Neitzel and Deetman (2025) Enabling sustainable coexistence between offshore wind farms and small-scale fisheries in Dutch waters: Integrating lessons learned from the UK in governance, ecological monitoring, operational safety, and socio-economic resilience Wageningen Marine Research report
This study explores how offshore wind farms and small-scale fisheries can coexist. It shows that coexistence is possible, particularly for static gear fisheries such as pots and nets, when supported by early engagement, clear communication and trusted fisheries liaison structures. At the same time, the report highlights that floating offshore wind projects present new uncertainties, especially for mobile gear fisheries, due to larger footprints, cables and safety constraints. The study also shows that fishers contribution is valuable local ecological knowledge, reporting species shifts, concerns about electromagnetic fields (EMF), and temporary ecological effects during construction phases. Overall, the report concludes that successful coexistence requires case-by-case solutions, improved data sharing and the active involvement of fishers, rather than assuming that offshore wind development automatically benefits fisheries or ecosystems
