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

Cashman Dredging & Marine Contracting Co., LLC (CDMC) supports the BOEM's evaluation of offshore mineral development in Virginia. They argue that the industry has the technical expertise to conduct responsible dredging and that domestic mineral recovery can enhance national security and economic resilience.

Captain Tom Burkett, owner of Seasider Charters LLC, opposes the proposed commercial mineral leasing offshore Virginia. He argues that mineral extraction would destroy marine habitats, harm fisheries, and negatively impact his ecotourism business which relies on a pristine coastal environment.

McQuilling Renewables supports the BOEM planning process and suggests conducting a maritime traffic assessment to identify potential conflicts between offshore mining and commercial/recreational marine uses. The company offers its expertise in marine supply chain solutions and previous experience conducting similar assessments for other offshore energy projects.

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.

Wetstone US Ventures, Inc. supports the proposed commercial leasing for OCS minerals offshore Virginia and advocates for offering a full range of minerals in broad lease areas. They recommend specific lease structures, including graduated royalty rates, a 20-year primary term with production-based continuation, and clear regulatory timelines to encourage investment.

Ocean Harvesters, a commercial fishing company, expresses concern regarding the potential impact of offshore mineral mining on its menhaden fishery. They state they cannot provide specific precautions without more details on mining operations but emphasize the area's importance to their business and express a willingness to engage with BOEM in future developments.

The commenter opposes the proposed mineral extraction on the Continental Shelf due to concerns about the destruction of marine biological resources and the risk to historical and archaeological shipwrecks. They argue for a thorough fisheries impact assessment, the establishment of a 1,000-yard buffer around wrecks, and the implementation of a royalty system for mined materials.

The New England Fisherman's Stewardship Association (NEFSA) opposes the proposed mineral mining lease areas offshore Virginia because they overlap with critical summer flounder and black sea bass fishing grounds. They argue that large-scale sand dredging will cause significant habitat destruction, mortality of benthic organisms, and logistical challenges for commercial fishing fleets.

The South Carolina Coastal Conservation League (CCL) opposes the proposed commercial mineral leasing offshore Virginia, citing risks to marine ecosystems, fisheries, and protected species like the North Atlantic right whale. They urge the BOEM to reject the proposal or, at minimum, conduct a comprehensive Programmatic Environmental Impact Statement to evaluate cumulative impacts.