650 R.I. Code R. 650-RICR-20-05-11.9

Current through December 3, 2024

Section 650-RICR-20-05-11.9 - General Policies

A. Ocean SAMP policies and regulatory standards represent actions the CRMC must take to uphold its regulatory responsibilities mandated to them by the Rhode Island General Assembly and the CZMA to achieve the Ocean SAMP goals and principles described in the Introduction Chapter. The "General Policies" in § 11.9 of this Part are policies the CRMC applies through its various management and regulatory functions, but the General Policies are not "enforceable policies" for purposes of the federal CZMA federal consistency provision (16 U.S.C. § 1456 and 15 C.F.R. Part 930). For CZMA federal consistency purposes the General Policies are advisory only and cannot be used as the basis for a CRMC CZMA federal consistency concurrence or objection. However, for state permitting purposes, offshore developments proposed to be sited in state waters are bound by both the General Policies (§ 11.9 of this Part) and regulatory standards (§ 11.10 of this Part) listed herein, The Policies of the Ocean SAMP. The "regulatory standards" in § 11.10 of this Part are enforceable policies for purposes of the federal CZMA federal consistency provision (16 U.S.C. § 1456 and 15 C.F.R. Part 930). For CZMA federal consistency purposes the CRMC shall use the regulatory standards, in addition to other applicable federally approved RICRMP enforceable policies, as the basis for a CRMC CZMA federal consistency concurrence or objection. These general and regulatory policies for cultural and historic resources, fisheries, recreation and tourism, and marine transportation promote and enhance existing uses and honor existing activities (§ 11.6(C)(3) of this Part). Ecology, global climate change, and other future uses information and policies provide a context for basing all decisions on the best available science, while fostering a functioning ecosystem that is both ecologically sound and economically beneficial (§ 11.6(C) (4) of this Part). Renewable energy and offshore development policies and regulatory standards ensure there is a rigorous review for all ocean development so that the Council meets its public trust responsibilities. The Ocean SAMP also provides thoughtful direction to encourage marine-based economic development that meets the aspirations of local communities and is consistent with and complementary to the state's overall economic development, social, and environmental needs and goals (§ 11.6(B)(3) of this Part). All chapters work towards establishing frameworks to coordinate decision-making between state and federal management agencies and the people who use the Ocean SAMP region (§ 11.6(B)(4) of this Part), developing in a transparent manner (§ 11.6(C) (1) of this Part), and promoting adaptive management (§ 11.6(C)(5) of this Part). All of the Ocean SAMP policies are important to ensure that the Ocean SAMP region is managed in a manner that meets the needs of the people of Rhode Island, while protecting and restoring our natural environment for future generations.

B. § 11.9 of this Part presents all Ocean SAMP general policies, while § 11.10 of this Part integrates the regulatory standards into a regulatory process that ensures the Council's ability to uphold its mandatory requirements.

C. Any assent holder of a CRMC-approved offshore development, as defined in §11.10.1(A) of this Part, shall:

1. Design the project and conduct all activities in a manner that ensures safety and shall not cause undue harm or damage to natural resources, including their physical, chemical, and biological components to the extent practicable; and take measures to prevent unauthorized discharge of pollutants including marine trash and debris into the offshore environment.

2. Submit requests, applications, plans, notices, modifications, and supplemental information to the Council as required;

3. Acknowledge, in writing, any oral request or notification made by the Council, within three (3) business days and follow up in writing on such request or notification within a reasonable period of time as determined jointly by the assent holder and CRMC considering the circumstances;

4. Comply with the terms, conditions, and provisions of all reports and notices submitted to the Council, and of all plans, revisions, and other Council approvals, as provided in § 11.10.5 of this Part;

5. Make all applicable payments on time;

6. Conduct all activities authorized by the assent in a manner consistent with the provisions of this document, the Rhode Island Coastal Resources Management Program, and all relevant federal and state statutes and regulations;

7. Compile, retain, and make available to the Council within the time specified by the Council any information related to the site assessment, design, and operations of a project; and

8. Respond to requests from the Council in a timeframe specified by the Council.

D. Administrative processing fee: For large-scale offshore developments, underwater cables, and other projects as determined by the Council, the CRMC may asses the applicant with an administrative processing fee to help defray costs to conduct the CZMA federal consistency review, including the mitigation negotiations. This fee shall be $20,000. The Council cannot issue a conditional concurrence or an objection for failure to pay the fee.

11.9.1Ecology

A. The Council recognizes that the preservation and restoration of ecological systems shall be the primary guiding principle upon which environmental alteration of coastal resources will be measured. Proposed activities shall be designed to avoid impacts and, where unavoidable impacts may occur those impacts shall be minimized and mitigated.

B. As the Ocean SAMP is an extension and refinement of CRMC's policies for Type 4 multipurpose waters as described in §00-1.2.1(E) of this Chapter, CRMC will encourage a balance among the diverse activities, both traditional and future water dependent uses, while preserving and restoring the ecological systems.

C. The Council recognizes that while all fish habitat is important, spawning and nursery areas are especially critical in providing shelter for these species during the most vulnerable stages of their life cycles. The Council will ensure that proposed activities shall be designed to avoid impacts to these sensitive habitats, and, where unavoidable impacts may occur, those impacts shall be minimized and mitigated. In addition, the Council will give consideration to habitat used by species of concern as defined by the NMFS Office of Protected Resources.

D. Because the Ocean SAMP is located at the convergence of two eco-regions and therefore more susceptible to change, the Council will work with partner federal and state agencies, research institutions, and environmental organizations to carefully manage this area, especially as it relates to the projected effects of global climate change on this rich ecosystem.

E. The Council shall appoint a standing Habitat Advisory Board (HAB) which shall provide advice to the Council on the ecological function, restoration and protection of the marine resources and habitats in the Ocean SAMP area and on the siting, construction, and operation of off shore development in the Ocean SAMP study area and in NOAA-approved geographic location descriptions (GLDs). The HAB shall also provide advice on scientific research and its application to the Ocean SAMP. The HAB is an advisory body to the Council and does not supplant any authority of any federal or state agency responsible for the conservation and restoration of marine habitats. The HAB is defined in § 11.3(G) of this Part. HAB members shall serve four-year terms and shall serve no more than two consecutive terms. The Council shall provide to the HAB a semi-annual status report on Ocean SAMP area marine resources and habitat-related issues and adaptive management of projects in the Ocean SAMP planning area, including but not limited to: protection and restoration of marine resources and habitats, cumulative impacts, climate change, environmental review criteria, siting and performance standards, and marine resources and habitat mitigation and monitoring. The Council shall notify the HAB in writing concerning any project in the Ocean SAMP area. The HAB shall meet not less than semi-annually with the Fishermen's Advisory Board and on an as-needed basis to provide the Council with advice on protection and restoration of marine resources and habitats in the Ocean SAMP areas and potential adverse impacts on marine resources and habitat posed by proposed projects reviewed by the Council. The HAB may also meet regularly to discuss issues related to the latest science of ecosystem-based management in the marine environment and new information relevant to the management of the Ocean SAMP planning area. In addition the HAB may aid the Council and its staff in developing and implementing a research agenda. As new information becomes available and the scientific understanding of the Ocean SAMP planning area evolves, the HAB may identify new areas with unique or fragile physical features, important natural habitats, or areas of high natural productivity for designation by the Council as Areas of Particular Concern or Areas Designated for Preservation.

11.9.2Global Climate Change

A. The Council recognizes that the changes brought by climate change are likely to result in alteration of the marine ecology and human uses affecting the Ocean SAMP area. The Council encourages energy conservation, mitigation of greenhouse gasses and adaptation approaches for management. The Council, therefore, supports the policy of increasing offshore renewable energy production in Rhode Island as a means of mitigating the potential effects of global climate change.

B. The Council shall incorporate climate change planning and adaptation into policy and standards in all areas of its jurisdiction of the Ocean SAMP and its associated land-based infrastructure to proactively plan for and adapt to climate change impacts such as increased storm intensity and temperature change, in addition to accelerated sea level rise. For example, when evaluating Ocean SAMP area projects and uses, the Council will carefully consider how climate change could affect their future feasibility, safety and effectiveness. When evaluating new or intensified existing uses within the Ocean SAMP area, the Council will consider predicted impacts of climate change especially upon sensitive habitats, most notably spawning and nursery grounds, of particular importance to targeted species of finfish, shellfish and crustaceans.

C. The Council will convene a panel of scientists, biannually, to advise on findings of current climate science for the region and the implications for Rhode Island's coastal and offshore regions, as well as the possible management ramifications. The horizon for evaluation and planning needs to include both the short term (10 years) and longer term (50 years). The Science Advisory Panel for Climate Change will provide the Council with expertise on the most current global climate change related science, monitoring, policy, and development design standards relevant to activities within its jurisdiction of the Ocean SAMP and its associated land-based infrastructure to proactively plan for and adapt to climate change impacts such as increased storminess, temperature change, and acidification in addition to accelerated sea level rise. The findings of this Science Advisory Panel will be forwarded on to the legislatively-appointed Rhode Island Climate Change Commission for their consideration.

D. The Council will prohibit those land-based and offshore development projects which based on a sea level rise scenario analysis will threaten public safety or not perform as designed resulting in significant environmental impacts. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has developed and is implementing design and construction standards that consider impacts from sea level rise. These standards and other scenario analyses should be applied to determine sea level rise impacts.

E. The Council supports the application of enhanced building standards in the design phase of rebuilding coastal infrastructure associated with the Ocean SAMP area, including port facilities, docks, and bridges that ships must clear when passing underneath.

F. The Council supports the development of design standards for marine platforms that account for climate change projections on wind speed, storm intensity and frequency, and wave conditions and will work with the U.S. Bureau of Ocean Energy Management, Department of the Interior, Department of Energy, and the Army Corps of Engineers to develop a set of standards that can then be applied in Rhode Island projects. The Council will re-assess coastal infrastructure and seaworthy marine structure building standards periodically not only for sea level rise, but also for other climate changes including more intense storms, increased wave action, and increased acidity in the sea.

G. The Council supports public awareness and interpretation programs to increase public understanding of climate change and how it affects the ecology and uses of the Ocean SAMP area.

11.9.3Cultural and Historic Resources

A. The Council recognizes the rich and historically significant history of human activity within and adjacent to the Ocean SAMP area. These numerous sites and properties, that are located both underwater and onshore, should be considered when evaluating future projects.

B. The Council has a federal obligation as part of its responsibilities under the federal Coastal Zone Management Act to recognize the importance of cultural, historic, and tribal resources within the state's coastal zone, including Rhode Island state waters. It has a similar responsibility under the Rhode Island Historic Preservation Act. The Council will not permit activities that will significantly impact the state's cultural, historic and tribal resources.

C. The Council will engage federal and state agencies, and the Narragansett Indian Tribe's Tribal Historic Preservation Office (THPO), when evaluating the impacts of proposed development on cultural and historic resources. The Rhode Island Historic Preservation and Heritage Commission (RIHPHC) is the State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) for the state of Rhode Island, and is charged with developing historical property surveys for Rhode Island municipalities, reviewing projects that may impact cultural and historic resources, and regulating archaeological assessments on land and in state waters. For other tribes outside of Rhode Island that might be affected by a federal action it is the responsibility of the applicable federal agency to consult with affected tribes.

D. Project reviews will follow the policies outlined in §§ 00-1.2.3 (Areas of Historic and Archaeological Significance) and 00- 1.3.5 of this Chapter (Guidelines for the Protection and Enhancement of the Scenic Value of the Coastal Region) of the State of Rhode Island Coastal Resources Management Program, as amended (Subchapter 00 Part 1 of this Chapter). The standards for the identification of cultural resources and the assessment of potential effects on cultural resources will be in accordance with the National Historic Preservation Act Section 106 regulations, 36 C.F.R. Part 800, Protection of Historic Properties.

E. Historic shipwrecks, archeological or historical sites located within Rhode Island's coastal zone are Areas of Particular Concern (APCs) for the Rhode Island coastal management program. Direct and indirect impacts to these resources must be avoided to the greatest extent possible. Other areas, not noted as APCs, may also have significant archeological sites that could be identified through the permit process. For example, the area at the south end of Block Island waters within the 30 foot depth contour is known to have significant archeological resources. As a result, projects conducted in the Ocean SAMP area may have impacts to Rhode Island's underwater archaeological and historic resources.

F. Archaeological surveys shall be required as part of the permitting process for projects which may pose a threat to Rhode Island's archaeological and historic resources. During the filing phase for state assent, projects needing archaeological surveys will be identified through the joint review process. The survey requirements will be coordinated with the SHPO and, if tribal resources are involved, with the Narragansett THPO.

G. Areas of Particular Concern may require a buffer or setback distance to ensure that development projects avoid or minimize impacts to known or potential historic or archaeological sites. The buffer or setback distance during the permitting process will be determined by the SHPO and if tribal resources are involved, the Narragansett THPO.

H. In addition to general Area of Particular Concern buffer/setback distances around shipwrecks or other submerged cultural resources, the Council reserves the right, based upon recommendations from RIHPHC, to establish protected areas around all submerged cultural resources which meet the criteria for listing on the National Register of Historic Places.

I. Projects conducted in the Ocean SAMP area may have impacts that could potentially affect onshore archaeological, historic, or cultural resources. Archaeological and historical surveys may be required of projects which are reviewed by the joint agency review process. During the filing phase for state assent, projects needing such surveys will be identified and the survey requirement will be coordinated with the SHPO and if tribal resources are involved, with the Narragansett THPO.

J. Guidelines for onshore archaeological assessments in the Ocean SAMP area can be obtained through the RIHPHC in their document, "Performance Standards and Guidelines for Archaeological Projects: Standards for Archaeological Survey" (RIHPHC 2007), or the lead federal agency responsible for reviewing the proposed development. In addition, guidelines for landscape and visual impact assessment in the Ocean SAMP area can be obtained through the lead federal agency responsible for reviewing the proposed development.

11.9.4Commercial and Recreational Fisheries

A. The commercial and recreational fishing industries, and the habitats and biological resources of the ecosystem they are based on, are of vital economic, social, and cultural importance to Rhode Island's fishing ports and communities. Commercial and recreational fisheries are also of great importance to Rhode Island's economy and to the quality of life experienced by both residents and visitors. The Council finds that other uses of the Ocean SAMP area could potentially displace commercial or recreational fishing activities or have other adverse impacts on commercial and recreational fisheries.

B. The Council recognizes that finfish, shellfish, and crustacean resources and related fishing activities are managed by a host of different agencies and regulatory bodies which have jurisdiction over different species and/or different parts of the SAMP area. Entities involved in managing fish and fisheries within the SAMP area include, but are not limited to, the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission, the R.I. Department of Environmental Management, the R.I. Marine Fisheries Council, the NOAA National Marine Fisheries Service, the New England Fishery Management Council, and the Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council. The Council recognizes the jurisdiction of these organizations in fishery management and will work with these entities to protect fisheries resources. The Council will also work in coordination with these entities to protect priority habitat areas.

C. The Council's policy is to protect commercial and recreational fisheries within the Ocean SAMP area, and the 2011 and 2018 GLDs, from the adverse impacts of other uses, while supporting actions to make ongoing fishing practices more sustainable. The Council anticipates that over time there will be improved scientific knowledge of the impacts of fishing on habitats and fish populations. Improvements in more sustainable gear technology, fishing practices, and management tools may improve the state of fisheries resources. A general goal of the Council is to improve the health of the Ocean SAMP area ecosystem and the populations of fish and shellfish it provides. Cooperative research, using the unique skills and expertise of the fishing community, will be a cornerstone to this goal.

D. Commercial and recreational fisheries activities are dynamic, taking place at different places at different times of the year due to seasonal species migrations and other factors. The Council recognizes that fisheries are dynamic, shaped by these seasonal migrations as well as other factors including shifts in the regulatory environment, market demand, and global climate change. The Council further recognizes that the entire Ocean SAMP area is used by commercial and recreational fishermen employing different fishing methods and gear types. Changes in existing uses, intensification of uses, and new uses within the area could cause adverse impacts to these fisheries. Accordingly, the Council shall:

1. In consultation with the Fishermen's Advisory Board, as defined in § 11.3(E) of this Part, identify and evaluate prime fishing areas on an ongoing basis through an adaptive framework.

2. Review any uses or activities that could disrupt commercial or recreational fisheries activities.

E. The Council shall work together with the U.S. Coast Guard, the U.S. Navy, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, NOAA, fishermen's organizations, marine pilots, recreational boating organizations, and other marine safety organizations to promote safe navigation, fishing, and recreational boating activity around and through offshore structures and developments, and along cable routes, during the construction, operation, and decommissioning phases of such projects. The Council will promote and support the education of all mariners regarding safe navigation around offshore structures and developments and along cable routes.

F. Discussions with the U.S. Coast Guard, the U.S. Department of the Interior Bureau of Ocean Energy Management and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers have indicated that no vessel access restrictions are planned for the waters around and through offshore structures and developments, or along cable routes, except for those necessary for navigational safety. Commercial and recreational fishing and boating access around and through offshore structures and developments and along cable routes is a critical means of mitigating the potential adverse impacts of offshore structures on commercial and recreational fisheries and recreational boating. The Council endorses this approach and shall work to ensure that the waters surrounding offshore structures, developments, and cable routes remain open to commercial and recreational fishing, marine transportation, and recreational boating, except for navigational safety restrictions. The Council requests that federal agencies notify the Council as soon as is practicable of any federal action that may affect vessel access around and through offshore structures and developments and along cable routes. The Council will continue to monitor changes to navigational activities around and through offshore developments and along cable routes. Any changes affecting existing navigational activities may be subject to CZMA federal consistency review if the federal agency determines its activity will have reasonably foreseeable effects on the uses or resources of Rhode Island's coastal zone.

G. The Council recognizes that commercial and recreational fishermen from other states, such as the neighboring states of Connecticut, New York, and Massachusetts, often fish in the Ocean SAMP area. The Council also recognizes that many fish species that are harvested in adjacent waters may rely on habitats and prey located within the Ocean SAMP area. Accordingly, the Council will work with neighboring states to ensure that offshore development and other uses of the Ocean SAMP area do not result in significant impacts to the fisheries resources or activities of other states.

H. The Council shall appoint a standing Fishermen's Advisory Board (FAB) which shall provide advice to the Council on the siting and construction of other uses in marine waters. The FAB is an advisory body to the Council that is not intended to supplant any existing authority of any other federal or state agency responsible for the management of fisheries, including but not limited to the Marine Fisheries Council and its authorities set forth in R.I. Gen. Laws § 20-3-1et seq. The FAB is defined in § 11.3(E) of this Part. When there are two members representing a fishing interest, only one vote may be cast on behalf of that interest. If the two members representing that fishery cannot agree on their vote then there shall be no vote for that fishery for the item under consideration. In any vote on a matter, there shall be no more than 7 votes total for RI interests and no more than 3 votes total for MA interests. The FAB members may elect a chair and a vice-chair from amongst its members. In addition the FAB may establish rules governing its members such as a minimum number of meetings each member must attend to maintain standing as a member. FAB members shall serve four-year terms. The Council shall provide to the FAB a semi-annual status report on Ocean SAMP area fisheries related issues, including but not limited to those of which the Council is cognizant in its planning and regulatory activities, and shall notify the FAB in writing concerning any project in the Ocean SAMP area. The FAB shall meet not less than semi-annually with the Habitat Advisory Board and on an as-needed basis to provide the Council with advice on the potential adverse impacts of other uses on commercial and recreational fishermen and fisheries activities, and on issues including, but not limited to, the evaluation and planning of project locations, arrangements, and alternatives; micro-siting (siting of individual wind turbines within an offshore wind farm to identify the best site for each individual structure); access limitations; and measures to mitigate the potential impacts of such projects on the fishery. In addition the FAB may aid the Council and its staff in developing and implementing a research agenda. As new information becomes available and the scientific understanding of the Ocean SAMP planning area evolves, the FAB may identify new areas with unique or fragile physical features, important natural habitats, or areas of high natural productivity for designation by the Council as Areas of Particular Concern or Areas Designated for Preservation.

11.9.5Recreation and Tourism

A. The Council recognizes the economic, historic, and cultural value of marine recreation and tourism activities in the Ocean SAMP area to the state of Rhode Island. The Council's goal is to promote uses of the Ocean SAMP area that do not significantly interfere with marine recreation and tourism activities or values.

B. When evaluating proposed offshore developments, the Council will carefully consider the potential impacts of such activities on marine recreation and tourism uses. Where it is determined that there is a significant impact, the Council may modify or deny activities that significantly detract from these uses.

C. The Council will encourage and support uses of the Ocean SAMP area that enhance marine recreation and tourism activities.

D. The Council recognizes that the waters south of Brenton Point and within the 3-nautical mile boundary surrounding Block Island are heavily-used recreational areas and are commonly used for organized sailboat races and other marine events. The Council encourages and supports the ongoing coordination of race and marine event organizers with the U.S. Coast Guard, the U.S. Navy, and the commercial shipping community to facilitate safe recreational boating in and adjacent to these areas, which include charted shipping lanes and Navy restricted areas (see Ocean SAMP Chapter 7, Marine Transportation, Navigation, and Infrastructure). The Council shall consider these heavily-used recreational areas when evaluating offshore developments in this area. Where it is determined that there is a significant impact, the Council may suitably modify or deny activities that significantly detract from these uses. The Council also recognizes that much of this organized recreational activity is concentrated within the circular sailboat racing areas as depicted in Figure 6 in § 11.10.2(I) of this Part, and accordingly has designated these areas as Areas of Particular Concern. See § 11.10.2 of this Part for requirements associated with Areas of Particular Concern.

E. See §11.9.4(E) of this Part for policy regarding safe navigation around and through offshore structures and developments and along cable routes.

F. See §11.9.4(F) of this Part for policy regarding vessel access around and through offshore structures and developments and along cable routes.

G. The Council recognizes that offshore wildlife viewing activities are reliant on the presence and visibility of marine and avian species which rely on benthic habitat, the availability of food, and other environmental factors. The Council shall consider these environmental factors when evaluating proposed offshore developments in these areas. Where it is determined that there is a significant impact, the Council may modify or deny activities that significantly detract from these uses.

11.9.6Marine Transportation, Navigation and Infrastructure

A. The Council recognizes the importance of designated navigation areas, which include shipping lanes, precautionary areas, recommended vessel routes, pilot boarding areas, anchorages, military testing areas, and submarine transit lanes to marine transportation and navigation activities in the Ocean SAMP area. The Council also recognizes that these and other waters within the Ocean SAMP area are heavily used by numerous existing users who have adapted to each other with regard to their uses of ocean space. Any changes in the spatial use patterns of any one of these users will result in potential impacts to the other users. The Council will carefully consider the potential impacts of such changes on the marine transportation network. Changes to existing designated navigational areas proposed by the U.S. Coast Guard, NOAA, the R.I. Port Safety and Security Forums, or other entities could similarly impact existing uses. The Council requests that they be notified by any of these parties if any such changes are to be made to the transportation network so that they may work with those entities to achieve a proper balance among existing uses.

B. The Council recognizes the economic, historic, and cultural value of marine transportation and navigation uses of the Ocean SAMP area to the state of Rhode Island. The Council's goal is to promote uses of the Ocean SAMP area that do not significantly interfere with marine transportation and safe navigation within designated navigation areas, which include shipping lanes, precautionary areas, recommended vessel routes, pilot boarding areas, anchorages, military testing areas, and submarine transit lanes. See §11.10.2 of this Part for discussion of navigation areas which have been designated as Areas of Particular Concern.

C. The Council will encourage and support uses of the Ocean SAMP area that enhance marine transportation and safe navigation within designated navigation areas, which include shipping lanes, precautionary areas, recommended vessel routes, pilot boarding areas, anchorages, military testing areas, and submarine transit lanes.

D. See §11.9.4(E) of this Part for policy regarding safe navigation around and through offshore structures and developments and along cable routes.

E. See §11.9.4(F) of this Part for policy regarding vessel access around and through offshore structures and developments and along cable routes.

11.9.7Offshore Renewable Energy and Other Offshore Development

A. The Council supports offshore development in the Ocean SAMP area that is consistent with the Ocean SAMP goals, which are to:

1. Foster a properly functioning ecosystem that can be both ecologically effective and economically beneficial;

2. Promote and enhance existing uses; and

3. Encourage marine-based economic development that considers the aspirations of local communities and is consistent and complementary to the state's overall economic development needs and goals.

B. The Council supports the policy of increasing renewable energy production in Rhode Island. The Council also recognizes:

1. Offshore wind energy currently represents the greatest potential for utility-scale renewable energy generation in Rhode Island;

2. Offshore renewable energy development is a means of mitigating the potential effects of global climate change;

3. Offshore renewable energy development will diversify Rhode Island's energy portfolio;

4. Offshore renewable energy development will aid in meeting the goals set forth in Rhode Island's Renewable Energy Standard;

5. Marine renewable energy has the potential to assist in the redevelopment of urban waterfronts and ports.

C. The Council's support of offshore renewable energy development shall not be construed to endorse or justify any particular developer or particular offshore renewable energy proposal.

D. The Council may require the applicant to fund a program to mitigate the potential impacts of a proposed offshore development to natural resources and existing human uses. The mitigation program may be used to support restoration projects, additional monitoring, preservation, or research activities on the impacted resource or site.

E. To the greatest extent possible, offshore development structures and projects shall be made available to researchers for the investigation into the effects of large-scale installations on the marine environment, and to the extent practicable, educators for the purposes of educating the public.

F. The Council shall work in coordination with the U.S. Department of the Interior Bureau of Ocean Energy Management to develop a seamless process for review and design approval of offshore wind energy facilities that is consistent across state and federal waters.

G. The Council shall work together with the U.S. Coast Guard, the U.S. Navy, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, NOAA, fishermen's organizations, marine pilots, recreational boating organizations, and other marine safety organizations to promote safe navigation, fishing, and recreational boating activity around and through offshore structures and developments, and along cable routes, during the construction, operation, and decommissioning phases of such projects. The Council will promote and support the education of all mariners regarding safe navigation around offshore structures and developments and along cable routes.

H. To coordinate the review process for offshore wind energy developments, the Council shall adopt consistent information requirements similar to the requirements of the U.S. Department of the Interior's Bureau of Ocean Energy Management for offshore wind energy. All documentation required at the time of application shall be similar with the requirements followed by the U.S. Department of the Interior Bureau of Ocean Energy Management when issuing renewable energy leases on the Outer Continental Shelf. For further details on these regulations see 30 C.F.R. §§ 285et seq. The Council shall continue to monitor the federal review process and information requirements for any changes and will make adjustments to the Ocean SAMP policies accordingly.

I. To the maximum extent practicable, the Council shall coordinate with the appropriate federal and state agencies to establish project specific requirements that shall be followed by the applicant during the pre-construction, construction, operation and decommissioning phases of an offshore development. To the maximum extent practicable, the Council shall work in coordination with a Joint Agency Working Group when establishing pre-construction survey and data requirements, monitoring requirements, protocols and mitigation measures for a proposed offshore development. State members of the Joint Agency Working Group shall coordinate with the Habitat Advisory Board and the Fishermen's Advisory Board and shall seek input from these Boards before establishing project specific recommendations for an offshore development. To the maximum extent practical, and consistent with the federal agency and tribal members' authorities, federal members of the Joint Agency Working Group, are encouraged to coordinate with the Habitat Advisory Board and the Fishermen's Advisory Board. The Joint Agency Working Group shall comprise those state and federal agencies that have a regulatory responsibility related to the proposed project, as well as the Narragansett Indian Tribal Historic Preservation Office. The agency composition of this working group may differ depending on the proposed project, but should generally include the lead federal agency with primary jurisdiction over the proposed project and the CRMC. The pre-construction survey requirements outlined in §8.5.2(F) of this Subchapter may be reduced for small- scale offshore developments as recommended by the Joint Agency Working Group.

J. The Council identifies the following industry goals for offshore projects. These are not required standards at this time but are targets project proponents should try to meet where possible to alleviate potential adverse impacts:

1. A goal for the offshore wind farm applicant and operator is to have operational noise from wind turbines average less than or equal to 100 dB re 1 µPa2 in any 1/3 octave band at a range of 100 meters at full power production.

2. The applicant and manufacturer should endeavor to minimize the radiated airborne noise from the wind turbines.

3. A monitoring system including acoustical, optical and other sensors should be established near these facilities to quantify the effects.

11.9.8Application Requirements in State Waters

A. Applicants shall meet the site assessment plan (SAP) requirements in § 11.10.5 of this Part and the following:

1. As appropriate, the Council shall coordinate and consult with relevant Federal and State agencies, and affected Indian tribes.

2. During the review process, the Council may request additional information if it is determined that the information provided is not sufficient to complete the review and approval process.

3. Once the SAP is approved by the Council the applicant may begin conducting the activities approved in the SAP.

4. Reporting requirements of the applicant under an approved SAP:

a. Following the approval of a SAP, the applicant shall notify the Council in writing within 30 days of completing installation activities of any temporary measuring devices approved by the Council.

b. The applicant shall prepare and submit to the Council a report semi-annually. The first report shall be due 6 months after work on the SAP begins; subsequent reports shall be submitted every 6 month thereafter until the SAP period is complete. The report shall summarize the applicant's site assessment activities and the results of those activities.

c. The Council reserves the right to require additional environmental and technical studies, if it is found there is a critical area lacking or missing information.

5. The applicant shall seek the Council's approval before conducting any activities not described in the approved SAP, describing in detail the type of activities the applicant proposes to conduct and the rationale for these activities. The Council shall determine whether the activities proposed are authorized by the applicant's existing SAP or require a revision to the applicant's SAP. The Council may request additional information from the applicant, if necessary, to make this determination.

6. The Council shall periodically review the activities conducted under an approved SAP. The frequency and extent of the review shall be based on the significance of any changes in available information and on onshore or offshore conditions affecting, or affected by, the activities conducted under the applicant's SAP. If the review indicates that the SAP should be revised to meet the requirements of this part, the Council shall require the applicant to submit the needed revisions.

7. The applicant may keep approved facilities (such as meteorological towers) installed during the SAP period in place during the time that the Council reviews the applicant's COP for approval. Note: Structures in state waters shall require separate authorizations outside the SAP process.

8. The applicant is not required to initiate the decommissioning process for facilities that are authorized to remain in place under the applicant's approved COP. If, following the technical and environmental review of the applicant's submitted COP, the Council determines that such facilities may not remain in place the applicant shall initiate the decommissioning process.

9. The Executive Director on behalf of the Council will be responsible for reviewing and approving study designs conducted as part of the necessary data and information contained in the SAP. The Executive Director shall seek the advice of the FAB and HAB in setting out the study designs to be completed in the SAP. The Executive Director shall also brief the Ocean SAMP Subcommittee on each study design as it is being considered. Any applicant that initiates, conducts and/or completes site assessment studies or surveying activities shall demonstrate to the Council's satisfaction that the completed studies were conducted with approval from the Executive Director and in accordance with §§ 11.10.5(A), 11.10.5(C)(2), 11.9.8(B)(8)(a) and 11.9.8(B)(8)(b) of this Part.

B. Applicants shall meet the construction and operation plan (COP) requirements in §11.10.5 of this Part and the following:

1. The applicant shall submit an oil spill response plan per the Oil Pollution Act of 1990, 33 U.S.C. § 2701et seq.

2. The applicant shall submit the applicant's safety management system, the contents of which are described below:

a. How the applicant plans to ensure the safety of personnel or anyone on or near the facility;

b. Remote monitoring, control and shut down capabilities;

c. Emergency response procedures;

d. Fire suppression equipment (if needed);

e. How and when the safety management system shall be implemented and tested; and

f. How the applicant shall ensure personnel who operate the facility are properly trained.

3. The Council shall review the applicant's COP and the information provided to determine if it contains all the required information necessary to conduct the project's technical and environmental reviews. The Council shall notify the applicant if the applicant's COP lacks any necessary information.

4. As appropriate, the Council shall coordinate and consult with relevant Federal, State, and local agencies, the FAB and affected Indian tribes.

5. During the review process, the Council may request additional information if it is determined that the information provided is not sufficient to complete the review and approval process. If the applicant fails to provide the requested information, the Council may disapprove the applicant's COP.

6. Upon completion of the technical and environmental reviews and other reviews required, the Council may approve, disapprove, or approve with modifications the applicant's COP.

7. In the applicant's COP, the applicant may request development of the project area in phases. In support of the applicant's request, the applicant shall provide details as to what portions of the site shall be initially developed for commercial operations and what portions of the site shall be reserved for subsequent phased development.

8. If the application and COP is approved, prior to construction the applicant shall submit to the Council for approval the documents listed below in §§11.9.8(B)(8)(a), (b), (c), (d) and (e) of this Part:

a. Facility design report - The applicant's facility design report provides specific details of the design of any facilities, including cables and pipelines that are outlined in the applicant's approved SAP or COP. The applicant's facility design report shall demonstrate that the applicant's design conforms to the applicant's responsibilities listed in § 11.9(G) of this Part. The applicant shall include the following items in the applicant's facility design report:

(1) Table 1: Contents of the facility design report.

Required documents:	Required contents:	Other requirements:
(1) Cover letter	(i) Proposed facility designations;	The applicant shall submit
(ii) The type of facility	four (4) paper copies and one (1) electronic copy.
(2) Location	(i) Latitude and longitude coordinates, Universal Mercator grid-system coordinates, state plane coordinates in the Lambert or Transverse Mercator Projection System; (ii) These coordinates shall be based on the NAD (North American Datum) 83 datum plane coordinate system; and (iii) The location of any proposed project easement.	The applicant's plat shall be drawn to a scale of 1 inch equals 100 feet and include the coordinates of the project site, and boundary lines. The applicant shall submit four (4) paper copies and one (1) electronic copy.
(3) Front, Side, and Plan View drawings	(i) Facility dimensions and orientation; (ii) The type of facility (iii) Pile sizes and penetration.	The applicant's drawing sizes shall not exceed 11" x 17". The applicant shall submit four (4) paper copies and one (1) electronic copy.
(4) Complete set of structural drawings	The approved for construction fabrication drawings should be submitted, including, e.g., (i) Cathodic protection systems; (ii) Jacket design; (iii) Pile foundations; (iv) Mooring and tethering systems; (v) Foundations and anchoring systems; and (vi) Associated cable and pipeline designs.	The applicant's drawing sizes shall not exceed 11" x 17". The applicant shall submit four (4) paper copies and one (1) electronic copy.
(5) Summary of environmental data used for design	A summary of the environmental data used in the design or analysis of the facility. Examples of relevant data include information on: (i) Extreme weather; (ii) Seafloor conditions; and (iii) Waves, wind, currents, tides, temperature, sea level rise projections, snow and ice effects, marine growth, and water depth.	The applicant shall submit four (4) paper copies and one (1) electronic copy. If the applicant submitted these data as part of the SAP or COP, the applicant may reference the plan.
(6) Summary of the engineering design data	(ii) The type of facility (ii) The type of facility (iii) Location of foundation boreholes and foundation piles; and (ii) The type of facility	The applicant shall submit four (4) paper copies and one (1) electronic copy.
(7) A complete set of design calculations	Self-explanatory.	The applicant shall submit four (4) paper copies and one (1) electronic copy.
(8) Project-specific studies used in the facility design or installation	All studies pertinent to facility design or installation, (e.g., oceanographic and soil reports)	The applicant shall submit four (4) paper copies and one (1) electronic copy.
(9) Description of the loads imposed on the facility	(i) Loads imposed by jacket; (ii) Turbines; (iii) Transition pieces; (iv) Foundations, foundation pilings and templates, and anchoring systems; and (v) Mooring or tethering systems.	The applicant shall submit four (4) paper copies and one (1) electronic copy.
(10) Geotechnical report	A list of all data from borings and recommended design parameters.	The applicant shall submit four (4) paper copies and one (1) electronic copy.

b. For any floating facility, the applicant's design shall meet the requirements of the U.S. Coast Guard for structural integrity and stability (e.g., verification of center of gravity). The design shall also consider:

(1) Foundations, foundation pilings and templates, and anchoring systems; and

(2) Mooring or tethering systems.

c. The applicant is required to use a certified verified agent (CVA). The facility design report shall include two paper copies of the following certification statement: ''The design of this structure has been certified by a Council approved CVA to be in accordance with accepted engineering practices and the approved SAP, or COP as appropriate. The certified design and as-built plans and specifications shall be on file at (given location).''

d. Fabrication and installation report - The applicant's fabrication and installation report shall describe how the applicant's facilities shall be fabricated and installed in accordance with the design criteria identified in the facility design report; the applicant's approved SAP or COP; and generally accepted industry standards and practices. The applicant's fabrication and installation report shall demonstrate how the applicant's facilities shall be fabricated and installed in a manner that conforms to the applicant's responsibilities listed in § 11.9(G) of this Part. The applicant shall include the following items in the applicant's fabrication and installation report:

(1) Table 2: Contents of the fabrication and installation report.

Required documents:	Required contents:	Other requirements:
(1) Cover letter	(i) Proposed facility designation; (ii) Area, name, and block number; and (iii) The type of facility	The applicant shall submit four (4) paper copies and one (1) electronic copy.
(2) Schedule	Fabrication and installation.	The applicant shall submit four (4) paper copies and one (1) electronic copy.
(3) Fabrication information	The industry standards the applicant shall use to ensure the facilities are fabricated to the design criteria identified in the facility design report.	The applicant shall submit four (4) paper copies and one (1) electronic copy.
(4) Installation process information	Details associated with the deployment activities, equipment, and materials, including offshore and onshore equipment and support, and anchoring and mooring permits.	The applicant shall submit four (4) paper copies and one (1) electronic copy.
(5) Federal, State, and local permits (e.g., EPA, Army Corps of Engineers)	Either one (1) copy of the permit or information on the status of the application.	The applicant shall submit four (4) paper copies and one (1) electronic copy.
(6) Environmental information	(i) Water discharge; (ii) Waste disposal; (iii) Vessel information; and (iv) Onshore waste receiving treatment or disposal facilities.	The applicant shall submit four (4) paper copies and one (1) electronic copy. If the applicant submitted these data as part of the SAP or COP, the applicant may reference the plan.
(7) Project easement	Design of any cables, pipelines, or facilities. Information on burial methods and vessels.	The applicant shall submit four (4) paper copies and one (1) electronic copy.

e. A CVA report shall include the following: a fabrication and installation report which shall include four paper copies of the following certification statement: ''The fabrication and installation of this structure has been certified by a Council approved CVA to be in accordance with accepted engineering practices and the approved SAP or COP as appropriate."

9. Based on the Council's environmental and technical reviews, if approved, the Council may specify terms and conditions to be incorporated into any approval the Council may issue. The applicant shall submit a certification of compliance annually (or another frequency as determined by the Council) with certain terms and conditions which may include:

a. Summary reports that show compliance with the terms and conditions which require certification; and

b. A statement identifying and describing any mitigation measures and monitoring methods, and their effectiveness. If the applicant identified measures that were not effective, then the applicant shall make recommendations for new mitigation measures or monitoring methods.

10. After the applicant's COP, facility design report, and fabrication and installation report is approved, and the Council has issued a permit and lease for the project site, construction shall begin by the date given in the construction schedule included as a part of the approved COP, unless the Council approves a deviation from the applicant's schedule.

11. The applicant shall seek approval from the Council in writing before conducting any activities not described in the applicant's approved COP. The application shall describe in detail the type of activities the applicant proposes to conduct. The Council shall determine whether the activities the applicant proposes are authorized by the applicant's existing COP or require a revision to the applicant's COP. The Council may request additional information from the applicant, if necessary, to make this determination.

12. The Council shall periodically review the activities conducted under an approved COP. The frequency and extent of the review shall be based on the significance of any changes in available information, and on onshore or offshore conditions affecting, or affected by, the activities conducted under the applicant's COP. If the review indicates that the COP should be revised, the Council may require the applicant to submit the needed revisions.

13. The applicant shall notify the Council, within 5 business days, any time the applicant ceases commercial operations, without an approved suspension, under the applicant's approved COP. If the applicant ceases commercial operations for an indefinite period which extends longer than 6 months, the Council may cancel the applicant's lease, and the applicant shall initiate the decommissioning process.

14. The applicant shall notify the Council in writing of the following events, within the time periods provided:

a. No later than ten (10) days after commencing activities associated with the placement of facilities on the lease area under a fabrication and installation report.

b. No later than ten (10) days after completion of construction and installation activities under a fabrication and installation report.

c. At least seven (7) days before commencing commercial operations.

15. The applicant may commence commercial operations within thirty (30) days after the CVA has submitted to the Council the final fabrication and installation report.

16. The applicant shall submit a project modification and repair report to the Council, demonstrating that all major repairs and modifications to a project conform to accepted engineering practices.

a. A major repair is a corrective action involving structural members affecting the structural integrity of a portion of or all the facility.

b. A major modification is an alteration involving structural members affecting the structural integrity of a portion of or all the facility.

c. The report must also identify the location of all records pertaining to the major repairs or major modifications.

d. The Council may require the applicant to use a CVA for project modifications and repairs.

C. Design, fabrication and installation standards

1. Certified verification agent - The certified verification agent (CVA) shall use good engineering judgment and practices in conducting an independent assessment of the design, fabrication and installation of the facility. The CVA shall certify in the facility design report to the Council that the facility is designed to withstand the environmental and functional load conditions appropriate for the intended service life at the proposed location. The CVA is paid for by the applicant, but is approved and reports to the Council.

a. The applicant shall use a CVA to review and certify the facility design report, the fabrication and installation report, and the project modifications and repairs report. The applicant shall use a CVA to:

(1) Ensure that the applicant's facilities are designed, fabricated, and installed in conformance with accepted engineering practices and the facility design report and fabrication and installation report;

(2) Ensure that repairs and major modifications are completed in conformance with accepted engineering practices; and

(3) Provide the Council immediate reports of all incidents that affect the design, fabrication, and installation of the project and its components.

2. Nominating a CVA for Council approval- The applicant shall nominate a CVA for the Council approval. The applicant shall specify whether the nomination is for the facility design report, fabrication and installation report, modification and repair report, or for any combination of these.

a. For each CVA that the applicant nominates, the applicant shall submit to the Council a list of documents they shall forward to the CVA and a qualification statement that includes the following:

(1) Previous experience in third-party verification or experience in the design, fabrication, installation, or major modification of offshore energy facilities;

(2) Technical capabilities of the individual or the primary staff for the specific project;

(3) Size and type of organization or corporation;

(4) In-house availability of, or access to, appropriate technology (including computer programs, hardware, and testing materials and equipment);

(5) Ability to perform the CVA functions for the specific project considering current commitments;

(6) Previous experience with the Council requirements and procedures, if any; and

(7) The level of work to be performed by the CVA.

3. Individuals or organizations acting as CVAs shall not function in any capacity that shall create a conflict of interest, or the appearance of a conflict of interest.

4. The verification shall be conducted by or under the direct supervision of registered professional engineers.

5. The Council shall approve or disapprove the applicant's CVA prior to construction.

6. The applicant shall nominate a new CVA for the Council approval if the previously approved CVA:

a. Is no longer able to serve in a CVA capacity for the project; or

b. No longer meets the requirements for a CVA set forth in this subpart.

7. The CVA shall conduct an independent assessment of all proposed:

a. Planning criteria;

b. Operational requirements;

c. Environmental loading data;

d. Load determinations;

e. Stress analyses;

f. Material designations;

g. Soil and foundation conditions;

h. Safety factors; and

i. Other pertinent parameters of the proposed design.

8. For any floating facility, the CVA shall ensure that any requirements of the U.S. Coast Guard for structural integrity and stability (e.g., verification of center of gravity), have been met. The CVA shall also consider:

a. Foundations;

b. Foundation pilings and templates, and

c. Anchoring systems.

9. The CVA shall do all of the following:

a. Use good engineering judgment and practice in conducting an independent assessment of the fabrication and installation activities;

b. Monitor the fabrication and installation of the facility;

c. Make periodic onsite inspections while fabrication is in progress and verify the items required by §11.9.8(C)(11) of this Part;

d. Make periodic onsite inspections while installation is in progress and satisfy the requirements of §11.9.8(C)(12) of this Part; and

e. Certify in a report that project components are fabricated and installed in accordance with accepted engineering practices; the applicant's approved COP or SAP; and the fabrication and installation report.

(1) The report shall also identify the location of all records pertaining to fabrication and installation.

(2) The applicant may commence commercial operations or other approved activities thirty (30) days after the Council receives that certification report, unless the Council notifies the applicant within that time period of its objections to the certification report.

10. The CVA shall monitor the fabrication and installation of the facility to ensure that it has been built and installed according to the facility design report and fabrication and Installation Report.

a. If the CVA finds that fabrication and installation procedures have been changed or design specifications have been modified, the CVA shall inform the applicant and the Council.

11. The CVA shall make periodic onsite inspections while fabrication is in progress and shall verify the following items, as appropriate:

a. Quality control by lessee (or grant holder) and builder;

b. Fabrication site facilities;

c. Material quality and identification methods;

d. Fabrication procedures specified in the fabrication and installation report, and adherence to such procedures;

e. Welder and welding procedure qualification and identification;

f. Adherence to structural tolerances specified;

g. Nondestructive examination requirements and evaluation results of the specified examinations;

h. Destructive testing requirements and results;

i. Repair procedures;

j. Installation of corrosion protection systems and splash-zone protection;

k. Erection procedures to ensure that overstressing of structural members does not occur;

l. Alignment procedures;

m. Dimensional check of the overall structure, including any turrets, turret and- hull interfaces, any mooring line and chain and riser tensioning line segments; and

n. Status of quality-control records at various stages of fabrication.

12. The CVA shall make periodic onsite inspections while installation is in progress and shall, as appropriate, verify, witness, survey, or check, the installation items required by this section. The CVA shall verify, as appropriate, all of the following:

a. Load out and initial flotation procedures;

b. Towing operation procedures to the specified location, and review the towing records;

c. Launching and uprighting activities;

d. Submergence activities;

e. Pile or anchor installations;

f. Installation of mooring and tethering systems;

g. Transition pieces, support structures, and component installations; and

h. Installation at the approved location according to the facility design report and the fabrication and installation report.

13. For a fixed or floating facility, the CVA shall verify that proper procedures were used during the following:

a. The loadout of the transition pieces and support structures, piles, or structures from each fabrication site; and

b. The actual installation of the facility or major modification and the related installation activities.

14. For a floating facility, the CVA shall verify that proper procedures were used during the following:

a. The loadout of the facility;

b. The installation of foundation pilings and templates, and anchoring systems.

15. The CVA shall conduct an onsite survey of the facility after transportation to the approved location.

16. The CVA shall spot-check the equipment, procedures, and recordkeeping as necessary to determine compliance with the applicable documents incorporated by reference and the regulations under this part.

17. The CVA shall prepare and submit to the applicant and the Council all reports required by this subpart. The CVA shall also submit interim reports to the applicant and the Council, as requested by the Council. The CVA shall submit one electronic copy and four paper copies of each final report to the Council. In each report, the CVA shall:

a. Give details of how, by whom, and when the CVA activities were conducted;

b. Describe the CVA's activities during the verification process;

c. Summarize the CVA's findings; and

d. Provide any additional comments that the CVA deems necessary.

18. Until the Council releases the applicant's financial assurance under §11.9.8(D)(2) of this Part, the applicant shall compile, retain, and make available to the Council representatives, all of the following:

a. The as-built drawings;

b. The design assumptions and analyses;

c. A summary of the fabrication and installation examination records;

d. Results from the required inspections and assessments;

e. Records of repairs not covered in the inspection report submitted.

19. The applicant shall record and retain the original material test results of all primary structural materials during all stages of construction until the Council releases the applicant's financial assurance under §11.9.8(D)(2) of this Part. Primary material is material that, should it fail, would lead to a significant reduction in facility safety, structural reliability, or operating capabilities. Items such as steel brackets, deck stiffeners and secondary braces or beams would not generally be considered primary structural members (or materials).

20. The applicant shall provide the Council with the location of these records in the certification statement.

21. The Council may hire its own CVA agent to review the work of the applicants CVA. The applicant shall be responsible for the cost of the Council's CVA. The Council's CVA shall perform those duties as assigned by the Council.

D. Pre-construction standards

1. The Council may issue a permit for a period of up to fifty (50) years to construct and operate an offshore development. A lease shall be issued at the start of the construction phase and payment shall commence at the end of the construction phase. Lease payments shall be due when the project becomes operational. Lease renewal shall be submitted five (5) years before the end of the lease term. Council approval shall be required for any assignment or transfer of the permit or lease. This provision shall not apply to aquaculture permitting. Aquaculture permitting and leasing are governed by the provisions of R.I. Gen. Laws Chapter 20-10 and §00-1.3.1(K) of this Chapter.

2. Prior to construction, the assent holder shall post a performance bond sufficient to ensure removal of all structures at the end of the lease and restoration of the site. The Council shall review the bond amount initially and every three (3) years thereafter to ensure the amount is sufficient.

3. Prior to construction, the assent holder shall show compliance with all federal and state agency requirements, which may include but are not limited to the requirements of the following agencies: the Rhode Island Coastal Resources Management Council, the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management, the Rhode Island Energy Facilities Siting Board, the Rhode Island Historical Preservation and Heritage Commission, U.S. Department of the Interior Bureau of Ocean Energy Management, Army Corps of Engineers, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

4. The Council shall consult with the U.S. Coast Guard, the U.S. Navy, marine pilots, the Fishermen's Advisory Board as defined in § 11.3(E) of this Part, fishermen's organizations, and recreational boating organizations when scheduling offshore marine construction or dredging activities. Where it is determined that there is a significant conflict with season-limited commercial or recreational fishing activities, recreational boating activities or scheduled events, or other navigation uses, the Council shall modify or deny activities to minimize conflict with these uses.

5. The Council shall require the assent holder to provide for communication with commercial and recreational fishermen, mariners, and recreational boaters regarding offshore marine construction or dredging activities. Communication shall be facilitated through a project website and shall complement standard U.S. Coast Guard procedures such as Notices to Mariners for notifying mariners of obstructions to navigation.

6. For all large-scale offshore developments, underwater cables, and other development projects as determined by the Council, the assent holder shall designate and fund a third-party fisheries liaison. The fisheries liaison must be knowledgeable about fisheries and shall facilitate direct communication between commercial and recreational fishermen and the project developer. Commercial and recreational fishermen shall have regular contact with and direct access to the fisheries liaison throughout all stages of an offshore development (pre-construction; construction; operation; and decommissioning).

7. Where possible, offshore developments should be designed in a configuration to minimize adverse impacts on other user groups, which include but are not limited to: recreational boaters and fishermen, commercial fishermen, commercial ship operators, or other vessel operators in the project area. Configurations which may minimize adverse impacts on vessel traffic include, but are not limited to, the incorporation of a traffic lane through a development to facilitate safe and direct navigation through, rather than around, an offshore development.

8. Any assent holder of an approved offshore development shall work with the Council when designing the proposed facility to incorporate where possible mooring mechanisms to allow safe public use of the areas surrounding the installed turbine or other structure.

9. The facility shall be designed in a manner that minimizes adverse impacts to navigation. As part of its application package, the project applicant shall submit a navigation risk assessment under the U.S. Coast Guard's Navigation and Vessel Inspection Circular 02-07, "Guidance on the Coast Guard's Roles and Responsibilities for Offshore Renewable Energy Installations."

10. Applications for projects proposed to be sited in state waters pursuant to the Ocean SAMP shall not have a significant impact on marine transportation, navigation, and existing infrastructure. Where the Council, in consultation with the U.S. Coast Guard, the U.S. Navy, NOAA, the U.S. Bureau of Ocean Energy Management, Regulation and Enforcement, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, marine pilots, the R.I. Port Safety and Security Forums, or other entities, as applicable, determines that such an impact on marine transportation, navigation, and existing infrastructure is unacceptable, the Council shall require that the applicant modify the proposal or the Council shall deny the proposal. For the purposes of marine transportation policies and standards as summarized in Ocean SAMP Chapter 7, impacts will be evaluated according to the same criteria used by the U.S. Coast Guard, as follows; these criteria shall not be construed to apply to any other Ocean SAMP chapters or policies:

a. Negligible: No measurable impacts.

b. Minor: Adverse impacts to the affected activity could be avoided with proper mitigation; or impacts would not disrupt the normal or routine functions of the affected activity or community; or once the impacting agent is eliminated, the affected activity would return to a condition with no measurable effects from the proposed action without any mitigation.

c. Moderate: Impacts to the affected activity are unavoidable; and proper mitigation would reduce impacts substantially during the life of the proposed action; or the affected activity would have to adjust somewhat to account for disruptions due to impacts of the proposed action; or once the impacting agent is eliminated, the affected activity would return to a condition with no measurable effects from the proposed action if proper remedial action is taken.

d. Major: Impacts to the affected activity are unavoidable; proper mitigation would reduce impacts somewhat during the life of the proposed action; the affected activity would experience unavoidable disruptions to a degree beyond what is normally acceptable; and once the impacting agent is eliminated, the affected activity may retain measurable effects of the proposed action indefinitely, even if remedial action is taken.

11. Prior to construction, the Applicant shall provide a letter from the U.S. Coast Guard showing it meets all applicable U.S. Coast Guard standards.

E. Standards for construction activities

1. The assent holder shall use the best available technology and techniques to minimize impacts to the natural resources and existing human uses in the project area.

2. The Council shall require the use of an environmental inspector to monitor construction activities. The environmental inspector shall be a private, third-party entity that is hired by the assent holder, but is approved and reports to the Council. The environmental inspector shall possess all appropriate qualifications as determined by the Council. This inspector service may be part of the CVA requirements.

3. Installation techniques for all construction activities should be chosen to minimize sediment disturbance. Jet plowing and horizontal directional drilling in near-shore areas shall be required in the installation of underwater transmission cables. Other technologies may be used provided the applicant can demonstrate they are as effective, or more effective, than these techniques in minimizing sediment disturbance.

4. All construction activities shall comply with the policies and standards outlined in the Rhode Island Coastal Resources Management Program (RICRMP), as well as the regulations of other relevant state and federal agencies.

5. The applicant shall conduct all activities on the applicant's permit under this part in a manner that conforms with the applicant's responsibilities in §11.10.1(E) of this Part, and using:

a. Trained personnel; and

b. Technologies, precautions, and techniques that shall not cause undue harm or damage to natural resources, including their physical, atmospheric, chemical and biological components.

6. The assent holder shall be required to use the best available technology and techniques to mitigate any associated adverse impacts of offshore renewable energy development.

a. As required, the applicant shall submit to the Council:

(1) Measures designed to avoid or minimize adverse effects and any potential incidental take of endangered or threatened species as well as all marine mammals;

(2) Measures designed to avoid likely adverse modification or destruction of designated critical habitat of such endangered or threatened species; and

(3) The applicant's agreement to monitor for the incidental take of the species and adverse effects on the critical habitat, and provide the results of the monitoring to the Council as required.

7. If the assent holder, the assent holder's subcontractors, or any agent acting on the assent holder's behalf discovers a potential archaeological resource while conducting construction activities or any other activity related to the Assent Holder's project, the applicant shall:

a. Immediately halt all seafloor disturbing activities within the area of the discovery;

b. Notify the Council of the discovery within 24 hours; and

c. Keep the location of the discovery confidential and not take any action that may adversely affect the archaeological resource until the Council has made an evaluation and instructed the applicant on how to proceed.

(1) The Council may require the assent holder to conduct additional investigations to determine if the resource is eligible for listing in the National Register of Historic Places under 36 C.F.R. § 60.4. T he Council shall do this if:

(AA) The site has been impacted by the assent holder's project activities; or

(BB) Impacts to the site or to the area of potential effect cannot be avoided.

(2) If the Council incurs costs in protecting the resource, under section 110(g) of the NHPA, the Council may charge the applicant reasonable costs for carrying out preservation responsibilities.

8. Post construction, the assent holder shall provide a side scan sonar survey of the entire construction site to verify that there is no post construction debris left at the project site. These side-scan sonar survey results shall be filed with the Council within ninety (90) days of the end of the construction period. The results of this side-scan survey shall be verified by a third-party reviewer, who shall be hired by the assent holder but who is pre-approved by and reports to the Council.

9. All pile-driving or drilling activities shall comply with any mandatory best management practices established by the Council in coordination with the Joint Agency Working Group and which are incorporated into the RICRMP.

10. The Council may require the assent holder to hire a CVA to perform periodic inspections of the structure(s) during the life of those structure(s). The CVA shall work for and be responsible to the council.

F. When mitigation is required by the Council, the reasonable costs associated with mitigation negotiations, which may include data collection and analysis, technical and financial analysis, and legal costs, shall be borne by the applicant. The applicant shall establish and maintain either an escrow account to cover said costs of the negotiations or such other mechanism as set forth in the permit or approval condition pertaining to mitigation.

G. The CRMC shall convene a Wind Energy Industry-Fishery Coordination Board that will be composed of invited representatives of wind energy developers with projects located within state waters and the Rhode Island 2011 and 2018 GLDs, fishery representatives of the major sectors from the states of Rhode Island and Massachusetts, and state fishery and coastal management representatives from each state, including any other representatives of state or federal agencies deemed necessary. The Board will meet semi-annually to discuss and resolve fishery and wind industry interactions during and after the construction phase of each wind energy project.

11.9.9Baseline Assessment Requirements and Standards in State Waters

A. The Council in coordination with the Joint Agency Working Group, as described in §11.9.7(I) of this Part, shall determine requirements for the development of baseline assessments prior to, during, and post construction for all offshore projects. Monitoring of offshore projects is essential to determine whether construction and operation activities may have an adverse impact on the physical and biological components of offshore waters. In particular, establishment of pre-construction baseline assessments of commercial and recreational fishery resource conditions (i.e., community structure, biodiversity, and species biomass, abundance, size distribution) is necessary for evaluation of any potential coastal effects. Assessments and monitoring are essential to determine whether there are any potential coastal effects and potential cumulative impacts resulting from the construction and operation of multiple wind energy projects. Specific assessment and monitoring requirements shall be determined on a project-by-project basis and may include but are not limited to the assessment and monitoring of:

1. Coastal processes and physical oceanography

2. Underwater noise

3. Benthic ecology

4. Avian species

5. Marine mammals

6. Sea turtles

7. Fish and fish habitat

8. Commercial and recreational fishing

9. Recreation and tourism

10. Marine transportation, navigation and existing infrastructure

11. Cultural and historic resources

B. The Council shall require where appropriate that project developers perform systematic observations of recreational boating intensity at the project area at least three times: pre-construction; during construction; and post-construction. Observations may be made while conducting other field work or aerial surveys and may include either visual surveys or analysis of aerial photography or video photography. The Council shall require where appropriate that observations capture both weekdays and weekends and reflect high-activity periods including, but not limited to, the July 4th holiday weekend, the week in June when the Block Island Race Week typically takes place, and other recreational boating events within Narragansett Bay, and Rhode Island and Block Island Sounds. The quantitative results of such observations, including raw boat counts and average number of vessels per day, will be provided to the Council.

C. The items listed below shall be required for all offshore developments:

1. A biological assessment of commercially and recreationally targeted fishery species shall be required within the project area for all offshore developments for the periods specified in §11.9.9(E) of this Part. This assessment shall assess the relative abundance, distribution, and different life stages of these species at all four seasons of the year. This assessment shall comprise a series of surveys, using survey equipment and methods that are appropriate for sampling finfish, shellfish, and crustacean species at the project's proposed location. This assessment may include evaluation of survey data collected through an existing survey program, if data are available for the proposed site.

2. An assessment of commercial and recreational fisheries effort, landings, and landings value shall be required for all proposed offshore developments. The assessment shall focus on the proposed project area and any alternatives. This assessment shall evaluate commercial and recreational fishing effort, landings, and landings value at three different stages: pre-construction (to assess baseline conditions); during construction; and during operation, as specified in §11.9.9(E) of this Part. At each stage, all four seasons of the year must be evaluated. Assessment may use existing fisheries monitoring data but shall be supplemented by interviews with commercial and recreational fishermen. Assessment shall address whether fishing effort, landings, and landings value has changed in comparison to baseline (pre-construction) conditions.

D. The Council in coordination with the Joint Agency Working Group may also require facility and infrastructure monitoring requirements that may include but are not limited to:

1. Post construction monitoring including regular visual inspection of inner array cables and the primary export cable to ensure proper burial, foundation and substructure inspection.

E. Assessment standards - applicants shall provide the following biological assessments necessary to establish the baseline conditions of the fishery resource conditions during the project phases detailed below so that an analysis of comparison between project phases can be completed to assess whether project construction, installation and operation has resulted in significant adverse impacts to the commercial and recreational fishery resources.

1. Pre-construction baseline biological assessments of commercial and recreational targeted fishery species as specified in §11.9.9(C) of this Part for a minimum of two (2) complete years before offshore construction and installation activities begin;

2. During construction biological assessments of commercial and recreational targeted fishery species as specified in §11.9.9(C) for each year (if construction extends beyond a single year) of construction and installation; and

3. Post-construction biological assessments of commercial and recreational targeted fishery species as specified in §11.9.9(C) of this Part for three (3) complete years following completion of construction and installation activities and during the operational phase of the project.

F. The Council shall require post-construction assessments of commercial and recreational targeted fishery species at five (5) year intervals following the post-construction monitoring required in §11.9.9(E)(3) of this Part. The assessments shall be conducted during the four seasons of a year as specified in §11.9.9(C) of this Part. If the analysis of post-construction assessments demonstrate adverse impacts to fishery species as compared to the baseline assessments required in §11.9.9(E)(1) of this Part that are attributable to the construction or operation of a wind energy project, then the Council may require mitigation measures consistent with §§11.10.1(E) and (F) of this Part.

650 R.I. Code R. 650-RICR-20-05-11.9

Amended effective 10/6/2019