As the son to a third-generation scallop fisherman, I have a deeply personal stake in the health of the Atlantic scallop fisheries. These fisheries are essential not only to my family's livelihood but also to the economic and cultural fabric of communities across the Atlantic Coast. The proposed offshore wind farm developments threaten to disrupt these vital waters, endangering both our environment and a way of life cherished by seafood lovers and the restaurant industry alike. We must ensure these projects are carefully planned to protect our treasured marine resources.

Our local economies rely heavily on these fisheries. According to NOAA Fisheries' data from 2019, U.S. commercial fishermen landed over 60 million pounds of sea scallops valued at nearly $570 million (NOAA Fisheries). Yet these valuable resources are at risk from offshore wind farms without comprehensive environmental assessments.

Offshore wind farming, while championed as a clean energy solution, can pose significant and potentially temporary environmental and economic challenges. One of the primary concerns is the disruption to marine ecosystems. The installation of wind turbines requires substantial seabed disturbances that can alter habitats for various marine species, including fish, birds, and marine mammals. These disturbances often lead to changes in migration patterns, breeding grounds, and food sources, which can have cascading effects throughout the ecosystem.

Critically, the longevity and efficiency of offshore wind farms are not always guaranteed. The harsh marine environment can lead to faster degradation of turbine components compared to their onshore counterparts. This degradation can result in shorter operational lifespans and higher maintenance costs, diminishing the economic return on investment over time.

We call upon community members, environmental advocates, seafood consumers in Virginia Beach and beyond to join us in petitioning state and federal regulators. We must demand that they implement comprehensive environmental assessments before approving any offshore wind farm projects.

Let's ensure every project is thoroughly checked so that stakeholders in the scallop industry are safe from significant disruptions. Let's advocate for sustainability while preserving our heritage and livelihoods.

Please sign this petition today - say yes to “Save Our Scallops”!