Wave energy makes topic list for fish conference
As the United States looks for ways to reduce its dependence on fossil fuels the Oregon coast is gaining more attention as a potential source of renewable energy.
Questions about this new technology revolve around the effect of large anchors and other structures on marine habitat and species composition, an ODFW press release said. There also are concerns about entanglements and the effects of electromagnetic fields on fish and other animals.
Don is the near-shore assistant project leader for ODFW’s Marine Resources Program and is a member of team of stakeholders addressing potential environmental impacts of wave energy technology.
The conference will bring together 40 speakers who are scheduled to present the latest findings in fish-related research at the conference Sept. 11-13 at the Oregon 4-H Conference and Education Center eight miles west of Salem.
A New Jersey company is already pursuing a permit to set up wave energy facilities off the Oregon coast, and others are contemplating it.
Oregon State University is studying wave energy at its Hatfield Marine Science Center and plans to expand that research. Gov. Ted Kulongoski wants to promote wave energy in an environmentally responsible manner and has directed state agencies to amend Oregon’s Territorial Sea Plan, which governs activities in the ocean within three miles of the coast.
Advance registration is required at a cost of $15 for individuals, $20 for families and $5 for students. Registration forms are available on the ODFW Web site at www.dfw.state.or.us/STEP.
For more information, contact Debbi Farrell by phone at 503-947-6211 or by e-mail at Debbi.L.Farrell@state.or.us.
