On Aug.15, 2023, after extensive engagement with ocean users, tribes, federal and state agency partners, and stakeholders, BOEM announced the identification of two draft Wind Energy Areas (WEAs) located off the coast of southern Oregon. The two draft WEAs reflect changes based on extensive feedback received since April 2022 when an initial Oregon Call Area was released for public comment.
A 60-day public comment period is currently underway, during which BOEM seeks additional feedback on the two draft WEAs before any formal designation of final WEAs off the coast of Oregon is made. BOEM has scheduled several public meetings to outline information used to inform the draft WEAs and to present next steps in BOEM’s offshore wind leasing area identification process.
We hope you can join us. All times are Pacific:
Virtual Oregon Intergovernmental Renewable Energy Task Force Meeting
Monday, Sept. 18, 2023; 9:00 a.m. – 2:00p.m.
Registration link is posted on BOEM’s website.Informational Fishing Webinar (fishing data focus):
Thursday, Sept. 21, 2023: 5:00 pm – 8:00 p.m.
Registration link to be posted on BOEM’s website soon.In-person public meetings:
Gold Beach, Oregon
Tuesday, Sept. 26, 2023; 4:00p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Event Center at the Beach Docia Room
29392 Ellensburg AvenueCoos Bay, Oregon
Wednesday, Sept. 27, 2023; 4:00p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Coos Bay Public Library, Myrtlewood Room
525 Anderson AvenueBrookings, Oregon
Thursday, Sept. 28, 2023; 4:00p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Southwest Oregon Community College - Curry Campus, Commons Room
96082 Lone Ranch Pkwy
BOEM will accept public comments at the in-person and virtual meetings. Comments received during the comment period will inform potential designation of final WEAs for further analysis and review for possible offshore wind energy leasing. If final WEAs are designated, BOEM will conduct a review under the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) for potential leasing, including site characterization and site assessment activities. The NEPA process includes multiple public input opportunities.
Additional information, including registration and details on how to submit written comments on the draft WEAs can be found on BOEM’s webpage at www.boem.gov/Oregon.
-- BOEM --
The Department of the Interior’s Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM) is responsible for America’s offshore energy and mineral resources. The bureau promotes energy independence, environmental protection and economic development through responsible, science-based management of energy and mineral resources on the U.S. Outer Continental Shelf.