Actually, if you read UNC's 2009 report "Coastal Wind - Energy for North Carolina's Future", you will find that a lot of research and suitability analyses have been conducted that show a low level of conflict with avian and marine species in the areas that the BOEM has suggested for potential offshore wind developments. The report even suggests that certain marine habitats will benefit from the creation of offshore wind. I do agree with you though in that there will be negative effects, but the areas selected by the BOEM are the areas where those negative effects will be the least. In addition, you have to understand the consequences of not building offshore wind. If we stick to our traditional fossil fuel based energy market and build more coal and natural gas facilities, what are the effects on marine and avian species there regarding pollution, sea level rise, climate change, etc.? Also, if we do stick to traditional fossil fuels, you run the risk of increased oil and gas exploration and drilling in the Atlantic. What are the effects associated with that?

For a long term strategy, considering the alternatives, I think offshore wind is a great solution.