link" href="/new-england-mid-atlantic/marine-life-distress/frequent-questions-offshore-wind-and-whales">Frequent Questions—Offshore Wind and Whales</a> </li> <li class="info-links__links-item"> <a class="link" href="/feature-story/north-atlantic-right-whale-and-offshore-wind-strategy-open-public-comment-until">North Atlantic Right Whale and Offshore Wind Strategy</a> </li> </ul> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="subnav-tab__content" id=evaluating-impacts-to-fisheries> <div class="row"> <div class="subnav-tab__main col-md-12 col-lg-8"> <h2 class="subnav-tab__title">Evaluating Impacts to Fisheries</h2> <div class="subnav-tab__main-content"> <div class="wyswyg-edit field field--name-field-t2-content field--type-text-long field--label-hidden field--item"><p dir="ltr"><span>Through our science, research, and monitoring, NOAA Fisheries is helping advance the understanding of offshore wind energy development’s potential impacts on fisheries and fishing communities. We’re working closely with </span><a href="https://www.fisheries.noaa.gov/topic/partners"><span>our partners</span></a><span> as stewards of the nation’s ocean resources, their habitats, and the communities that rely on them.</span></p><h3><span>Our Science Supports Informed Decision Making</span></h3><p dir="ltr"><span>NOAA Fisheries conducts research to help fill gaps in our understanding of how offshore wind energy impacts managed fish species and their habitats. These research efforts can help inform responsible offshore wind site selection, construction, and operations. </span></p><p dir="ltr"><span>We provide data and information to the </span><a href="https://www.boem.gov/"><span>Bureau of Ocean Energy Management</span></a><span> on historic fishing operations and coastal communities' reliance on fishing operations. We also provide information on the potential socioeconomic impacts of offshore wind projects on the commercial and for-hire fishing industries. </span></p><p dir="ltr"><span>We have developed or provided data to several resources supporting responsible offshore wind energy development:</span></p><ul class="list--arrow"><li dir="ltr"><a href="https://www.greateratlantic.fisheries.noaa.gov/ro/fso/reports/WIND/ALL_WEA_BY_AREA_DATA.html"><span>Online data query tools</span></a></li><li dir="ltr"><a href="https://www.fisheries.noaa.gov/resource/data/socioeconomic-impacts-atlantic-offshore-wind-development"><span>Reports on the socioeconomic impacts of offshore wind development</span></a></li><li dir="ltr"><a href="https://www.fisheries.noaa.gov/resource/map/fishing-footprints-northeast"><span>Maps of where commercial fishing activity has occurred</span></a></li><li dir="ltr"><a href="https://coastalscience.noaa.gov/science-areas/offshore-wind-energy/spatial-planning/"><span>NOAA's National Centers for Coastal Ocean Science (NCCOS) to inform marine spatial planning</span></a></li></ul><p dir="ltr"><span>We also provide data to regional data portals summarizing fishery operations data:</span></p><ul class="list--arrow"><li dir="ltr"><a href="https://portal.midatlanticocean.org/"><span>Mid-Atlantic Ocean Data Portal</span></a></li><li dir="ltr"><a href="https://www.northeastoceandata.org/"><span>Northeast Ocean Data Portal</span></a></li><li dir="ltr"><a href="https://coast.noaa.gov/digitalcoast/tools/ort.html"><span>Ocean Reports</span></a></li><li dir="ltr"><a href="https://hub.marinecadastre.gov/"><span>NOAA-BOEM Marine Cadastre</span></a></li></ul><p dir="ltr"><span>We worked with the </span><a href="https://rodafisheries.org/"><span>Responsible Offshore Development Alliance</span></a><span> and other partners on a </span><a href="https://www.fisheries.noaa.gov/feature-story/new-report-paves-way-northeast-fisheries-and-offshore-wind-science-agenda"><span>peer-reviewed report</span></a><span> to improve understanding of existing science and data needs related to offshore wind energy interactions with fish and fisheries. This collaboration informed NOAA Fisheries’ and BOEM’s joint </span><a href="https://www.fisheries.noaa.gov/feature-story/efforts-mitigate-impacts-offshore-wind-energy-development-noaa-fisheries-surveys"><span>survey mitigation strategy</span></a><span> and helped define new monitoring and research needs.</span></p><p dir="ltr"><span>We are also working with the Alliance on questions specific to </span><a href="https://rodafisheries.org/noaa-fisheries-grant-science-symposium/"><span>new floating offshore wind energy technology’s interactions with fisheries</span></a><span>. More broadly, the project will help local and regional fishing interests become better involved in the offshore wind development process, and ensure the interests and concerns of fishermen are communicated effectively.</span></p><p dir="ltr"><span>We participate in BOEM-led regional renewable energy task forces, which convene state and federal agencies, tribes, ocean users, and industry representatives. Members discuss and analyze potentially competing ocean uses and values. The task forces are also intended to facilitate coordination and information sharing among these groups regarding the offshore renewable energy leasing process.</span></p><h3><span>Evaluating Socioeconomic Impacts Through the National Environmental Policy Act</span><strong> </strong></h3><p dir="ltr"><span>We coordinate with BOEM and other agencies to consider socioeconomic impacts of each proposed offshore wind project following the </span><a href="https://www.fisheries.noaa.gov/topic/laws-policies#national-environmental-policy-act"><span>National Environmental Policy Act’s</span></a><span> mandates. Under NEPA, we:</span></p><ul><li dir="ltr"><span>Evaluate the impacts of wind development activities on socioeconomics and fishing communities </span></li><li dir="ltr"><span>Provide scientific data and expertise on commercial and recreational fisheries to analyze potential impacts to fishing communities</span></li><li dir="ltr"><span>Identify mitigation measures—such as fisheries compensation funds—and analyze how they would reduce the negative impacts of development </span></li><li dir="ltr"><span>Provide information and data about resources and fisheries of concern that may be impacted by the projects</span></li></ul><p dir="ltr"><a class="alt-link--more" href="https://www.boem.gov/renewable-energy/nepa-and-office-renewable-energy-programs"><em>Learn more about each project’s review under NEPA </em></a></p><h3><span>Potential Fishery Impacts of Offshore Wind</span></h3><p dir="ltr"><span>NOAA Fisheries is committed to helping improve the compatibility of offshore wind energy with fishing, aquaculture, and other ocean uses. The construction and operation of wind turbines could impact commercial, recreational, and tribal fishing in a variety of ways, including:</span></p><ul><li dir="ltr"><span>Displacing fishermen from traditional fishing areas</span></li><li dir="ltr"><span>Changing the distribution, abundance, and species composition of fish in an area from impacts to essential fish habitat</span></li><li dir="ltr"><span>Causing economic losses</span></li><li dir="ltr"><span>Increasing vessel traffic and competition for support services on shore</span></li><li dir="ltr"><span>Increasing and consolidating vessel traffic offshore </span></li><li dir="ltr"><span>Increasing operational costs </span></li><li dir="ltr"><span>Disrupting vessel radar systems</span></li><li dir="ltr"><span>Damaging or destroying fishing gear</span></li><li dir="ltr"><span>Reducing safety at sea from increased vessel traffic and navigation challenges</span></li></ul><p><span>In particular, those using trawl, dredge, and other mobile fishing gear may have to significantly change their fishing behaviors to avoid interacting with turbines and underwater cables. This could include up to complete displacement from traditional fishing grounds. Longline, gillnet, and fixed gear fisheries could also be displaced by offshore wind projects or affected by resultant ecosystem and operational impacts identified above.</span></p><p dir="ltr"><span>NOAA Fisheries will continue to work across the federal government and with partners to avoid, minimize and mitigate impacts from offshore wind to ecosystems, communities, and protected species.</span></p></div> <div class="tab-meta-data hidden"> <div class="meta-page-heading"></div> <div id="Evaluating Impacts to Fisheries-title" class="meta-title">Offshore Wind Energy Impacts on Fishing Communities</div> <div id="Evaluating Impacts to Fisheries-gt" class="meta-decs">NOAA Fisheries researches and prepares for the possible impacts of offshore wind energy technology to commercial, recreational, and tribal fishing communities.</div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="subnav-tab__sidebar col-md-12 col-lg-4"> <div class="info-links"> <h2 class="info-links__title">More Information </h2> <ul class="list--arrow info-links__links"> <li class="info-links__links-item"> <a class="link" href="/topic/population-assessments">Population Assessments</a> </li> <li class="info-links__links-item"> <a class="link" href="/topic/socioeconomics">Fishery Socioeconomics</a> </li> <li class="info-links__links-item"> <a class="link" href="https://www.boem.gov/renewable-energy/state-activities/fishing-and-offshore-renewable-energy">BOEM: Fishing and Offshore Renewable Energy</a> </li> <li class="info-links__links-item"> <a class="link" href="http://www.mafmc.org/northeast-offshore-wind">Northeast Fisheries Management and Offshore Wind</a> </li> <li class="info-links__links-item"> <a class="link" href="https://www.ices.dk/community/groups/Pages/WGOWDF.aspx">Working Group on Offshore Wind Development and Fisheries</a> </li> </ul> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </main> <footer role="contentinfo"> <div class="region region-footer"> <nav 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