Pasted below is a “Statement on Wave Energy in Oregon” that was recently ratified by Oregon’s chapters and statewide exec council. Please feel free to distribute freely. Over 60 different members and activists provided input and/or review on this document. The statement provides a framework for how Surfrider chapters in Oregon will engage locally on the issue of wave energy development. Thus far, seven different projects have been proposed along the Oregon coast, and Surfrider members are actively engaged in providing input on four of these. To revieve a copy of the statement by email or for more info contact Pete Stauffer pstauffer@surfrider.org
Statement on Wave Energy in Oregon
The Oregon Chapter of Surfrider Foundation recognizes that wave energy may offer important benefits as a renewable source of energy, as well as a cutting-edge industry for coastal communities.
Surfrider also recognizes that there are many questions and concerns about wave energy, including potential impacts to ocean recreation, nearshore ecology, public safety, aesthetics, and fishing access
Statement
Surfers and other recreational ocean users are affected by the development of wave energy in Oregon, and are a key stakeholder group in local and state planning efforts.
Surfrider believes the following principles must be applied when evaluating or planning for potential projects:
• Protect surfing and other ocean recreation opportunities by ensuring that project sites do not impact or overlap with priority recreational areas
• Consider impacts to the environment through comprehensive assessments and application of best available science
• Ensure public safety through designs standards and development of emergency response plans
• Require baseline data and frequent monitoring to quantify impacts to the environment and threats to public safety
• Evaluate the impact of EMFs (electromagnetic fields) on the behavior of fishes, sharks, and marine mammals
• Consider fishing and other existing uses of proposed project areas to assess lost opportunities and evaluate trade-offs
• Proceed incrementally and cautiously to ensure that impacts from one project are understood before proceeding with additional projects
• Initiate comprehensive planning for Oregon’s ocean ecosystem to ensure an appropriate balance between emerging industrial uses and conservation
• Employ adaptive management to ensure that new information is applied to assess needs for modification, mitigation, and/or removal.
Surfrider Foundation is an environmental organization dedicated to the protection and enjoyment of the world’s oceans, waves, and beaches. Our membership in Oregon includes surfers, windsurfers, fishermen, kayakers and other ocean users.