MVI was contracted by Ocean Infinity to provide protected species monitoring and mitigation services in support of geophysical AUV and WROV survey operations within the Equinor Atlas Wind lease area of the Morro Bay Wind Energy Area off the central California coast. MVI deployed Protected Species Observers (PSOs) and alternative monitoring technologies, including vessel-mounted infrared (IR) cameras, to support nighttime visual monitoring. Monitoring data were collected using Mysticetus reporting hardware and software, allowing real-time remote access by both the client and MVI project management. All vessel tracks and protected species detections were geo-referenced and displayed on an interactive map of the lease area.
MVI also developed location- and operations-specific protected species crew awareness training, which was delivered to all newly onboarded personnel. Supplemental identification materials and mitigation summary placards were provided for use by bridge crews. Data were remotely reviewed by MVI project management staff for quality assurance and quality control (QA/QC). Daily progress reports summarizing PSO monitoring activities, species detections, and mitigation measures were submitted to client project management. Upon completion of the project, MVI prepared a comprehensive final protected species summary report addressing all applicable regulatory data reporting requirements on behalf of the client.