Offshore wind energy can be thought of as three distinct projects: the construction of offshore wind turbines, the actual operation and generation of electricity, and the transmission of that electricity across California. The Humboldt Bay Harbor, Recreation, and Conservation District is poised to play a major role in offshore wind turbine construction and is planning improvements to create a port designed specifically to build these large floating turbines. 

The Harbor District has released a "Notice of Preparation"—the initial step in the CEQA process for analyzing environmental impacts from the port redevelopment. Luis Neuner of EPIC, Jen Kalt of Humboldt Baykeeper, and Caroline Griffith of the Northcoast Environmental Center join the show to discuss their thoughts on the initial designs. 

More info:

• The Harbor District’s Notice of Preparation of Draft Environmental Impact Report is the earliest phase of environmental review in which the public can raise issues to be analyzed. Written comments are due by 5 pm on Aug. 3. Submit via email to Rob Holmlund at [email protected].
• Humboldt Harbor District Officials Talk Port Development As Offshore Wind Efforts Ramp Up by Isabella Vanderheiden, Lost Coast Outpost

Support the show