Kennedy Orders CDC Probe Into Offshore Wind Farms

There is potentially a lot at stake for the City of New Bedford, its rich fishing industry, and offshore wind power development. While some believe fishing and support for offshore wind can coexist in the same port city, others are not so sure.

Kennedy Calls for Federal Review

Bloomberg reported that the U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has instructed the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to investigate the potential harms of offshore wind farms, some proposed and some under construction off the coast of Massachusetts and elsewhere in the Northeast.

The CDC's National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health is reportedly examining the potential impacts of offshore wind development on human health, the environment and the fishing industry.

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According to the industry publication Home Market Intelligence Wind News, "The office of the U.S. Surgeon General is also said to be involved in the initiative, with several key figures briefed personally by Kennedy."

A 2022 Sierra Club report indicated the effects of offshore wind development on marine life are mainly negative.

New Bedford’s Role in Offshore Wind

The Port of New Bedford is a "crucial hub for the U.S. offshore wind industry, primarily through the New Bedford Marine Commerce Terminal," according to Marine Safety Consultants, Inc.

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Fishermen Divided Over the Industry’s Future

The New Bedford fishing industry appears divided on the question of offshore wind development.

Opponents are concerned about the potential loss of access to fishing grounds, particularly scallop-harvesting areas, navigational safety issues, and environmental impacts. Others say the new industry provides jobs and economic opportunities.

The Trump Administration has long opposed offshore wind development and continues to pursue an energy plan that relies more on fossil fuels.

What the CDC Investigation Could Mean

The CDC and other studies could help to determine the future of the offshore wind industry and what role, if any, New Bedford will continue to play.

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