WILMINGTON — Leading experts nationwide are converging in Wilmington July 19 to discuss issues surrounding offshore wind development in the state.
The North Carolina Offshore Wind and Wildlife Solutions Summit, hosted by the North Carolina Coastal Federation and other environmental groups, is an opportunity for stakeholders to share solutions and best practices that guide regulators and wind developers to a “shared pathway” for responsible offshore wind development while also protecting wildlife.
READ MORE: Offshore wind developers, conservation groups collaborate to protect birds
“Offshore wind is poised to grow quickly, and we need leadership from the state and wind developers to ensure that robust wildlife protections are included from the start. The summit will be a critical resource to help that happen,” said Greg Andeck, Director of Government Relations, Audubon North Carolina.
It will be the first public gathering of offshore wind and wildlife experts coming together to discuss how to proceed in a safe, responsible manner.
“The winds of change are blowing full force to site offshore wind energy turbines off the North Carolina coast,” N.C. Coastal Federation executive director Todd Miller said in a press release. “This summit helps us better understand and manage the potential environmental impacts of the offshore wind facilities so that sensitive and productive coastal fish and wildlife resources are protected.”
Sessions will focus on offshore wind impacts and solutions related to birds and bats, marine mammals and turtles, fish and benthic habitats and infrastructure including transmission, ports and transportation corridors.
“The potential for offshore wind in our state is profound, for North Carolina’s economy and the environment,” NC Sierra Club director of coastal programs Erin Carey said in the release. “We must match that potential with responsible and mindful planning. This summit will give decision-makers a realistic and science-based perspective on how to assure that offshore wind development co-exists with proper guardianship of our marine wildlife.”
The summit will be held at The Terraces at Sir Tyler, 18226 Sir Tyler Dr. in Wilmington from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Tips or comments? Email [email protected].
Want to read more from PCD? Subscribe now and then sign up for our morning newsletter, Wilmington Wire, and get the headlines delivered to your inbox every morning.
