Frustrated fishermen demand answers, transparency after vineyard wind failure

NANTUCKET – Members of the New England Fishermen’s Stewardship Association (NEFSA) and the Responsible Offshore Development Alliance (RODA) are demanding a thorough investigation into the recent incident involving a detached blade from a Vineyard Wind turbine.

The mishap, which occurred on July 13, resulted in widespread debris across significant fishing areas from Nantucket to Cape Cod, causing concern among local fishermen.

Jerry Leeman, CEO of NEFSA, expressed the community’s frustration, stating, “Trust between fishermen and offshore wind developers is at an absolute nadir.”

He emphasized the necessity for the Bureau of Safety and Environmental Enforcement (BSEE) to conduct a detailed and transparent investigation to restore confidence within the fishing community.

The incident has sparked a strong response, with a letter to BSEE, signed by 1730 stakeholders, urging the agency to meet specific investigatory criteria before allowing Vineyard Wind to resume operations.

The letter outlines several demands, including a comprehensive review of all turbines, public disclosure of investigation findings, and an evaluation of potential changes to the offshore wind permitting process to enhance federal oversight.

The delay in Vineyard Wind’s acknowledgment of the incident and the perceived downplaying of its severity have further strained relations, prompting calls for heightened transparency and accountability.

The fishing community, backed by NEFSA and RODA, awaits a prompt response from BSEE to address their concerns comprehensively and ensure the safety and sustainability of their livelihoods.

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Phil Stilton is the Editor and Publisher of Shore News Network, an independent digital newsroom providing original reporting on New Jersey, national news, government, public policy, public safety, courts, and community affairs.

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