BRIEF OVERVIEW: In 2022, the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM) awarded two lease areas 20-30 miles west of Humboldt Bay to offshore wind developers. BOEM’s environmental review process for offshore wind development is separated into two analyses. First is environmental impact assessment of the impacts of the studies that need to be done, such as the use of buoys, radar, and sonar. Next, after studies of the lease areas are complete, Environmental Impact Statements will analyze impacts from construction and operation of the wind turbines. These processes will be done separately for the two lease areas.Also in 2022, the California Coastal Commission reviewed plans for studying marine life in the proposed Humboldt Wind Energy Area, 21 miles west of Humboldt Bay. We submitted these comments and these comments. The plans for studies were approved with seven conditions, including a vessel speed limit of 10 knots (11.5 mph) to decrease the likelihood of collisions with whales and other marine mammals.In 2023, the Humboldt Bay Harbor, Recreation, and Conservation District issued a Notice of Preparation for the proposed Heavy Lift Terminal in Samoa. We submitted these comments on the potential impacts that must be addressed in the Draft EIR, which is being developed. For more info, check out the website we developed with colleagues at EPIC and CORE Hub: FAQs on Offshore Wind Energy.LATEST NEWS on Offshore Wind Energy:
Mike McGuire: Local infrastructure needs upgrades to support wind energy
Responsible Offshore Wind Development Starts at the Port
Humboldt's proposed offshore wind project would significantly reduce carbon emissions throughout California. But to ensure the success of offshore wind and to meet the promise of climate action, decision-makers must commit to a green port facility capable of building and servicing the turbines while not further contributing to greenhouse gas emissions or polluting Humboldt Bay.UPDATE: The Harbor District adopted a resolution to develop a "Green Terminal Strategy" by March 2025. California’s Aging Electrical Infrastructure Presents Hurdle for Offshore Wind Development on the North Coast
West Coast Gray Whale “Unusual Mortality Event” Continues
Between January 1, 2019 and February 8 of this year, 613 stranded gray whales have been found along the west coast of North America between Puerto Vallarta, Mexico and the Chukchi Sea in northern Alaska. Eight were found along the coast between South Humboldt Bay and the Oregon border. This has been declared an Unusual Mortality Event (UME)...Photo credit: NOAA Fisheries.
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