Environmental Justice and Indigenous People: Visual Simulations and Future Applications

Visualization Study for Offshore North Carolina

Visualization Study for Offshore North Carolina: Study Drivers

The National Park Service expressed concern for ocean viewshed from Cape Hatteras (CAHA) and Cape Lookout (CALO) National Seashores. Inconsistency in visual simulations from the same distances and viewing heights BOEM and NPS worked together to create a mutually agreeable SOW

Key NPS Resources

Expansive, unobstructed ocean views Pristine night sky CAHA and CALO are among the least light-polluted environments on the East Coast. Both Seashores offer astronomy programs. Four iconic lighthouses Cape Hatteras (NHL), Cape Lookout, Bodie Island, and Ocracoke Diverse recreational opportunities in a remote setting

NC Visual Simulation Results

Under clear conditions, turbines visible at 20 nm Greatest impacts to night skies Atmospheric and lighting conditions greatly impact visibility Available online at http://www.boem.gov/RenewableEnergy-Program/State-Activities/NC/Offshore-NorthCarolina-Visualization-Study.aspx

Video Simulations

http://www.boem.gov/Renewable-EnergyProgram/State-Activities/NC/Long-Point-CampsMorning.aspx#5

Rhode Island and Massachusetts Visual Simulation Study

Results from NC Visual Simulation study led to need for additional simulations from sensitive areas Opportunity to conduct visual simulations from Tribal sites

Rhode Island and Massachusetts Visual Simulation Study

BOEM contacted the Wampanoag Tribe of Gay Head (Aquinnah) as part of ongoing government-togovernment consultations
Confirmed that it would be OK for BOEM to access and simulate sites Inquired if Tribe wanted additional sites simulated
Additional sites added at Tribes request

Additional Sites Requested by Tribe

Next Steps
Visual simulations are being used to improve the planning process and inform stakeholders and decision-makers
Visual Simulation Open Houses Interagency briefings

Provide BOEM with a better idea of potential visual impacts on cultural resources
Allow for improved understanding of stakeholder concerns

Questions?

Brian Krevor Environmental Protection Specialist Office of Renewable Energy Programs, Environment Branch for Renewable Energy Bureau of Ocean Energy Management 381 Eldon Street, HM 1328 Herndon, VA 20170 Office (703) 787-1346 Fax (703) 787-1708 brian.krevor@boem.gov