Wisdom Through the Ages [PHIL-OSOPHY]

"Pan Metron Ariston" is a quote in ancient Greek, coined in the 6th century BC, and means "Everything in moderation." This is a useful standard to apply toward offshore wind and New England's commercial fishing industry.

For too long, fishermen have felt tossed aside in the wave toward offshore wind development. On past radio shows, I've heard fishing industry complaints that included being virtually shut out of the offshore discussions to worries about towing fishing nets through the wind farms. Both commercial and recreational boaters are anxious about the general safety navigating the waters of wind farms and the disruption of marine life.

Members of New England's seafood industry had the opportunity to sit and chat with Interior Secretary David Bernhardt recently about the Vineyard Wind project and the fears they have with the overall footprint of offshore wind on their livelihoods.

What I like about Bernhardt is he's committed to listening to both industries. He's not looking to "whack" either side and plans to pursue a direction that will benefit both. In other words, he's offering a fair-minded balance that's been missing in the overall talks since the start.

The fishing industry is not anti-wind, and neither am I or the U.S. Interior Secretary. But, like me, he's eager to pursue an approach sustainable for everybody.

Phil Paleologos is the host of The Phil Paleologos Show on 1420 WBSM New Bedford. He can be heard weekdays from 6 a.m. to 10 a.m. Contact him at phil@wbsm.com and follow him on Twitter @PhilPaleologos. The opinions expressed in this commentary are solely those of the author.