In a letter, the Congressmen stated: “We believe that due to the importance of these studies and the significant attention past studies have garnered, the need for additional time for clarification and review is paramount.  Accordingly, we respectfully request the NMFS issue a 60-day extension to the public comment period to allow ample review of the application submitted as well as additional time to fully notify and educate interested parties.”  Click here to read the letter.

    “Once again, Frank LoBiondo and I are weighing in with serious concerns regarding the National Science Foundation’s (NSF) application for a seismic survey to be conducted off the coast of the Jersey Shore,” Smith said. “The shore communities we represent need more time to evaluate and prepare comments on the impact that this controversial proposal would have on our state, including our fisheries. Previous surveying has involved aiming sound pulse blasts from a boat on the surface shot out of dozens of  airguns directed at the seabed. They are powerful enough to measure echoes that bounce off sediment layers more than a mile beneath the sea floor. The sound pulse blasts produce about 250 decibels every five seconds, 24-hours a day for 30 days. A 60-day extension to study the impact of this disruptive activity is a reasonable request to allow time to research and compile information to submit during the comment period, and we are asking Dr. Sullivan to give us that time.”

    The proposed seismic survey is expected to begin in June and proceed during the summer months when a large percentage of revenue is generated by seasonal tourism. New Jersey’s commercial and recreational fishing industries, both of which are still recovering from the devastation and economic loss of Superstorm Sandy, has strong concerns about how the seismic survey will impact the New Jersey fisheries.  

     “I’m deeply disappointed NOAA is again considering to allow seismic testing off of the Jersey Shore. Last year I joined the near-unanimous opposition from local concerned residents, commercial and recreational fishermen, and environmentalists for the proposed project. Those same groups are again speaking out and deserve to be heard,” said Representative LoBiondo. “Congressman Smith and I have repeatedly pressed NOAA to recognize the serious and significant reservations of our communities and those who visit the Jersey Shore during the summer tourism season. There are legitimate questions unanswered about the impact to local marine life, the potential damage to endangered species and habitats, and the need to do such research at this time in the first place. A 60-day extension to the public comment period is a valid request that NOAA should promptly consider and grant.”

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