Would the proposed Humboldt offshore wind project increase vessel traffic?

The proposed Humboldt offshore wind project would likely increase local vessel traffic. Vessels would bring offshore wind turbine components to the proposed Humboldt Bay Offshore Wind Heavy Lift Marine Terminal Project (1) from around the country and world for final integration (the individual turbine components being combined into a complete, operational turbine). In addition, tow vessels would periodically be towing the completed turbines out to sea for installation and back to the bay for maintenance. This would significantly increase vessel traffic in Wigi (2)/Humboldt Bay and off the Humboldt coast, which currently have relatively little vessel traffic. Potential impacts to oyster and seaweed producers in Humboldt Bay are likely to increase with more vehicle traffic. (4)

Wind turbine blades on a ship in New Bedford, Massachusetts. Image courtesy of Tom Wheeler / EPIC

A floating wind turbine and various vessels off the coast of the United Kingdom. Source: NREL (3)

References​

1. Humboldt Bay Harbor, Recreation, and Conservation District. (2024). Humboldt Bay Offshore Wind Heavy Lift Marine Terminal Project. https://humboldtbay.org/humboldt-bay-offshore-wind-heavy-lift-marine-terminal-project-3 

2. Wiyot Tribe. (n.d.). Wiyot Placename Video. www.wiyot.us/162/Wiyot-Placename-Video

3. Musial, W. (2023, May 10). Floating Offshore Wind Technology. National Renewable Energy Laboratory. www.boem.gov/sites/default/files/documents/renewable-energy/state-activities/Musial-Floating-Wind-Technology.pdf

4. North Coast Offshore WInd. (2024) How would the proposed Humboldt offshore wind project affect aquaculture and mariculture in Wigi/Humboldt Bay? https://www.northcoastoffshorewind.org/faq-aquaculture-impacts