Vineyard Wind has commenced mobilizing debris recovery teams on Nantucket to survey the southern-facing beaches of the island following a recent turbine blade damage incident. The offshore wind farm, currently under construction off the US northeast coast, remains vigilant in ensuring personnel and mariner safety with the assistance of the US Coast Guard maintaining a 500-meter safety zone around the affected turbine.
In a statement, the owner of Vineyard Wind emphasized their commitment to a prompt and secure debris recovery process, stating, “We are fully committed to a swift and safe recovery of all debris, with an unwavering focus on community safety and environmental protection.”
Vineyard Wind has already retrieved three significant fragments and continues to monitor the offshore area for any additional floating debris through aerial overflights and vessel patrols. Immediate actions include coordination with local officials on Nantucket to inform them about the debris presence and recovery operations along the island's southern-facing beaches.
Starting from July 16, 2024, Vineyard Wind has deployed trained teams to conduct thorough debris collection efforts twice daily at key locations such as Miacomet Beach, Nobadeer Beach, Madequecham Beach, Pebble Beach, Tom Nevers Beach, Low Beach, and Sconset Beach.
The debris, primarily non-toxic fiberglass ranging in size from small pieces to larger sections, is identifiable by its green or white color. Vineyard Wind advises that only their designated employees or contractors handle and remove these fragments to ensure safety and proper disposal practices.
