Title: Field Observations During Offshore Wind Structure Installation and Operation, Volume 2
Key Researchers: K. Ampela, C.E. Bacon, A. A. Khan, Y.-T. Lin, J. H. Miller, A. E. Newhall, G. R. Potty
As part of the Real-Time Opportunity for Development Environmental Observations (RODEO) Study, underwater sound was measured during the operation of two wind turbines as part of the Coastal Virginia Offshore Wind (CVOW) pilot project. Sound was measured using a Geosled with a tetrahedral hydrophone arran and a three-axis geophone and two ocean bottom recorders. Sound levels were recorded in the range of 120 to 130 dB, similar to ambient levels of sound.
Findings
- The operational sound is measurable and similar to ambient sound in the ocean
- Particle acceleration levels were below hearing thresholds for Atlantic cod, dab, and Atlantic salmon
How BOEM will use this information
- Results will inform environmental assessments of future offshore wind development
- Inform decisions about future monitoring of operational offshore wind facilities