While the deep waters off Cape Charles Harbor create an excellent opportunity for maritime economics, they also provide a prime location for large ship anchorages. Since ships currently use waters off of Cape Charles for temporary anchorages (and have for many years), the US Coast Guard is proposing a formal anchorage that will be located just outside the town harbor. Current use cases predict little or no uptick in traffic, however, this is hard to predict for certain.
USCG representatives were in Cape Charles Wednesday to brief the public on the current proposal. Public comments and questions were robust, mainly focused on the impact to tourism, town commerce, local fishing, and of course the environment. Local fisherman Butch Vest noted that, after many years of being abused by the Omega Menhaden fleet, recreational fisherman are leery of large ships anchoring in midst of local fishing grounds, especially during rockfish season. Vest also voiced concern that commercial activity, such as crabbing could also be effected. While the USCG made efforts to present a big picture scenario, offering the fundamental role that cargo ships play in the regional and national economy, Nancy Vest countered, “I can appreciate that, but what I’m concerned about is our economy and how it will be effected. I’m concerned about the survival of this town.”
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