The Mobile Chamber responded after learning that the Mobile Baykeeper intended to sue the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers over the Mobile Port widening project.
Bradley Byrne, president and CEO of the Mobile Chamber, warned the lawsuit "threatens future job growth."
“While lawsuits like this one are adept at generating headlines, they're not exactly known for building bridges (or in this case, shipping channels) towards a better future,” said Byrne. “The deepening and widening of the ship channel, which was approved through a rigorous environmental process, will make Mobile Bay the deepest harbor on the Gulf Coast.”
“This is a huge competitive advantage as it allows access to larger cargo ships, attracts new businesses and trade opportunities and in turn translates into more jobs and economic growth for our region,” he continued. “This lawsuit does just the opposite and threatens future job growth. We believe economic prosperity and environmental protection can go hand in hand.”
The Baykeeper said the positive economic impact of a deeper channel can be accomplished without threatening wildlife.
They suggested limiting in-bay disposal to beneficial use only, conducting a formal study on channel wave energy mitigation, using oxygen-loss mitigation devices, and a “living shoreline” conversion.
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers said it is in compliance with the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS).
"The Mobile Harbor project complies with all applicable federal and state regulations," the Corps said in a statement. "The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is actively monitoring dredging to ensure compliance and continues to work with jurisdictional agencies to protect resources in Mobile Bay."
The Mobile District of the Corps underwent a consultation for compliance with the Endangered Species Act, and that report can be found online. A 2018 report stated that the NMFS found no unacceptable impacts on monitored habitats.
To connect with the author of this story or to comment, email erica.thomas@1819news.com.
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