The Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM) is seeking public comments as it considers potential effects of offshore wind energy leasing activities on historic properties in the mid-Atlantic region.
In accordance with the requirements of Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act, BOEM is consulting with interested parties and members of the public who share concerns about historic properties that might be affected by proposed commercial leasing on the Outer Continental Shelf (OCS) offshore New Jersey, Delaware, Maryland and Virginia.
“We are working to make offshore wind energy projects in the mid-Atlantic a reality. In doing so, we also are taking care to ensure that our nation’s historical and cultural resources are protected,” said BOEM Director Tommy P. Beaudreau. “It is important to collect information and hear concerns early in the planning process, and so we encourage stakeholders to provide us with information necessary to ensure that offshore wind development is done the right way, in the right places.”
BOEM is conducting the review as part of its “Smart from the Start” initiative to facilitate efficient and environmentally-responsible development of renewable energy resources on the OCS. The bureau will evaluate the potential impacts of issuing renewable energy leases and conducting site assessment activities, such as the installation and operation of meteorological towers and buoys. Any leases that may be issued will not authorize construction or operations of commercial wind energy projects; specific proposed projects will undergo appropriate environmental review and analysis with additional opportunities for public comment.
[mappress]
Source: boem, October 21, 2011