DTurner

I share chinook35's concerns about the underwater transmission line and have officially submitted comments to the PSC regarding the potential negative impacts to our world class fishery. While there have been some studies on the issue, there are still too many unknowns about the effects of the electromagnetic fields created by these cables on migratory fish. Here are some excerpts from some of the research I found; Some aquatic species, such as the spiny lobster and loggerhead turtle, use the earth’s geomagnetic field as a means of navigation and positioning. The presence of magnetite within many other migratory species, including salmonids, suggests that they also may use the earth’s geomagnetic field for navigation. According to POLÉO ET AL. (2001), eels and salmonids show a bradycardial response (i. e. a reduction in heartbeat rate) at minimum field strengths. The influence of magnetic fields on orientation in teleost fish is still under discussion as some studies reported effects in salmonids and eels while other failed to do so (POLÉO ET AL. 2001). According to references in WARNEKE (2001), eels and several salmonid species react to experimental magnetic fields. Magnetic fields generated by cables might impair the orientation of fish and marine mammals and therefore negatively affect especially migratory behavior. Also eggs and larvae of many fish species react very sensitive to electric fields. According to FRICKE (2000) magnetic fields can potentially affect the orientation of marine fish during their migrations or even redirect the migration. Electric fields can have scaring effects on marine fish and probably also redirect the migration pattern. My comments to the PSC suggest that the developer should be required to fund sufficient studies on the potential negative environmental and economic impacts to the Lake Ontario fishery before they are allowed to install and activate any underwater transmission lines that cut through the heart of one of the worlds best fisheries.I found no studies that were focused on trout and salmon in a coldwater/freshwater environment so new specific research should be required for this project. They (PSC) require research on the impacts to bats and birds from wind projects, our fishery is no less important. You can also let the NYS Public Service Commission (PSC) know your feelings by sending an email to Kathleen H. Burgess, the Secretary of the PSC. Her email address is, [email protected] and any comments on this project should "Galloo Wind Project (Case 15-F-0327)". The comment period is open until October 15, 2018 but sooner is better.