Massachusetts released a draft of its trend-setting “Ocean Plan” which will establish zoning for the state’s coastal waters. Zoning state waters is a concept generally associated with shopping centers and apartment complexes moved off dry land this month. It is told that the Ocean Plan, which will soon be the subject of public hearings, is definitely good for business. But it is far better for some businesses than others. Those in industries not favored in the draft document must now speak up for their interests to make sure that the plan takes a more equitable approach to future ocean development.
According to the plan there will be two key areas for large wind projects — one just off the southern end of the Elizabeth Islands and the other off Nomans Land, an uninhabited island southwest of Martha’s Vineyard. The plan designates a large multi-use area of ocean that can accommodate a wide range of development projects, but it withholds the presumption of approval offered to wind projects.
But the plan prohibits development in the Cape Cod Ocean Sanctuary. Thus companies and industry groups that hope to eventually benefit from Massachusetts’ new ocean zoning need to be active participants in the coming hearings.
