Abstract
The guidance documents are intended to be available for regulators and advisors as they carry out their decision-making and for developers and consultants as they prepare consenting and licensing applications. This stressor-specific document presents an overview of the scientific information that is known for collision risk. It is not intended to replace any regulatory requirements or prescribe action for a particular risk. This document is intended to be read in conjunction with the background document.
The presence of MRE devices—particularly tidal, ocean current, or riverine turbines—is thought to pose a risk of collision to marine animals. The concern is that a collision with moving device parts (e.g., turbine blades) or a moving device (e.g., tidal kite) could cause irreversible injuries or death to an individual, which may affect its survival and the long-term status of populations. An animal could come into close contact with an MRE device or its parts in the course of its natural movement, if it is not strong enough to avoid currents, or is attracted to the device for purposes of feeding, seeking shelter, or out of curiosity. Marine mammals, especially protected or threatened populations, endangered or commercially and recreationally important fish species, sea turtles, and endangered seabirds are of greatest concern for collision risk.
Check out the links within the stressor-specific guidance document for collision risk for additional tools, resources and information.