www.coastal.ca.gov

CALL TO ACTION:

1. Rather than having a full-fledged hearing on Permit No. 9-23-0874-W, for Equinor Wind US LLC to conduct their site surveys in nearshore waters, the Executive Director is allowing the item to be a Coastal Development Permit de minimis waiver. Which means the Executive Director has made a determination that permit No. 9-23-0874-W, for Equinor Wind US LLC to conduct their site surveys will have no adverse effect on coastal resources. See this reference from the Coastal Act - Coastal Act section 30624.7 “A proposed development is de minimis if the executive director determines that it involves no potential for any adverse effect, either individually or cumulatively, on coastal resources….”

   You are encouraged to register to speak at the meeting on Friday, but also strongly encouraged to submit written comments on this item.

   Submit written comments by going to www.coastal.ca.gov

   Click on Monthly Meeting Agenda, go to Friday May 10, 2024 and scroll down to Item 7 - Energy, Ocean Resources & Federal Consistency and hit the “Submit Comment” button. Provide your input on the overall issue of site surveys and/or the concerns with this being a de minimis waiver. Written comments need to be submitted by 5p on Friday May 3rd!

2. Here is a draft letter for an idea on what to submit:

   Dear Commissioners:

   The California Coastal Commission is responsible for protecting California resources. Fish and Fishing rights are highly protected in California. Fish habitat is highly protected in California waters. 

   Equinor seeks a de minimis waiver for high resolution geographic (HRG) site survey work through critical habitat that affects fish, fishing rights, and habitat. How can Equinor qualify for a de minimis waiver?

   SB 286 legislation and the California Coastal Commission’s 7th Condition of its Consistency Determination requires a working group made up of fishermen, wind developers, and State agency representatives to develop a Statewide template for “best practices for site surveys.”  No surveys should be allowed until the 7c working group is finished and until comprehensive biological and independent acoustic monitoring, and comprehensive mitigation for impacted fishermen are established. 

   Equinor must know all of this and appears to be going around CA law. Do not cooperate with them. Vote no at this time to support our marine resources.

   Sincerely,