Wigi/Humboldt Bay is home to a thriving aquaculture industry. Oysters and seaweed are farmed in the bay, and the oyster seed industry has exploded in the past decade or so, with many of the "seeds" (tiny oyster) grown on floating docks within or near the proposed Heavy Lift Terminal. The proposed Humboldt Bay Offshore Wind Heavy Lift Marine Terminal Project would likely displace or impact some of these businesses.

The main concerns regarding impacts to fish are related to electromagnetic fields (EMFs) and impacts to the upwelling system. There are also potential benefits to fish from the offshore wind farms. On the East Coast, offshore wind turbine platforms are acting as artificial reefs that enhance fish habitat. Some researchers have also theorized that, by reducing fishing, offshore wind farms can also benefit fish species in ways similar to a marine protected area.

According to the National Oceanic & Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), the construction and operation of wind turbines could negatively affect commercial, recreational, and Tribal fishing in a variety of ways.

Potential impacts of offshore wind energy development and operation on whales, seals, and other marine mammals include injury due to physical interactions with associated vessel traffic, entanglement, response to increased underwater noise, displacement from foraging or migratory habitat, and impacts associated with port development and expansion. The potential impacts on different species will vary depending on the location and operation status of OSW development and operat

Relative to onshore and near-shore habitats, there are currently thought to be fewer bird and bat species that live in offshore ocean waters, and studies are underway to better understand use of the area and potential risks associated with offshore wind.