Request for Information and Interest: Commercial Leasing for Outer Continental Shelf Minerals Offshore the Commonwealth of Virginia

The Responsible Offshore Science Alliance (ROSA) submits comments providing guidance on how to conduct scientifically robust monitoring and fisheries coordination for potential mineral leasing. They do not take a position on whether the leasing should proceed but emphasize using existing offshore wind research and engaging directly with the fishing industry.

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.

The Nature Conservancy expresses significant concerns regarding the potential for mineral extraction off the coast of Virginia, citing risks to the ecological integrity of the Virginia Coast Reserve and surrounding marine environments. They argue that activities like dredging could disrupt sediment exchange, degrade water quality, and harm critical habitats for migratory birds, endangered species, and commercial fisheries.

The Virginia Waterman's Association, a trade association representing commercial fishermen, opposes the proposed commercial leasing for minerals due to potential environmental damage and economic harm to the fishing industry. They request detailed sediment modeling, cumulative impact evaluations, and the establishment of a fisheries mitigation and compensation program.

+Nature argues that the proposed Virginia offshore mineral leasing should not proceed until a framework of "Principles for Responsible Stewardship" is established and satisfied. They advocate for prioritizing the protection of marine ecosystems as "living infrastructure" and demand that the public interest, circular economy principles, and scientific integrity be demonstrated before any extraction occurs.

The Shellfish Growers of Virginia, a trade association representing the state's shellfish aquaculture industry, opposes the proposed commercial leasing for minerals offshore Virginia due to concerns over sediment transport and chemical contamination. They request a larger buffer zone from the coast, detailed sediment analysis, and a mitigation plan to protect their multi-million dollar industry and the Virginia Coast Biosphere Reserve.

Odyssey Marine Exploration, Inc. supports the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management's (BOEM) Request for Information regarding a potential mineral lease sale offshore Virginia. The company argues that developing domestic heavy mineral sands (HMS) will strengthen national security and supply chains using established dredging technologies.

Several members of the United States Congress (Senators and Representatives) are requesting a 30-day extension of the public comment period for the BOEM's Request for Information on commercial leasing for minerals offshore Virginia. They argue that the current 30-day window is insufficient given the complexity of the topics, the size of the lease area, and the novel nature of the RFI.

The Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC), representing a coalition of environmental organizations, is requesting a 30-day extension of the public comment period for the RFI on commercial leasing for offshore minerals in Virginia. They argue that the current 30-day window is insufficient for stakeholders to review the complex information requested and to consider the potential impacts on the marine environment and coastal economy.