Fishermen Oppose Offshore Wind Project Near Long Island

Commercial fishing communities are urging President Biden to reconsider a planned offshore wind farm off Long Island, warning it could severely impact their livelihoods and marine ecosystems.

Representatives from fishing groups and environmental organizations gathered at the Fulton Fish Market in the Bronx to highlight concerns over the Empire Wind One project, which is designed to power around 500,000 homes with renewable energy.

The project, developed by Norwegian company Equinor, faced a temporary halt in April while federal authorities reviewed its permits, but construction resumed after a month-long pause. Critics argue the wind farm could interfere with navigational radar used by ships, increasing the risk of collisions and complicating water rescue efforts.

Local fishermen also harvest various seafood in the area where turbines are being installed. Bonnie Brady, head of the Long Island Commercial Fishing Association, emphasized the importance of these seafood harvesters, labeling them as “the last of the high-quality seafood harvesters.” She expressed disappointment that some officials might overlook the industry’s significance.

Advocates say the industry generates over $2 billion annually in New York and New Jersey and employs more than 140,000 workers. Many believe the wind farm’s approval process has been driven by political motives, and some have called for President Biden to intervene.

A lawsuit filed in June by fishing companies seeks to restore the stop-work order previously issued by Interior Secretary Doug Burgum, citing potential harm to fishing operations and marine safety. Neither the Interior Department nor Equinor immediately responded to requests for comment.

The turbines are expected to be built 15 to 30 miles south of Long Island and will consist of 54 turbines. The project aligns with state goals for renewable energy and zero-emission electricity by 2040, phasing out fossil fuels by 2050. Critics argue that the project’s benefits may be outweighed by the risks it poses to longstanding fishing industries.