Norway is preparing for a green energy future at sea. But what happens to the fish and marine life when giant wind turbines appear offshore? To find out, the Institute of Marine Research has started a large-scale project in the North Sea.
Researchers are now placing 60 listening buoys on the seabed in two areas: Sørvest F and Vestavind F. The buoys will track fish fitted with acoustic tags, as well as pick up signals from animals tagged in other studies.
“We are eager to learn more about how fish and sea mammals move so far offshore. To our knowledge, this is the first time such a network has been deployed this far from the coast,” says expedition leader Karen de Jong.
Following Life Before and After Wind Farms
The mission is clear: understand how fish and sea mammals behave before, during, and after wind farm construction. Scientists want to know whether turbines might affect migration routes, feeding, or spawning.
To make this possible, they need the buoys back later. “We ask fishers and others to avoid trawling near the sites. If anyone catches a tagged fish or finds equipment, please contact us,” de Jong explains.
Fishing organisations have already contributed to the planning to reduce conflicts with traditional fisheries.
Cameras, Traps, and Underwater Drones
Besides the listening buoys, scientists use traps and camera rigs to record fish life. These methods can continue even after turbines are installed, unlike trawling, which will likely not be possible inside wind parks.
The team also deploys unmanned underwater vehicles to map the seabed and study habitats in known areas with sand eels. This detailed mapping will help build a picture of the ecosystem before significant changes come.
A Long-Term Watch on the Sea
The study will span several years, providing researchers with a unique opportunity to compare data over time. The hope is to secure both renewable energy and healthy seas.
“Wind power is important for the future, but so is marine life. Our job is to make sure we understand the connections,” says de Jong.