Comment from Chincoteague Fisheries, Inc

Summary: Chincoteague Fisheries, Inc, a Virginia-based seafood processor and shipper, supports the administration's goals for energy independence and domestic mineral production but expresses significant concern regarding the environmental and economic impacts of offshore mining on the commercial fishing industry. They request that BOEM conduct detailed scientific studies, economic analyses, and develop mitigation and compensation programs to protect the seafood industry from sediment disturbance and habitat loss.