20040561 Ver 4_DMF comments on maj mod CAMA91-14 VBHI response 5 11 2021_20210513

ROY COOPER
Governor
DIONNE DELLI-GATTI
Secretary
KATHY B. RAWLS
Director
TO: Heather Coats, DCM Beach and Inlet Management Project Coordinator
FROM: Anne Deaton, DMF Habitat Program Manager
SUBJECT: Major Modification to CAMA Permit # 91-14, VBHI South Beach nourishment with
Frying Pan Shoals sand
DATE: May 11, 2021
The DMF has reviewed the new information provided by the Village of Bald Head Island (April 16, 2021
letter) regarding their request to use Frying Pan Shoals for beach nourishment. We appreciate the
information provided on sediment transport, their willingness to consider this a one-time event, and to
conduct benthic monitoring. However, DMF continues to have concerns that there is insufficient
information available to adequately assess the impacts of this project. To date, no additional information
has been provided regarding the effects that the proposed work could have on aquatic species. That
information is needed to evaluate the possibility that a project could be designed to avoid adverse
impacts. Due to the high importance of Frying Pan Shoals to numerous forage and fishery species, as well
as the integrity of NC's shoreline, DMF is not satisfied with the additional information provided by
VBHI. The Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM) provided a draft report, "Assessment of
Frying Pan Shoals as a potential sand source in the Cape Fear Region of NC" in April 2021. The report
summarizes information and research gaps identified through literature review, interviews with scientists
and fishermen, as well as input received during workshops held in 2020
(https://espis.boem.gov/final%20reports/BOEM 2021-028.pdf).
Based on the results of that assessment, BOEM has begun developing a research proposal that includes
physical, biological, chemical, and geomorphologic components to fully understand the potential effects
of dredging at Frying Pan Shoals. Status of the funding award is expected by the end of 2021; if funded,
work could begin by 2022-2024. If funded, that project could address many of the identified information
gaps. The DMF cannot evaluate the impacts of mining sand from Frying Pan Shoals until robust and
comprehensive studies are completed to better understand short and long-term consequences on
productivity and fishery resources at Frying Pan Shoals.
Thank you for the opportunity to comment.
Feel free to contact me if you have any questions: 910-796-7311; [e-mail]
State of North Carolina I Division of Marine Fisheries
3441 Arendell Street I P.O. Box 769 I Morehead City, North Carolina 28557
252-726-7021