Wayne Duffett’s recent Maine Voices column (“Reviewing environmental permit issues is long overdue,” Feb. 14) is an excellent example of people who only consider science they want to agree with instead of trying to work within the bigger picture.

In the 1970s, I learned that lobsters move offshore from the first snow until spring, when they move back into shallower waters. When near-coastal waters get too warm, lobsters move to more comfortable, medium-depth waters, until the snow falls again.

The impact of pile driving is obvious to landlubbers, as windows rattle every time the driver hits a piling. Sound travels more intensely underwater than through the air.

Marine biologists found direct correlation between man-made underwater noise and how marine life is stressed, whether it is caused by air cannons used in seismic work, motorboats’ propeller noise, or military exercises.

Therefore, the next time Mr. Duffett’s firm drives pilings or dredges, he should don a wetsuit and snorkeling or scuba gear and remain submerged with his ears exposed and spend 30 minutes at various locations near the construction site. Extrapolate the sensations for the duration of the project. His experience should be recorded with good hydrophones and decibel meters so news programs can share his experience with viewers.

Then he can advise the public if he still thinks that the deafening compression vibration noise has no effect on the environment. Perhaps he’ll have a better appreciation for realistic Environmental Impact Statements. “Do unto others what you’d like if roles were reversed.”

On the other hand, more science may provide waiver opportunities for some marine construction along the shoreline during some summer months when the lobsters have moved to cooler mid-waters.

If it costs more to do a job right, then charge what it costs. Easy profit isn’t worth destroying the world’s ecosystems or environment.

 

Copy the Story Link