Four New York commercial fishermen filed a lawsuit on October 30 in the U.S. District Court in Brooklyn, alleging that the construction of the Empire Wind offshore array has severely damaged their livelihoods. The plaintiffs—lobstermen Peter, Anthony, and Carlo DiMeglio, along with Franklin Square fisherman Timothy Hatch—claim the project’s infrastructure has devastated their ability to harvest lobster and tautog off Long Island’s South Shore.
The lawsuit charges that Equinor Wind US and its parent company, Empire Wind, were aware that construction activities would inflict economic harm on the local fishing industry. While the fishermen stated they do not oppose offshore wind energy, they contend that the project’s development in the New York Bight has caused a profound, negative impact on their careers.
Dispute Over Compensation Claims
The plaintiffs sought financial redress through an established compensation program for fishermen affected by offshore construction. According to the complaint, the fishermen provided a conservative estimate of $3.466 million in economic losses. In response, the developers offered the DiMeglio family $10,438 per vessel to cover damages over a seven-year period.
The fishermen further allege that they notified the company of their trap locations once construction began in 2025. Despite receiving assurances that bottom-disturbing work would be avoided in those zones, two of the DiMeglios claimed they later found their gear destroyed. They submitted claims for $59,776 to cover the loss of this equipment, but the company denied the requests.
Impact on Marine Habitat and Operations
The legal complaint asserts that the installation of 54 foundations, cables, and an offshore substation has “catastrophically damaged” the natural habitat of American lobsters and blackfish. The suit claims that the removal of wrecks and artificial reefs, combined with the “paving” of the seabed with gravel, has permanently altered the environment.
The fishermen allege that noise and vibrations from the wind farm operations stress the lobster population, forcing them to migrate away from the area. Prior to the start of construction in 2025, the fishermen reported consistently landing 500 to 600 pounds of catch per trip; they now claim their hauls have dropped to under 75 pounds.
Equinor’s Stance on Environmental Monitoring
Equinor has maintained that it implemented extensive protections for wildlife, including sea mammals, during the construction phase. On its company website, Equinor states that it developed a comprehensive fisheries and benthic monitoring program to assess marine ecosystem impacts before, during, and after construction. The developer asserts that it collects baseline data to track changes throughout the project’s lifecycle and maintains a dedicated portal for fisheries compensation.
An Equinor spokesperson stated the company does not comment on pending litigation.
Lawsuit Emerges Amid Rising Material Costs and Regulatory Scrutiny
The lawsuit seeks unspecified damages in excess of $75,000, including punitive damages and court costs. This filing arrives as the U.S. offshore wind industry faces significant headwinds, including rising material costs, interest rates, and federal regulatory scrutiny. While some developers have been paid to rescind leases or halt projects due to national security concerns, Empire Wind continues to work toward commercial operation, with turbine installation expected to begin next year.
Fishermen Seek Damages Exceeding $75,000 for Permanent Career Losses
What is the status of the Empire Wind project?
Construction continues approximately 14 miles off Jones Beach. The developer is currently awaiting specialized support vessels and expects to begin installing towers, turbines, and blades early next year.
What specific damages are the fishermen seeking?
The lawsuit seeks damages in excess of $75,000, as well as punitive damages and court costs. The plaintiffs contend that these funds are necessary to compensate for the permanent loss of their careers and the destruction of their fishing gear.
How does the company respond to concerns regarding habitat destruction?
Equinor states that it has conducted extensive monitoring of the seafloor and marine life to assess the project’s impact. The company maintains that it has baseline data collection in place and provides a specific process for fishermen to report construction-related impacts.
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