Collaborative Efforts to Establish a Fisheries Compensation Fund
BrownGreer and the Carbon Trust are excited to announce their selection to design and develop a regional fisheries mitigation program. This initiative aims to provide essential financial support to the commercial and recreational for-hire fishing communities affected by offshore wind developments along the East Coast.
In recent years, eleven states have collaborated closely, involving input from both the fishing community and offshore wind developers. This teamwork has been pivotal in reaching a significant milestone toward protecting fishing interests while facilitating renewable energy growth. BrownGreer and the Carbon Trust are determined to engage thoroughly with all stakeholders throughout the program’s development phase.
Orran Brown, Jr., a partner at BrownGreer, expressed pride in their role, stating, "We are honored to have been selected alongside the Carbon Trust to serve various stakeholders, including developers and fishing communities. As neutral administrators, our focus is on finding the best solutions that benefit everyone involved in this groundbreaking initiative."
Stephanie Cooper, Undersecretary for Environment in the Massachusetts Executive Office of Energy & Environmental Affairs, emphasized the need for a regional fund administrator for fisheries mitigation, recognizing that it will simplify compensation processes critical for both the economy and the livelihoods of fishers. She acknowledged the collaborative commitment from states and fishing industries and eagerly anticipates future progress.
Doreen M. Harris, President and CEO of New York Energy Research and Development Authority, highlighted the importance of working collaboratively with coastal states to responsibly deploy offshore wind technologies. Protecting marine resources while supporting marine ecosystems is essential for a sustainable future. She emphasized the valuable insights the Regional Fisheries Administrator will provide as they work to mitigate risks within the industry.
Shawn M. LaTourette, Commissioner of New Jersey's Department of Environmental Protection, remarked on the significance of ensuring adequate compensation for New Jersey's fishing industry, which is vital to the state's economy and cultural heritage. The selection of a Regional Fund Administrator after three years of collective efforts is a pivotal moment in enforcing a fair and consistent compensation approach.
Meanwhile, Josh Kurtz, Secretary of the Maryland Department of Natural Resources, expressed that Maryland is committed to aligning its growing offshore wind energy sector with the fishing industry’s needs. He conveyed confidence that the Regional Fund Administrator would establish an equitable claims process benefitting fisheries across the Atlantic region.
As leaders of this project, BrownGreer and the Carbon Trust are keen on implementing a transparent engagement strategy. They plan to establish a Design Oversight Committee (DOC) and a For-Hire Committee (FHC) to gather guidance and insights from various parties, including fishing stakeholders and offshore wind developers, ensuring all voices are heard during policy development.
The DOC’s Primary Members from the commercial fishing sector include notable individuals such as Hank Soule, Vince Balzano, and Joe Gilbert, while the Alternate Members comprise Beth Casoni, Jerry Leeman, and Bonnie Brady. Representing offshore wind interests are members Brian Krevor, Emily Rochon, and Rick Robins.
On the recreational fishing side, the FHC's Primary Members include figures like Rick Bellavance and Bob Rush, with Renee Zobel representing the states. The structure will also include offshore wind representatives, decisions pending finalization.
Mike Waine, Atlantic Fisheries Policy Director of the American Sportfishing Association, praised the charter boat captains appointed to the recreational for-hire committee for their extensive knowledge and commitment to the broader fishing community’s compensation and mitigation needs.
BrownGreer, a Virginia-based claims resolution company, has a proven track record of managing complex claims administration programs, having resolved approximately 400,000 claims during significant settlements, including for economic losses in the fishing sector.
The Carbon Trust excels at engaging diverse stakeholders, facilitating consensus on renewable energy projects while considering environmental impacts. Their expertise in stakeholder collaboration is crucial in navigating offshore wind projects across the United States.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the fisheries compensation fund?
The fund aims to provide financial compensation to fishing communities affected by offshore wind developments, ensuring their economic stability.
Who are the key partners in this initiative?
The primary partners are BrownGreer and the Carbon Trust, each contributing their expertise in claims administration and stakeholder engagement.
Why is stakeholder engagement important for this program?
Engaging stakeholders ensures that the interests and concerns of all parties, including fishermen and developers, are considered during program development.
How will the process of compensation work?
A structured and equitable claims process will be developed to simplify compensation for impacted parties, with oversight from the newly established committees.
What role do the committees play in this project?
The committees provide guidance and insights to ensure the compensation fund effectively addresses the needs of the fishing community and supports sustainable offshore wind development.
