Virginia’s Seabed Mining Proposal Sparks Outcry | Virginia Beach News

Federal officials are eyeing Virginia’s Eastern Shore for offshore seabed mining, targeting critical minerals in waters between three and sixty-three miles out — but environmentalists and local communities are sounding the alarm. This region, home to the world’s largest seagrass restoration project, pristine barrier islands, and a UNESCO-recognized Virginia Coast Reserve, is a lifeline for marine and bird species including oystercatchers, piping plovers, and whales. Mining could disrupt vital habitats, threaten fisheries, and damage water quality across hundreds of miles. Over a thousand people, including county boards and conservation groups, have already voiced opposition during the open comment period, which ends August 22nd. BOEM plans to review feedback and conduct a lengthy environmental impact assessment before any lease decisions — potentially taking over a year. Experts warn dredging could unleash toxic sediment plumes that harm marine life, fish eggs, and even carbon-storing seagrass meadows. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/36aab3ebf96ab242