Presentation at Shellfish Aquaculture in Federal Waters Workshop
May 15 & 16, 2019
Cat Cove Marine Lab, Salem State University, Salem MA 01970
In 2012, we applied for an U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) permit pursuant to Section 10 of the Rivers and Harbors Act of 1899 to establish a commercial scale (33 acre) offshore mussel farm off the coast of Cape Ann Massachusetts (NAE-2012-1598 NEMAC Aquaculture). In 2015 we were issued a permit with conditions from the USACE and NOAA that involved a phased-in approach, in which three longlines could be deployed with gear designed to prevent and minimize possible entanglement as a pilot study coupled with extensive monitoring for interactions with species that are protected under the Marine Mammal Protection Act and Endangered Species Act, and their habitats. Additional conditions from the USCG required our longline headers to be submerged to a depth of 50 ft to account for possible deep draft vessels transiting through the area.
This report will focus on the process of securing an USACE permit to establish this farm and disseminate what was learned about this process to others wishing to pursue offshore shellfish aquaculture.
The document summarizes long-term stewardship activities at Amchitka Island in Alaska. Major activities include soil and groundwater monitoring to ensure restrictions on access to subsurface contamination are enforced. The site covers 30,000 hectares and long-term stewardship is estimated to cost $23,000 annually and will continue in perpetuity. Monitoring involves sampling soil and groundwater every 5 years to restrict access to nuclear test sites on the island and ensure contaminants remain isolated.
This document summarizes CSA's services related to ports, harbors, and beaches. CSA has over 45 years of experience providing environmental services to support marine construction and dredging projects, including port development, dredging, oil and gas terminals, shipping, and beach nourishment. Their services include environmental permitting, surveys of marine habitats, mitigation of impacts to corals and seagrasses, monitoring programs, and working with resource agencies. The document highlights two representative projects involving monitoring of hardbottom habitats near a beach nourishment project in Florida and relocating corals and transplanting seagrasses as mitigation for a dredging project in Miami Harbor.
This document provides information about NAVFAC Pacific's natural resources program and staff. It includes:
- A list of NAVFAC Pacific's areas of responsibility and bases within different regions.
- Contact information for the leadership of NAVFAC Pacific's Environmental Planning and Conservation division.
- Rosters of the Terrestrial Natural Resources and Applied Biology staff, and Marine Resources staff, with names, emails, and phone numbers.
- Brief descriptions of the types of projects and activities the Terrestrial Natural Resources group undertakes, such as ESA consultations and implementing Integrated Natural Resources Management Plans.
- Examples of successes in translocating endangered tree snails during the Marine Corps
This document summarizes Southern California Edison's marine mitigation program for the San Onofre Nuclear Generating Station. It describes the station's once-through cooling system and its impacts on marine life, including entrainment of fish eggs and larvae and effects on the nearby kelp forest. As required by the Coastal Commission, SCE established a mitigation program that included constructing 150 acres of artificial reef habitat and 150 acres of tidal wetlands to compensate for these impacts. The program also included studies of the station's fish return system and long-term monitoring. SCE has spent over $172 million on the mitigation program to date with additional ongoing monitoring costs.
US Fleet Forces Environmental ReadinessBryanHall58
The document discusses the United States Fleet Forces' environmental readiness programs, which include monitoring marine species and their responses to Navy training activities, conducting research on topics like marine mammal tagging, and ensuring compliance with environmental laws for actions like home basing and expanding aircraft operations. Key programs mentioned are the Integrated Comprehensive Monitoring Program, the Behavioral Response Study on beaked whales and pilot whales, and pinniped tagging in the Chesapeake Bay area.
This document summarizes natural and cultural resource management activities at a naval facility. It outlines that the facility supports various military missions through managing over 87,000 acres of land, which includes 17,000 acres of wetlands and waterways. Key programs at the facility include threatened and endangered species surveys, forestry management, and invasive species control. Recent accomplishments include establishing a regional bat database, GPS tracking of Atlantic sturgeon, and completing all fiscal year 2019 funds execution. Natural resource management supports the military mission through compliance activities and programs that balance training needs with environmental protection.
Navy Region Hawaii Natural Resources Program OverviewBryanHall58
The Navy Region Hawaii Natural Resources Program oversees natural resource management and conservation efforts at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam and Pacific Missile Range Facility. It maintains Integrated Natural Resource Management Plans for both installations and works to protect 35 endangered species at JBPHH and 17 at PMRF. The program's goals are to support military operations through conservation programs while complying with the Endangered Species Act and maintaining habitat exemptions. It focuses on invasive species removal, habitat restoration, and species protection to reduce impacts to infrastructure, land use, and military activities from wildlife.
This document provides an overview of Commander Navy Region Northwest's natural resource management programs across 4 installations and 16 reporting units. It summarizes that they manage over 66,000 acres of ecosystem, including federally-listed and species of concern. Key programs include habitat management, forestry, fire control, hunting/fishing, and invasive species control. Recent accomplishments include aquatic habitat restoration, estuary mitigation, and surveys of species like marbled murrelets. Lessons learned include changes to acoustic thresholds in consultations and linking natural resource projects more closely to installation missions.
The document summarizes long-term stewardship activities at Amchitka Island in Alaska. Major activities include soil and groundwater monitoring to ensure restrictions on access to subsurface contamination are enforced. The site covers 30,000 hectares and long-term stewardship is estimated to cost $23,000 annually and will continue in perpetuity. Monitoring involves sampling soil and groundwater every 5 years to restrict access to nuclear test sites on the island and ensure contaminants remain isolated.
This document summarizes CSA's services related to ports, harbors, and beaches. CSA has over 45 years of experience providing environmental services to support marine construction and dredging projects, including port development, dredging, oil and gas terminals, shipping, and beach nourishment. Their services include environmental permitting, surveys of marine habitats, mitigation of impacts to corals and seagrasses, monitoring programs, and working with resource agencies. The document highlights two representative projects involving monitoring of hardbottom habitats near a beach nourishment project in Florida and relocating corals and transplanting seagrasses as mitigation for a dredging project in Miami Harbor.
This document provides information about NAVFAC Pacific's natural resources program and staff. It includes:
- A list of NAVFAC Pacific's areas of responsibility and bases within different regions.
- Contact information for the leadership of NAVFAC Pacific's Environmental Planning and Conservation division.
- Rosters of the Terrestrial Natural Resources and Applied Biology staff, and Marine Resources staff, with names, emails, and phone numbers.
- Brief descriptions of the types of projects and activities the Terrestrial Natural Resources group undertakes, such as ESA consultations and implementing Integrated Natural Resources Management Plans.
- Examples of successes in translocating endangered tree snails during the Marine Corps
This document summarizes Southern California Edison's marine mitigation program for the San Onofre Nuclear Generating Station. It describes the station's once-through cooling system and its impacts on marine life, including entrainment of fish eggs and larvae and effects on the nearby kelp forest. As required by the Coastal Commission, SCE established a mitigation program that included constructing 150 acres of artificial reef habitat and 150 acres of tidal wetlands to compensate for these impacts. The program also included studies of the station's fish return system and long-term monitoring. SCE has spent over $172 million on the mitigation program to date with additional ongoing monitoring costs.
US Fleet Forces Environmental ReadinessBryanHall58
The document discusses the United States Fleet Forces' environmental readiness programs, which include monitoring marine species and their responses to Navy training activities, conducting research on topics like marine mammal tagging, and ensuring compliance with environmental laws for actions like home basing and expanding aircraft operations. Key programs mentioned are the Integrated Comprehensive Monitoring Program, the Behavioral Response Study on beaked whales and pilot whales, and pinniped tagging in the Chesapeake Bay area.
This document summarizes natural and cultural resource management activities at a naval facility. It outlines that the facility supports various military missions through managing over 87,000 acres of land, which includes 17,000 acres of wetlands and waterways. Key programs at the facility include threatened and endangered species surveys, forestry management, and invasive species control. Recent accomplishments include establishing a regional bat database, GPS tracking of Atlantic sturgeon, and completing all fiscal year 2019 funds execution. Natural resource management supports the military mission through compliance activities and programs that balance training needs with environmental protection.
Navy Region Hawaii Natural Resources Program OverviewBryanHall58
The Navy Region Hawaii Natural Resources Program oversees natural resource management and conservation efforts at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam and Pacific Missile Range Facility. It maintains Integrated Natural Resource Management Plans for both installations and works to protect 35 endangered species at JBPHH and 17 at PMRF. The program's goals are to support military operations through conservation programs while complying with the Endangered Species Act and maintaining habitat exemptions. It focuses on invasive species removal, habitat restoration, and species protection to reduce impacts to infrastructure, land use, and military activities from wildlife.
This document provides an overview of Commander Navy Region Northwest's natural resource management programs across 4 installations and 16 reporting units. It summarizes that they manage over 66,000 acres of ecosystem, including federally-listed and species of concern. Key programs include habitat management, forestry, fire control, hunting/fishing, and invasive species control. Recent accomplishments include aquatic habitat restoration, estuary mitigation, and surveys of species like marbled murrelets. Lessons learned include changes to acoustic thresholds in consultations and linking natural resource projects more closely to installation missions.
The document introduces several natural resources experts within NAVFAC Atlantic including their areas of expertise. It then describes the various natural resources support services provided including environmental compliance, surveys, training and more. Finally it outlines some specific projects supported and cooperative agreements maintained to aid natural resources programs across installations.
The Salmon Site in Mississippi contains subsurface nuclear contamination from tests conducted in the 1960s. Major long-term stewardship activities include groundwater monitoring and enforcing restrictions to prevent access to the contaminated subsurface. The site area is 595 hectares and estimated annual costs for long-term stewardship from 2000-2006 were $60,000. The Department of Energy plans to transfer the surface land to the state after remediating surface contamination, while maintaining restrictions and monitoring of the subsurface indefinitely.
Chambers Group has over 40 years of experience providing marine biology services including underwater surveys, sampling, and studies of oceans, bays, wetlands and streams. They have specialized equipment and follow regulatory protocols to conduct environmental studies from shallow waters to over 1,400 feet deep using SCUBA, manned submersibles and remote operated vehicles. Chambers Group also has expertise in wetlands delineation, restoration planning and permitting for coastal projects. They have worked on restoration projects for Bolsa Chica Wetlands, Colorado Lagoon and Upper Newport Bay, preparing environmental impact documents.
This document summarizes natural resource management activities across multiple Navy installations. It notes that there are 15 installations with natural resource management plans, with one plan currently being updated. The installations support a variety of Navy missions. A total of over 10,000 acres are managed, including forested land, agricultural land, and wetlands. Several species protection and habitat restoration projects have been completed recently. Key ongoing programs include invasive species control, habitat improvement, wildlife hazard reduction, and protection of threatened and endangered species. Lessons from projects were shared, such as the importance of erosion controls and addressing multiple environmental issues. Natural resource management supports the Navy mission by ensuring readiness and operations are not impacted by environmental factors.
This proposal outlines a 7-year salmonid protection project for Swanton Pacific Ranch. It would assess potential impacts to salmonids from construction of a new learning center near Little Creek. A task force would research historical salmonid populations, identify habitats, and monitor numbers for 7 years. The project aims to protect threatened coho salmon and protect the ranch's riparian ecosystems while allowing construction.
This document summarizes natural resource management activities across 10 Navy installations in the Southwest region, totaling over 2.2 million acres of land. It notes that all 21 Integrated Natural Resources Management Plans for these installations are compliant. It provides details on species management, including 49 federally listed species, 1 candidate species, and 156 species of concern. It highlights recent accomplishments in invasive species control and habitat restoration. In closing, it gives examples of how natural resource management supports the Navy's mission at these sites.
This document summarizes a study that counted the escapement of coho salmon returning to spawn in Chester Creek in Anchorage, Alaska. Visual counts by observers and video recordings were used to count 497 coho that successfully escaped over a 42 day period. Statistical analysis found no significant difference between the visual and video counts. A regression model showed that video counts could predict 98% of the visual counts, demonstrating that video monitoring is a reliable method for estimating salmon escapement. The study provides baseline data on coho populations in Chester Creek before a restoration project improves fish passage at the creek's outlet.
The Central Nevada Test Area covers 1,036 hectares and was the site of one underground nuclear test, Faultless, in 1968. Major long-term stewardship activities include groundwater monitoring and enforcing access restrictions due to subsurface contamination. Two mud pits containing contaminated soils were capped. Long-term costs are estimated at $40,000 annually through 2015, increasing periodically due to activities like monitoring well replacement. The site is expected to remain open space managed by the Department of Interior into the future.
NY DEC Letter Refusing to Grant Stream Crossing Permits for Constitution Pipe...Marcellus Drilling News
The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation denied Constitution Pipeline Company's request for a Clean Water Act Section 401 Water Quality Certification for the proposed Constitution natural gas pipeline project. The DEC found that the project would significantly impact over 250 streams and 85 acres of wetlands through construction and operation. It also determined that tree clearing had already occurred near streams without proper approvals. The DEC concluded that Constitution failed to adequately address concerns about impacts to water resources and alternatives that could reduce impacts. As a result, the DEC was unable to determine that the project would comply with water quality standards.
William Santelik is a senior environmental and natural resources program lead seeking to develop a team of scientists and engineers. He has over 15 years of experience managing projects involving wetland delineation and mitigation, stream characterization, erosion control, and ecological restoration. Some of his past projects include developing sustainable monitoring plans for stormwater ponds, implementing native plant buffers to improve water quality, and coordinating surveys and data collection for pipeline projects.
This document discusses strategies for developing a regional salmon recovery plan along the Washington coast. It provides background on the planning process, which involves multiple watersheds and Lead Entity groups working to synthesize strategies at a regional scale. Key steps discussed include establishing a regional technical committee to provide scientific support, conducting a threats assessment for different salmon habitat targets, and identifying goals, objectives, strategies and monitoring measures through an adaptive management process. The overall aim is to develop a coordinated, science-based plan for recovering salmon populations across the coastal region.
The (Conoco) Conquista Site in Texas was formerly used for uranium milling from 1972 to 1982. Remediation activities are being conducted by the site owner, Continental Oil Company (CONOCO), to consolidate contaminated mill tailings, soil, and debris into an onsite disposal cell. In 2002, the U.S. Department of Energy will assume responsibility for long-term stewardship activities at the 243 hectare site, including monitoring of the disposal cell and contaminated groundwater. The estimated annual long-term stewardship cost from 2000 to 2006 is $38,943.
This thesis examines the spatial and temporal distribution of sediment flux and nutrient bioavailability in the Endalen glacial valley in Svalbard, Norway. The author collected samples from sites along the valley to analyze suspended sediment and nutrient fluxes. Results showed that sediment flux remains relatively constant along the valley, as do nitrogen and carbon ratios, indicating samples from any location downstream adequately represent the whole valley. Temporal analysis highlighted the importance of glacial meltwater runoff in transporting sediment and nutrients, as well as determining erosion rates and hydrochemistry in polythermal glacial valleys. This work provides the first study of its kind investigating sediment flux throughout an entire polythermal glacial system.
This report summarizes the fourth year of post-construction monitoring of the San Dieguito Wetlands Restoration Project, which was constructed between 2006-2011 as tidal wetland mitigation required by SONGS's coastal permit. In 2015, vegetation development continued to be promising in some areas but remained sparse in others. 93 bird species, 19 fish species, and 69 invertebrate taxa were recorded using the wetland. The project met 4 of 5 absolute success standards but did not meet requirements for relative standards or biological communities standards due to underperformance of vegetation cover and invertebrate densities compared to reference wetlands. Continued monitoring and analysis are needed to determine causes and address underperformance to bring the project into
The Dead Run Drive Outfall Restoration project in Fairfax County, VA involved restoring 60 linear feet of eroded channel near Dead Run Drive. The goals were to address safety, stabilize the erosion using natural designs, and encourage native plant growth. Crews rebuilt the channel with stone steps and plantings to control water flow and prevent further erosion. After completion in August 2018, the restored channel was successfully stabilized with native vegetation.
Lori Trottier has managed and authored environmental documents for a wide range of projects in California and other western states. These include residential, mixed-use, industrial, commercial, infrastructure, energy, hazardous materials remediation, and sports/recreation projects. She has extensive experience preparing CEQA and NEPA documents and coordinating with various regulatory agencies.
Responses to Public Comments About Beach Restoration at QuogueQuogueBeaches
This document is a letter from First Coastal Corporation responding to public comments on a beach restoration project in Quogue, NY. It summarizes 15 topics of public concern and provides responses to each. The key points addressed are that studies show the area has lost 500,000 cubic yards of sand and needs restoration, the project will have minimal short-term environmental impacts and restore habitat, and it is designed with a 10-year lifespan based on scientific calculations of erosion rates.
Amchitka Island is a 30,000 hectare site in Alaska where the US conducted three underground nuclear tests between 1965-1971. Long-term stewardship activities include monitoring soil and groundwater for contamination, and enforcing access restrictions to prevent intrusion into contaminated areas. Monitoring is conducted every 5 years at a cost of about $23,000 per year. The US Fish and Wildlife Service manages the island as a wildlife refuge, while the US Department of Energy maintains restrictions on the test areas indefinitely.
This document summarizes a study to identify tidal creeks in Beaufort County, SC that are most sensitive to changes in salinity from stormwater runoff. It outlines a partnership between Beaufort County, SCDNR, and other organizations to monitor salinity changes in 5 watersheds under different rainfall conditions. The goals are to determine which watersheds are most impacted, how far downstream effects occur, and how volume control strategies and development affect conditions. Monitoring involves rainfall and salinity data loggers over 9-10 months. Results will inform the county's stormwater management plan and protection of important fisheries habitats.
Mr. MacDougall has over 10 years of experience as a biologist providing ecological consulting services including wetland delineations and assessments, endangered species surveys, and environmental monitoring for development projects. He holds a MS in Environmental Studies and has received numerous certifications in areas such as wetland delineation, endangered species surveying, and health and safety training. His project experience includes conducting desktop analyses and field investigations for solar, utility, and pipeline projects across multiple states.
The document introduces several natural resources experts within NAVFAC Atlantic including their areas of expertise. It then describes the various natural resources support services provided including environmental compliance, surveys, training and more. Finally it outlines some specific projects supported and cooperative agreements maintained to aid natural resources programs across installations.
The Salmon Site in Mississippi contains subsurface nuclear contamination from tests conducted in the 1960s. Major long-term stewardship activities include groundwater monitoring and enforcing restrictions to prevent access to the contaminated subsurface. The site area is 595 hectares and estimated annual costs for long-term stewardship from 2000-2006 were $60,000. The Department of Energy plans to transfer the surface land to the state after remediating surface contamination, while maintaining restrictions and monitoring of the subsurface indefinitely.
Chambers Group has over 40 years of experience providing marine biology services including underwater surveys, sampling, and studies of oceans, bays, wetlands and streams. They have specialized equipment and follow regulatory protocols to conduct environmental studies from shallow waters to over 1,400 feet deep using SCUBA, manned submersibles and remote operated vehicles. Chambers Group also has expertise in wetlands delineation, restoration planning and permitting for coastal projects. They have worked on restoration projects for Bolsa Chica Wetlands, Colorado Lagoon and Upper Newport Bay, preparing environmental impact documents.
This document summarizes natural resource management activities across multiple Navy installations. It notes that there are 15 installations with natural resource management plans, with one plan currently being updated. The installations support a variety of Navy missions. A total of over 10,000 acres are managed, including forested land, agricultural land, and wetlands. Several species protection and habitat restoration projects have been completed recently. Key ongoing programs include invasive species control, habitat improvement, wildlife hazard reduction, and protection of threatened and endangered species. Lessons from projects were shared, such as the importance of erosion controls and addressing multiple environmental issues. Natural resource management supports the Navy mission by ensuring readiness and operations are not impacted by environmental factors.
This proposal outlines a 7-year salmonid protection project for Swanton Pacific Ranch. It would assess potential impacts to salmonids from construction of a new learning center near Little Creek. A task force would research historical salmonid populations, identify habitats, and monitor numbers for 7 years. The project aims to protect threatened coho salmon and protect the ranch's riparian ecosystems while allowing construction.
This document summarizes natural resource management activities across 10 Navy installations in the Southwest region, totaling over 2.2 million acres of land. It notes that all 21 Integrated Natural Resources Management Plans for these installations are compliant. It provides details on species management, including 49 federally listed species, 1 candidate species, and 156 species of concern. It highlights recent accomplishments in invasive species control and habitat restoration. In closing, it gives examples of how natural resource management supports the Navy's mission at these sites.
This document summarizes a study that counted the escapement of coho salmon returning to spawn in Chester Creek in Anchorage, Alaska. Visual counts by observers and video recordings were used to count 497 coho that successfully escaped over a 42 day period. Statistical analysis found no significant difference between the visual and video counts. A regression model showed that video counts could predict 98% of the visual counts, demonstrating that video monitoring is a reliable method for estimating salmon escapement. The study provides baseline data on coho populations in Chester Creek before a restoration project improves fish passage at the creek's outlet.
The Central Nevada Test Area covers 1,036 hectares and was the site of one underground nuclear test, Faultless, in 1968. Major long-term stewardship activities include groundwater monitoring and enforcing access restrictions due to subsurface contamination. Two mud pits containing contaminated soils were capped. Long-term costs are estimated at $40,000 annually through 2015, increasing periodically due to activities like monitoring well replacement. The site is expected to remain open space managed by the Department of Interior into the future.
NY DEC Letter Refusing to Grant Stream Crossing Permits for Constitution Pipe...Marcellus Drilling News
The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation denied Constitution Pipeline Company's request for a Clean Water Act Section 401 Water Quality Certification for the proposed Constitution natural gas pipeline project. The DEC found that the project would significantly impact over 250 streams and 85 acres of wetlands through construction and operation. It also determined that tree clearing had already occurred near streams without proper approvals. The DEC concluded that Constitution failed to adequately address concerns about impacts to water resources and alternatives that could reduce impacts. As a result, the DEC was unable to determine that the project would comply with water quality standards.
William Santelik is a senior environmental and natural resources program lead seeking to develop a team of scientists and engineers. He has over 15 years of experience managing projects involving wetland delineation and mitigation, stream characterization, erosion control, and ecological restoration. Some of his past projects include developing sustainable monitoring plans for stormwater ponds, implementing native plant buffers to improve water quality, and coordinating surveys and data collection for pipeline projects.
This document discusses strategies for developing a regional salmon recovery plan along the Washington coast. It provides background on the planning process, which involves multiple watersheds and Lead Entity groups working to synthesize strategies at a regional scale. Key steps discussed include establishing a regional technical committee to provide scientific support, conducting a threats assessment for different salmon habitat targets, and identifying goals, objectives, strategies and monitoring measures through an adaptive management process. The overall aim is to develop a coordinated, science-based plan for recovering salmon populations across the coastal region.
The (Conoco) Conquista Site in Texas was formerly used for uranium milling from 1972 to 1982. Remediation activities are being conducted by the site owner, Continental Oil Company (CONOCO), to consolidate contaminated mill tailings, soil, and debris into an onsite disposal cell. In 2002, the U.S. Department of Energy will assume responsibility for long-term stewardship activities at the 243 hectare site, including monitoring of the disposal cell and contaminated groundwater. The estimated annual long-term stewardship cost from 2000 to 2006 is $38,943.
This thesis examines the spatial and temporal distribution of sediment flux and nutrient bioavailability in the Endalen glacial valley in Svalbard, Norway. The author collected samples from sites along the valley to analyze suspended sediment and nutrient fluxes. Results showed that sediment flux remains relatively constant along the valley, as do nitrogen and carbon ratios, indicating samples from any location downstream adequately represent the whole valley. Temporal analysis highlighted the importance of glacial meltwater runoff in transporting sediment and nutrients, as well as determining erosion rates and hydrochemistry in polythermal glacial valleys. This work provides the first study of its kind investigating sediment flux throughout an entire polythermal glacial system.
This report summarizes the fourth year of post-construction monitoring of the San Dieguito Wetlands Restoration Project, which was constructed between 2006-2011 as tidal wetland mitigation required by SONGS's coastal permit. In 2015, vegetation development continued to be promising in some areas but remained sparse in others. 93 bird species, 19 fish species, and 69 invertebrate taxa were recorded using the wetland. The project met 4 of 5 absolute success standards but did not meet requirements for relative standards or biological communities standards due to underperformance of vegetation cover and invertebrate densities compared to reference wetlands. Continued monitoring and analysis are needed to determine causes and address underperformance to bring the project into
The Dead Run Drive Outfall Restoration project in Fairfax County, VA involved restoring 60 linear feet of eroded channel near Dead Run Drive. The goals were to address safety, stabilize the erosion using natural designs, and encourage native plant growth. Crews rebuilt the channel with stone steps and plantings to control water flow and prevent further erosion. After completion in August 2018, the restored channel was successfully stabilized with native vegetation.
Lori Trottier has managed and authored environmental documents for a wide range of projects in California and other western states. These include residential, mixed-use, industrial, commercial, infrastructure, energy, hazardous materials remediation, and sports/recreation projects. She has extensive experience preparing CEQA and NEPA documents and coordinating with various regulatory agencies.
Responses to Public Comments About Beach Restoration at QuogueQuogueBeaches
This document is a letter from First Coastal Corporation responding to public comments on a beach restoration project in Quogue, NY. It summarizes 15 topics of public concern and provides responses to each. The key points addressed are that studies show the area has lost 500,000 cubic yards of sand and needs restoration, the project will have minimal short-term environmental impacts and restore habitat, and it is designed with a 10-year lifespan based on scientific calculations of erosion rates.
Amchitka Island is a 30,000 hectare site in Alaska where the US conducted three underground nuclear tests between 1965-1971. Long-term stewardship activities include monitoring soil and groundwater for contamination, and enforcing access restrictions to prevent intrusion into contaminated areas. Monitoring is conducted every 5 years at a cost of about $23,000 per year. The US Fish and Wildlife Service manages the island as a wildlife refuge, while the US Department of Energy maintains restrictions on the test areas indefinitely.
This document summarizes a study to identify tidal creeks in Beaufort County, SC that are most sensitive to changes in salinity from stormwater runoff. It outlines a partnership between Beaufort County, SCDNR, and other organizations to monitor salinity changes in 5 watersheds under different rainfall conditions. The goals are to determine which watersheds are most impacted, how far downstream effects occur, and how volume control strategies and development affect conditions. Monitoring involves rainfall and salinity data loggers over 9-10 months. Results will inform the county's stormwater management plan and protection of important fisheries habitats.
Mr. MacDougall has over 10 years of experience as a biologist providing ecological consulting services including wetland delineations and assessments, endangered species surveys, and environmental monitoring for development projects. He holds a MS in Environmental Studies and has received numerous certifications in areas such as wetland delineation, endangered species surveying, and health and safety training. His project experience includes conducting desktop analyses and field investigations for solar, utility, and pipeline projects across multiple states.
The document summarizes wetlands planning and projects in the Matanuska-Susitna Borough. It discusses the borough's definition of wetlands, reasons for focusing on wetlands work including population growth, and completed and ongoing wetlands projects like mapping, education, assessments, and management planning. These projects aim to increase awareness and protection of wetlands in the rapidly developing borough.
FY 2013 R&D REPORT January 6 2014 - National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administ...Lyle Birkey
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) conducts $331 million in environmental research and development annually. This research is conducted through NOAA's Office of Oceanic and Atmospheric Research (OAR) and its seven laboratories across the US. OAR research addresses climate, weather, oceans, coasts, and atmospheric chemistry to improve NOAA products and services. Specific areas of research include hurricanes, severe storms, air quality, ocean acidification, fisheries, and coastal and marine ecosystem science.
This presentation was given at the 2011 Ecotourism and Sustainable Tourism Conference in Hilton Head Island, South Carolina. It summarized the Town of Hilton Head Island's beach management program, which includes regular beach monitoring, renourishment projects using nearby sand sources, and stabilizing structures. The program has widened beaches, increased recreation areas, and protected development from erosion at a total cost of $40 million. Future projects aim to maintain current beach conditions with smaller volumes of sand rather than continual widening.
The document discusses the North Pacific Salmon Hatchery Database project. It aims to inventory salmon hatchery programs through a spatial database to understand the effects of hatcheries on wild salmon populations and marine carrying capacity. So far, the GIS layer is complete with release and return data uploaded for Alaska and British Columbia. Future work includes uploading historic data and developing economic information to further inform research on hatchery impacts and conservation priorities.
Kenin Greer has extensive experience in marine biology. He holds a Bachelor's degree in Biology and Zoology from Humboldt State University, where he conducted research on algae, invertebrates, and bacteria in tide pools. Greer has worked for the California Department of Fish and Game and NOAA, conducting fisheries sampling and protected species monitoring. He currently works part-time maintaining aquarium systems and as a naturalist on whale watching tours in Hawaii.
Bruce Carlisle Massachusetts Ocean Management: Implementation Progress and Re...riseagrant
The document summarizes Massachusetts' progress in implementing its Ocean Management Plan. Key points include:
- The plan established siting standards and identified/mapped special marine habitats and areas of high existing ocean use to guide protection and development.
- Agencies are coordinating regulatory decisions and prioritizing science like improved mapping of habitats and recreational boating data.
- A case study showed how standards guided a cable project to avoid sensitive habitats through routing changes and construction methods.
- An Ecological Valuation Index was developed to systematically evaluate habitat importance, though it has limitations due to data availability.
The document discusses the Integrated Ocean Observing System (IOOS) and the Northwest Association of Networked Ocean Observing Systems (NANOOS). NANOOS monitors and collects data from the Pacific Northwest using various platforms. It engages local stakeholders and ensures consistent national capabilities to address diverse regional needs. NANOOS data can help manage marine resources and its goals include improving predictions, safety, hazard forecasts, security, public health, and sustaining resources.
This document discusses states' roles in developing offshore wind in the United States. It outlines the permitting authorities and processes for offshore wind projects in federal waters, state waters, and the Great Lakes. Several states like Massachusetts, Rhode Island, New Jersey, and Michigan are actively supporting and regulating offshore wind development through legislation, requests for proposals from developers, and feasibility studies. The future of offshore wind will depend on continued state initiatives and federal-state coordination on siting and permitting offshore projects.
New Orleans , Garret Graves, Chairman, Louisiana Coastal Protection and Restoration Authority; National Institute for Coastal & Harbor Infrastructure, John F. Kennedy Center, Boston, Nov. 12, 2013: "The Triple Threat of Rising Sea Levels, Extreme Storms and Aging Infrastructure: Coastal Community Responses and The Federal Role" See http://www.nichiusa.org or http://www.nichi.us
Coastal Impact Assistance Program Surge Newsletter (Vol 1 Issue 1 August 2013)Zach Stevenson
The Coastal Impact Assistance Program (CIAP) provides grant funding from offshore oil and gas revenues to six coastal states, including Alaska. Alaska receives nearly $80 million in CIAP funds divided into two pots. Pot 1 of $51.6 million is administered by the Alaska Department of Natural Resources to fund projects benefitting the coastal environment. Pot 2 of $28 million goes to eight Coastal Political Subdivisions. The CIAP funds over 130 projects around Alaska related to issues such as spill response, habitat restoration, and climate change. This newsletter highlights funded projects and provides program updates.
1992 Report of the North Carolina Environmental Sciences Review Panel to the ...jclark_selc
The document summarizes the findings and recommendations of the 1992 North Carolina Environmental Sciences Review Panel (ESRP) regarding the adequacy of available scientific information for offshore drilling in North Carolina waters. The ESRP identified major deficiencies in physical oceanographic, ecological, and socioeconomic data that limited the ability to understand and predict impacts. They recommended additional studies in these areas, especially for sites being considered for leasing, to provide the information needed to properly evaluate drilling proposals and protect the environment.
This document outlines a study to monitor the health of marine ecosystems in Lokobe National Park in Madagascar. The study will conduct surveys of fish populations, coral health conditions, and oceanographic parameters to assess ecosystem health and determine if declines in coral health can be linked to environmental factors. Methods include rapid fish surveys, line transect surveys of coral cover and health, water quality testing, and GPS mapping. The goal is to establish long-term monitoring methods that can be conducted by students and researchers to track changes in the marine environment over time.
The document discusses ocean energy technology development in the United States. It provides an overview of key areas including the Energy Policy Act of 2005, stakeholder projects and coalitions, point absorber and in-stream tidal technology examples, and environmental issues and concerns related to ocean energy development. It also outlines initial strategic steps needed, including characterizing ocean energy technologies and establishing environmental standards.
The Great Lakes Environmental Research Laboratory (GLERL) was formed in 1974 to provide ecosystem research for the Great Lakes. GLERL develops ecosystem forecasts and leads research on issues affecting the Great Lakes and coastal environments. Recent accomplishments include producing the first Lake Erie Harmful Algal Bloom Bulletin and hosting a workshop on climate change impacts. GLERL is expanding forecasting capabilities and research partnerships to better understand threats like algal blooms, invasive species, and climate change impacts.
Similar to ESTABLISHING OFFSHORE SHELLFISH AQUACULTURE IN FEDERAL WATERS OF THE ATLANTIC (20)
GLERL - Leadership in Ecosystem Research in the Great Lakes and Beyond
ESTABLISHING OFFSHORE SHELLFISH AQUACULTURE IN FEDERAL WATERS OF THE ATLANTIC
1. ESTABLISHING
OFFSHORE SHELLFISH AQUACULTURE IN
FEDERAL WATERS OF THE ATLANTIC
Ted Maney, Mark Fregeau
Northeastern Massachusetts Aquaculture Center
(NEMAC)
Cat Cove Marine Laboratory, Department of Biology
Salem State University
Captain Bill Lee, FV Ocean Reporter, Rockport, MA
2. Permitting Process Timeline
• May 2012: NOAA Fisheries awarded a grant to permit and establish
a demonstration mussel farm in federal waters off the coast of
Massachusetts.
• July – August 2012: Selected 2 possible sites and conducted
preliminary surveys.
• September 2012: Held an informal conference with various state
and federal government agencies
– Determined that Site 2 was not feasible due to the fact that is was within the
Stellwagen Bank Marine Sanctuary (SBNMS) and mariculture activities are
prohibited.
– MA Coastal Zone Management requested an Environmental Impact Statement
to determine applicability for federal consistency
– Initial Permit Application submitted to ACOE pursuant to Sec 10 Rivers and
Harbors Act (33 USC Sections 401).
• December 21, 2012: Submitted Impact Report to ACOE and MA CZM
using format similar to other established permitted farms in coastal
waters.
3. • January 2013:
• MA CZM requests federal consistency review to NOAA Ocean
Service Office of Ocean and Coastal Resource Management
(OCRM).
• Notified of conflict with federal permitting in Northern
Temporary PSP Closure Area.
• March 19, 2013: OCRM Denies Commonwealth of MA Review of
Unlisted Activity based on permitting of coastal permits previously
issued.
• April 23, 2013: ACOE issues Public Notice (NAE-2012-1598)
• May 2013: Discussed alternate site outside PSP Closure Area at
Horseshoe Shoals and preparation to submit an ACOE permit
application.
• May 23, 2013: Public Comment period ended.
Permitting Process Timeline
4. Permitting Process Timeline
• June – November 2013: Resolution of concerns raised by USCG and
various NOAA offices.
• A Navigational Safety Risk Assessment (NSRA) was submitted to
the USCG (Aug 1, 2013).
• NOAA Office of National Marine Sanctuaries questioned
potential injury to sanctuary resources and proposed 2 alternate
sites
• Both are in MA state waters
• July 2013: Santoro Fishing Corporation submitted an application to
ACOE for a permit to farm mussels in a 28.5 acre site near Horseshoe
Shoals in Nantucket Sound just east of the permitted Cape Wind
farm.
– ACOE Issues Public Notice (NAE-2013-1584) on September 30, 2013.
• November 5, 2013: Based on the information provided in the NSRA,
the Coast Guard has no objections to the location of the mussel
aquaculture farm, provided prescribed recommendations are met.
5. Permitting Process Timeline
• November 13, 2013: Meeting at ACOE with NOAA Aquaculture,
Protected Resources, Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary,
and Essential Fish Habitats. Determined that a Biological
Assessment (BA) in the NOAA prescribed format be submitted for
review.
• January 2014: ACOE distributes Biological Assessment (BA) for the
NEMAC Farm NAE-2012-1598 site to concerned NOAA offices for
review.
• February 4, 2014: ACOE distributes NAE-2013-1584 Domenic
Santoro Aquaculture Biological Assessment to concerned NOAA
offices for review.
• March – Aug 2014: Requests for BA clarifications made and
responses supplied by both permit applicants.
• August 14, 2014: NOAA NMFS submits concurrence letter to ACOE
for NAE-2013-1584 Horseshoe Shoals site permit
6. Permitting Process Timeline
• August 21, 2014: NAE-2013-1584 Horseshoe Shoals permit issued by
ACOE.
• Sept – Dec 2014: Further requests for BA clarifications made by
NOAA PRD and SBNMS for NEMAC permit and responses supplied by
applicants.
• October 2014: Northern and Southern Temporary PSP Closures are
lifted.
• Dec 19, 2014: NOAA PRD and SBNMS issue Letters of Concurrence
that the NEMAC longline project is not likely to adversely affect any
NMFS listed species.
• January 7, 2015: ACOE issues permit NAE-2012-1598 to NEMAC,
Salem State University to establish offshore farm site.
7. Biological Assessment
I. Background / History
A. Project History
i Documentation of Relevant Correspondence
II. Description of the Action and Action Area
A. Discussion of Federal Action and Legal Authority /
Agency Discretion
B. Description of the Project Purpose and Objectives
C. Project Descriptions
i. Description of Project Activities
ii. Operational Characteristics of the Proposed
Project
iii. Description of Proposed Conservation
Measures
iv. Discussion of Underlying Action / Broader
Context / Interdependent and Interrelated
Actions
D. Discussion of Known Ongoing and Previous Projects
in the Action Area
i Fishing Activity In Area
ii Vessel Traffic
iii Fishing Closures
E. Project Area and Action Area Defined
F. Maps of Project Area and Action Area
III. Status of Species and Critical Habitat
A. Essential Fish Habitat (EFH) Designation
B. Endangered Species Act (ESA) Species Plan
IV. Environmental Baseline
A. Description of the Action Area and Project Area
B. Description of the Environmental Baseline
i Site profile
ii Faunal Analysis
V. Effects of the Action
A. Direct Effects
B. Indirect Effects
C. Effects from Interdependent and Interrelated
Actions
D. Effects from Ongoing Project Activities
i Fishing Activities
ii Vessel Traffic
E. Use of Best Scientific and Commercially Available
Data Monitoring Protocols:
i Biological Monitoring
ii Monitoring For Interactions With Protected
Species
iii Actions To Be Taken In The Event Of A
Marine Mammal Or Sea Turtle Entanglement
iv Monitoring Of Gear
v Invasives Monitoring And Prevention
vi Shipboard Testing Of Mussel Meat For
Saxitoxins (PSP)
vii Data Sharing Plan
G. Effects Determination for Listed Species and
Designated Critical Habitat
H. Decommissioning
8. Biological Assessment
1
NEMAC Mussel Farm Biological Assessment
NAE-2012-1598 NEMAC Aquaculture
Mark Fregeau (Permit Applicant)
Northeastern Massachusetts Aquaculture Center
Cat Cove Marine Laboratory
Salem State University
352 Lafayette Street
Salem, MA 01970
mfregeau@salemstate.edu
978-542-6705
Alternate Contact: Edward (Ted) Maney
Northeastern Massachusetts Aquaculture Center
Cat Cove Marine Laboratory
Salem State University
352 Lafayette Street
Salem, MA 01970
tmaney@salemstate.edu
978-542-6249
Site Proposed Location
The project is proposed in the Atlantic Ocean on the outer continental shelf 8.5 miles off Cape Ann,
Massachusetts and occupies a 1.44 million square foot area (33 Acres) around center point 42°41.000’ N -
70°27.000’ W (42.683333 N -70.45 W).
Corner Coordinates:
Longitude West Latitude North
70.452603° 42.685618°
70.447772° 42.685596°
70.447739° 42.681945°
70.452565° 42.681960°
Supplemental information for permit application (NAE-2012-1598 NEMAC Aquaculture) submitted the
US Army Corps of Engineers New England District.
20 December 2012
Second Revision January 2014
Third Revision 1 August 2014
55 Pages
9. Permitting Concerns
Impacts To Current Fisheries
• Minimal impact to established fisheries
– Vessel Trip Reports (NOAA/NMFS)
Navigation
• USCG Navigation Safety Risk Assessment (NSRA) required to determine
possible impacts to vessel traffic and set conditions to assure navigation
safety.
Endangered Species Protection
Essential Fish Habitats
National Marine Sanctuaries
• Not Likely to Adversely Affect (NLTAA) determination desired.
Environmental Protection Agency
• Water quality issues
Federal Consistency – State Agencies
• Review by NOAA Ocean Service Office of Ocean and Coastal Resource
Management (OCRM).
10. Permitting Concerns
Endangered Species Protection
• Not Likely to Adversely Affect (NLTAA) determination
desired
– Longline under tension
– break away links on marker lines
– Longline submerged at least 25 ft (surface feeding)
– Bottom clearance at least 60 ft (bottom feeding)
– Mussel grow lines less than 26 ft (8M)
– Report observations
– Frequent site visits
– No reported entanglements in other NE shellfish farms
11. Permitting Concerns
Navigation Safety
• The header ropes and submerged floats are submerged
to a minimal depth of 50ft.
• All surface buoys have breakaway links installed and
configured to be in compliance with 50 CFR 229.32.
• The mussel farm is properly charted though National
Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) prior to
any installation of gear.
• A notice of the mussel farm is advertised in the Coast
Guard Local Notice to Mariners at least 30 days prior to
the installation of gear.
• The site corners are clearly marked with non-lateral
lighted Private Aids to Navigation.
12. Army Corps of Engineers (ACOE) permit
(NAE-2012-1598 NEMAC Aquaculture)
• Issued January 2015: established a commercial
scale (33 acre) offshore mussel farm 7 nautical
miles off the coast of Cape Ann Massachusetts
(NAE-2012-1598 NEMAC Aquaculture).
• Conditions of permit allow the establishment of
up to 3-longlines as a pilot study to determine
feasibility and any possible habitat or protected
species interactions.
14. Project Goals
• Establish pilot study of 3-longlines.
– Demonstrate feasibility
– Confirm “Not Likely to Adversely Affect any Endangered
or Protected Species”
• Submit for Permit Modification for site commercial
buildout of 32 longlines.
• Expand to develop “incubator farm” to encourage
and train potential farmers in offshore shellfish
aquaculture.
• Rationale: NOAA Marine Aquaculture Strategic Plan
2016 - 2020
19. Establishing the First
Shellfish Aquaculture
Farm in Federal Waters
on the Atlantic Coast
• September 2016 Began
setting up longline
• 8 October 2016 Set out
3 – 15 ft. growlines with
1 – 3ft measured sock
• 13 September 2017
First Harvest
(Experimental)
20. Establishing the First
Shellfish Aquaculture
Farm in Federal Waters
on the Atlantic Coast
• 15 October 2018 - Second
Experimental Harvest of 250 lbs
• Tested for PSP toxins by MA
DMF
21. Mussels at Harvest
• Grow as well as coastally
(Faster?)
• Depth is not an issue
• Minimal fouling – Ectopleura
hydroid only
• Feed year round
22. Growth
Measurements
• Mussels grow an
average of
4.5mm/month
• Harvest size (55mm) in
10 – 12 months
• 32 - 46 Average
Condition Index (CI)
• (Wet Meat /Shell) x
100
23. Issues
Wild SeedAlexandrium fundyense Blooms
Mussels are sampled by MA DMF
High PSP toxin counts throughout July 2017
Below threshold 2018
Photo Credit: Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution
Marine Mammal and other Protected Species
Interactions? Header Line Settlement
24. Longline Integrity
• 3 major storm events (max waves recorded at
Jeffrey’s Ledge)
– September 2017 Hurricane Jose
• 25 ft (7.7m)
– January 4, 2018 Bomb Cyclone
• 48 ft (14.7M)
– March 3, 2018
• 27ft (8.2m)
• No movement of longline or loss of mussels
25. What’s
Next
• NOAA S-K funding 2018 – 2020
– Monitor for protected species
interactions
• Hydrophone
• Surface Time Lapse video
– Workshops and interested
participants
– Deploy 2 more longlines – Summer
2019
– Fully stock longlines to determine
harvest yields/processing –
Commercial Harvest in 2019
– Spat collection/hatchery seed
– Work with MA DMF and ISSP for
Shellfish Toxicity and Safe Handling
protocols for offshore shellfish
aquaculture.
– 2020 Permit renewal to build out to
commercial scale (32 Longlines)
28. Acknowledgements
• Mark Fregeau, Project Co-PI
• Captain Bill Lee, FV Ocean
Reporter, Rockport MA
• Captain Steve Fritch
• SSU Student Assistants
• Legal Sea Foods – Industry
Partner and Financial
Support
• NOAA S-K Funding 2018 –
2020
• https://www.facebook.com/
NEMACmussels/
Editor's Notes
September 5, 2012
Conference Call with ACOE, NOAA (Aquaculture, Sanctuaries, Marine Fisheries, Protected Species), EPA, MA DMF, CZM about concerns and requirement of environmental impact report. Determined that report was necessary and MA CZM to also request Federal Consistency.
This report includes detailed information on the biological assessment of the proposed action, detailing how the agency action [applicant action] affects the species and critical habitat (Sec 7 (b)(3)(A)).
The header ropes and submerged floats are submerged to a minimal depth of 50ft.
All surface buoys have breakaway links installed and configured to be in compliance with 50 CFR 229.32.
The mussel farm is properly charted though National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) prior to any installation of gear.
A notice of the mussel farm is advertised in the Coast Guard Local Notice to Mariners at least 30 days prior to the installation of gear.
The site corners are clearly marked with non-lateral lighted Private Aids to Navigation.
Permit Application in 2012
Extensive Biological Impact Report
Compare with Catalina Sea Ranch