Windmills and sailboats on the ocean
Beyond the welcome advantages of securing a clean renewable energy resource, how will this impact our boating lifestyle? ECONOMIC OPPORTUNITIES Boaters benefit from healthy coastal communities.The offshore wind industry is poised to create numerous jobs. Each project will result in construction, manufacturing, installation, operations and management opportunities. Also, wind farms attract tourism. A recent University of Rhode Island study found a 19% increase in Airbnb leases since Block Island Wind Farm was established. Tourists visit the massive turbines by
boat or on the Block Island Ferry. Coastal communities could see renovations or expansions of local ports to create capable support for vessels used to build and install turbines. BENEFITS FOR FISHING Commercial and recreational fishermen are on the front lines when any industry or structures involve our waterways. Experienced fishermen have a deep understanding of the marine environment, often playing an important role in monitoring its health. Ongoing studies of current offshore wind farms and their effect on recreational fishing continues to note positive results.The turbine bases
The turbine bases function as artificial reefs.
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SPRING 2022
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