Concerns About Offshore Wind Energy Development On Endangered Roseate Terns.pdf

The American Bird Conservancy (ABC) and several conservation groups express concern over the potential impact of extensive offshore wind energy development on the endangered Roseate Tern. BOEM has leased areas on the eastern continental shelf for commercial wind projects, including locations off the coasts of multiple states. While these leases grant exclusive approval rights, they do not construct facilities, necessitating environmental studies to assess wildlife risks.

The Roseate Tern migrates along the eastern seaboard and breeds on sandy or rocky islands with low plant cover. During breeding and post-breeding periods, they forage in coastal waters, potentially putting them at risk of collisions with offshore wind turbines. The groups advocate for full Environmental Impact Statements (EIS) and Section 7 consultation with the FWS for each project, emphasizing the need for mitigation strategies to protect terns.

They highlight the importance of responsible renewable energy development, particularly proper siting to minimize impacts on protected species like the Roseate Tern. The groups request updates on wildlife surveys, EISs, and the status of a preliminary report due in spring 2017, pledging to monitor the situation closely to ensure federally-protected birds are not unduly affected.