This new chapter includes policies, standards and procedures for how the State will move forward with renewable ocean energy within our Territorial Sea (0-3 nautical miles). The process for developing this plan was the result of years of public engagement by a range of stakeholders, community members, and various interests thru an open and transparent public process, read more on the background here. Check out the clean version of Part 5 of the TSP here.
Read the full letter on the approval from NOAA: OR 2014-1 Part 5 TSP Approval Letter
After many years of working on this, Surfrider Foundation chapters and staff are happy to see this plan approved. Oregon continues to be a national leader in our ocean stewardship efforts and this comprehensive plan was the result of a process informed by the best available science and the participation of many community members. The plan and maps provide necessary protections for the important recreation areas that we all enjoy & the sensitive ecological areas and habitats that our critters need to survive. The plan also provides a significant opportunity for the renewable energy industry to move forward within harnessing clean energy as we seek to reduce our dependence on fossil fuels.