The Oregon Coast Anglers May 5th meeting was open to the public for a presentation and discussion about the ocean wind farm proposal made by the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM). Approximately sixty people, a mix of OCA members, commercial and sport anglers and the general public attended. The presentation was comprised of out-takes from various presentations including BOEM’s February presentation. John Moriarty, Deputy USCG provided an overview of the Pacific Coast Port Access Route Study (PAC-PARS). There were many questions throughout the presentation and I was very thankful for John’s help in responding to navigation issues. A survey was circulated and the responses were mixed regarding support for BOEM’s proposed ocean wind farms. The discussions ended with a request for people to get involved and make comments and ask questions at the National Register web site before the June 28th deadline, Regulations.gov in the Search window enter BOEM-2022-0009.
I attended the Catching the Wind community listening session at the Mill Casino in Coos Bay on May 4th. Perhaps one hundred attendees representing commercial fishing enterprises, Tribes and the community numerous of whom spoke out. I announced OCA meetings and presentations regarding ocean wind farms.
Additional ocean wind farm presentations are planned for Brookings on May 24th at the Elks Lodge at 6:00 PM, Bandon on May 28th at the Community Center “Barn” at 1:00 PM, and Florence on June 1st at the Elks Lodge starting at 6:00 PM.
There is a rally to show support for commercial and recreational anglers impacted by the BOEM Coos Bay Call Area scheduled for May 10th at the Coos Bay Board Walk starting at 5:00 PM. After a short parade there will be a Seafood BBQ.