AGP Executive Report

Offshore wind legal fight hits Rhode Island: Rhode Island joined a growing coalition of states suing the Trump administration over offshore wind lease buyouts that would cancel projects and redirect about $1.4 billion in federal money toward fossil fuel and geothermal investments. Regional climate and storm watch: A powerful nor’easter is poised to bring dangerous coastal flooding, strong winds, and rough surf from the Carolinas through New England, with Rhode Island in the potential impact zone. State environmental enforcement upgrade: Rhode Island DEM’s Division of Law Enforcement received Rhode Island Police Accreditation Commission (RIPAC) accreditation, highlighting training, oversight, and accountability for protecting natural resources. Invasive species update: Spotted lanternflies are now established across all five Rhode Island counties, with the heaviest pressure in eastern Kent and eastern Providence and continued spread threatening vineyards and orchards. PFAS cookware debate in Maine (spillover relevance): A Maine nonstick cookware PFAS ban is being challenged in public debate, with toxicology claims arguing some fluoropolymer coatings differ from older PFAS chemicals.

Solar for All Court Win: A federal judge in Rhode Island ruled the EPA unlawfully canceled the $7 billion Solar for All program, ordering the agency to reinstate the already-obligated funding—meaning low-income solar help could resume in Rhode Island and nationwide. Disaster Relief for Farmers: DEM will release nearly $15M for Rhode Island farmers hit by weather in 2023 and 2024, with applications expected to open in early October. Coastal Storm Watch: Forecasters are tracking a possible nor’easter that could bring wet, windy conditions and coastal flooding later this week, with Rhode Island in the potential impact zone. DEM Environmental Police Accreditation: Rhode Island DEM’s environmental law enforcement division received RIPAC accreditation, highlighting training, oversight, and professionalism. Odor Enforcement Concerns: Residents and advocates raised questions about how odor complaints are handled and enforced in South Providence and Washington Park. Offshore Wind Training Uncertainty: Offshore wind job training built for a boom is facing a bust as federal clean-energy policy shifts threaten project pipelines. Local River Restoration: The Woonasquatucket River Watershed Council is pushing Greenway Bike Path restoration and native planting, with public involvement planned.

Solar for All Win in Federal Court: A U.S. District Court in Rhode Island ruled the EPA’s cancellation of the $7 billion “Solar for All” program was procedurally unlawful and ordered the funding reinstated, clearing the way for grants to resume in Rhode Island and nationwide. Disaster Relief for RI Farmers: DEM will distribute nearly $15 million in federal disaster relief to eligible Rhode Island farmers and agricultural producers hit by weather in 2023 and 2024, with applications expected to open in early October. PFAS Contamination Update: Officials found PFAS contamination in a well linked to a Little Compton fire station, with additional nearby wells also testing above state standards. Coastal Storm Watch: Forecasters are tracking a potential nor’easter that could bring heavy rain, coastal flooding, and damaging winds to Rhode Island and the broader Northeast later this week. Offshore Wind & Marine Life: New reporting highlights how offshore wind turbine foundations may be creating habitat for Jonah crabs, raising questions about whether turbines boost local populations or just concentrate them. Local Watershed Restoration: In Johnston, the Woonasquatucket River Watershed Council is pushing native plant restoration and Greenway Bike Path improvements, including river herring passage work.

Offshore Wind Milestone: Revolution Wind says it has installed all 65 turbines off Rhode Island, with full energization expected by year’s end—aimed at boosting winter reliability and powering about 350,000 homes. Clean Energy Courts: A Rhode Island federal judge ruled the EPA illegally canceled the $7 billion “Solar for All” program, reviving funding meant to cut bills for low-income households while the EPA weighs next steps. Coastal & Marine Impacts: Rhode Island-area offshore wind foundations are drawing marine life, including Jonah crabs, raising the big question of whether turbines create new habitat or just concentrate existing species. Local Infrastructure: RIDOT will open new “Missing Move” ramps in Quonset this Friday, plus a roundabout and safety upgrades, to reduce truck and car traffic on local roads. Weather Watch: Rhode Island’s forecast turns breezy and improving after Sunday rain, with highs in the mid-60s and a cooler week ahead.

Solar Power Court Win: A Rhode Island federal judge ruled the Trump EPA illegally terminated the $7 billion “Solar for All” program, reviving funding that could support solar access for more than 900,000 low-income Americans and potentially restoring about $243 million for Oregon and Washington. Clean Water Update: RIDOH and DEM lifted harmful algae bloom advisories at Lake Tiogue (Coventry) and Oak Swamp Reservoir (Johnston) after testing showed low algae levels and no detected toxins—though officials warn blooms can return fast. Offshore Wind & Wildlife: New reporting from Rhode Island Sound finds offshore wind turbine foundations may be creating marine habitat, with Jonah crabs showing up around installations—raising the question of whether turbines are boosting crab populations or just concentrating them. Climate Politics: Inside Climate News highlights Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse’s push to name fossil-fuel “villains” as federal climate rollbacks and permitting fights heat up ahead of midterms. Energy Policy Pressure: A separate report says hundreds of new chemicals are waiting on EPA approval, with manufacturers warning delays are pushing production overseas.

Solar for All Win in Rhode Island: A federal judge in Providence ruled the Trump EPA illegally terminated the $7B Solar for All program for low-income households, reviving funding tied to projects that could support hundreds of thousands of people and clean-energy jobs. Algae Advisory Lifted: RIDOH and DEM lifted harmful algae bloom warnings at Lake Tiogue (Coventry) and Oak Swamp Reservoir (Johnston) after testing found low algae and no toxins—though officials stress conditions can change fast. Offshore Wind Milestone Near Point Judith: Revolution Wind installed its final 65th turbine, moving the project toward full commercial operation later this year; it’s located about 15 nautical miles southeast of Point Judith and supplies power to Rhode Island and Connecticut. Climate Messaging and Costs: Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse pushed back on fossil-fuel influence and climate disinformation, arguing the “wake up” moment is now—because rising hazards and costs are already here. Weather Watch: Sunday brings damp, gray conditions with showers likely after midday and cooler-than-average temperatures, with a coastal low possible later in the week.

Solar for All Win in Rhode Island: A federal judge in Providence ruled the Trump EPA illegally terminated the $7 billion Solar for All program, which was meant to expand rooftop solar for low-income households—vacating the shutdown and reviving funding that could restore about $243 million for states including Oregon and Washington. Clean Water Update: RIDOH and DEM lifted harmful algae bloom advisories at Lake Tiogue (Coventry) and Oak Swamp Reservoir (Johnston) after testing showed low algae levels and no detected toxins, though officials warn blooms can return fast. Offshore Wind Milestone Near RI: Revolution Wind completed installation of its final offshore turbine near Point Judith, a step toward full commercial operation later this year, with the project supplying power to Rhode Island and Connecticut. Air Pollution Monitoring: NASA’s TEMPO satellite is providing near-real-time hourly “chemical weather” snapshots of pollutants across North America, helping track bad air days.

Solar for All Win in Federal Court: A Rhode Island judge ruled the Trump EPA illegally terminated the $7 billion Solar for All program, reviving grants that could restore about $243 million for solar projects serving low-income communities—Oregon and Washington are specifically cited. Clean Water Update: RIDOH and DEM lifted harmful algae bloom advisories at Lake Tiogue (Coventry) and Oak Swamp Reservoir (Johnston) after testing showed low algae and no detected toxins, while reminding residents blooms can return fast. Offshore Wind Milestone: Revolution Wind installed its final turbine near Point Judith, a step toward full operation later this year, with the project delivering power to Rhode Island and Connecticut. Local Climate & Resilience Pressure: In candidate Q&As for the RI General Assembly, erosion, flooding, pollution, and extreme heat are flagged as urgent issues—alongside affordability and the need to update micromobility rules. Waste Reduction Pilot: Rhode Island’s recycling pilot used shredded end-of-life boat fiberglass in cement production, diverting about 80 short tons and supported by a NOAA grant. Public Health Watch: Rabies cases are rising nationally, with Rhode Island among affected areas—pet owners are urged to stay vigilant and follow prevention guidance.

Offshore Wind Milestone: Revolution Wind finished installing its final turbine off Point Judith, a step toward full commercial operation later this year, with power shares for Rhode Island and Connecticut. Clean Energy Court Win: A Rhode Island federal judge ruled the Trump EPA unlawfully canceled the $7B “Solar for All” program for low-income households, vacating the termination and keeping the grants in play. Water Safety Update: RIDOH and DEM lifted harmful algae bloom advisories for Lake Tiogue (Coventry) and Oak Swamp Reservoir (Johnston) after testing showed low algae and no detected toxins—though officials warn blooms can return fast. Blue Economy in RI: A Rhode Island company is testing AI-powered, autonomous ferry-sized boats with a local fast-ferry partner, aiming to move beyond lab trials. Recycling Innovation: A Rhode Island pilot used shredded end-of-life boat fiberglass in cement production, diverting material from landfill with NOAA grant support. Outdoor Access Funding: DEM received a $1.2M federal grant to boost recreational fishing and boating participation through outreach, education, and local partnerships.

Election Participation: Rhode Island’s GOP gubernatorial primary results were certified, with turnout at just over 20% of registered voters—the highest in a decade—setting up the general election after Guckian declared victory. Mosquito-Borne Disease Watch: DEM and RIDOH confirmed more West Nile Virus detections in Newport, East Providence, Pawtucket, and Providence, keeping statewide risk high and urging mosquito-bite prevention. Coastal & Marine Habitat: A Rhode Island offshore wind research story highlights how submerged turbines can function like artificial reefs, potentially boosting habitat for species like Jonah crabs. Recreational Fishing & Boating: DEM won a $1.2M federal grant to expand fishing and boating participation statewide through outreach, education, and a new R3 council. Local Conservation Funding: A new Rhode Island charity license plate aims to support fresh, local, sustainable seafood by funding marine research via the Commercial Fisheries Research Foundation. Blue Economy Tech: Rhode Island is testing AI-powered, autonomous ferry-sized boats through a partnership using an ocean-going vessel for real-world trials. Outdoor Season: Apple picking is underway across Rhode Island, with multiple orchards opening for the fall harvest.

Mosquito Season Watch: Rhode Island DEM and RIDOH confirmed new West Nile Virus detections in Newport, East Providence, Pawtucket, and Providence from Sept. 8 mosquito samples, keeping the statewide risk level high and urging residents to prevent bites. Blue Economy Tech: A North Kingstown/Quonset-area push is underway as Blue Water Autonomy partners with Rhode Island Fast Ferry to test AI-powered, autonomous ferry navigation on the Atlantic Endurance. Offshore Wind & Wildlife: A University of Rhode Island report highlights how submerged offshore wind turbines can function like artificial reefs, with Jonah crabs among the species benefiting in Southern New England. Coastal & Waterways: Narragansett’s Gansett Days runs Sept. 18–20, including “What Lives in the River” with the Narrow River Preservation Association—hands-on seining and estuary education for families. Recreation Funding: DEM won a $1.2M U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service grant to boost recreational fishing and boating participation statewide through outreach and partnerships. Marine Cleanup Innovation: A Rhode Island pilot used a NOAA-backed program to recycle shredded fiberglass from old boats into cement material, showing a potential path away from landfill. Local Activism: Barrington Interfaith Partners marks its 10-year anniversary and plans an environmental justice forum tying faith and climate action.

Recreational Fishing Boost: Rhode Island DEM won a $1.2M U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service grant to grow recreational fishing and boating statewide, using outreach and partnerships to reduce barriers and support aquatic stewardship. Pell Bridge Toll Surprise: A report highlights how some Cybertruck owners are paying higher Pell Bridge tolls because their vehicle weight puts them above the discount threshold—an emissions-and-infrastructure angle for Rhode Island’s climate-minded drivers. Coastal Nitrogen Fight (Student-Led): A 17-year-old URI student is testing whether native sugar kelp can absorb excess nitrogen and help curb algal blooms along Rhode Island’s coast, turning research into advocacy. Plastic Waste Reality Check: A new look at marina “shrink-wrap” winterization questions what happens to the plastic film afterward and pushes for better, less landfill-bound options. Local Habitat Planning: URI students presented a final conceptual master plan for a new community park at 4 Richmond Townhouse Road, partnering with RIDEM’s Urban and Community Forestry program. PFAS Debate: A fresh argument says PFAS regulation may be too broad and should shift toward more targeted, substance-specific rules. Animal Welfare Update: Roger Williams Park Zoo reports a zebra died after a critical injury, with staff reviewing what happened in the enclosure.

Air Quality Tech: NASA’s TEMPO satellite is giving near-real-time, hourly views of “chemical weather,” helping track how wildfire smoke and other pollutants surge, move, and fade—useful for regulators and public health during bad air days. Flood Risk in Rhode Island: A Flash Flood Warning hit much of Rhode Island (and parts of Massachusetts) as heavy rain conditions were already occurring, with officials urging people to seek higher ground and avoid floodwaters. Wildlife & Public Safety: Roger Williams Park Zoo says a 27-year-old zebra, “Zipper,” died after a critical wound likely inflicted by a habitat mate; the zoo is reviewing the incident. Outdoor Recreation & Habitat: URI geosciences students are hosting the New England Intercollegiate Geological Conference with free public field trips, including a virtual look at Rhode Island’s ancient bedrock. Local Hunting Rules: Rhode Island DEM adjusted archery season timing in deer management zones, including earlier archery openings in Zone 2, aligning dates across hunting methods. Coastal Wetlands Restoration: LSU and URI are teaming up on EcoCARE, using AI-enabled tools to help communities plan and estimate costs for coastal wetland restoration in Rhode Island and Louisiana. Community Climate Policy Debate: A major EPA move would revoke greenhouse gas limits on power plants, drawing sharp criticism from environmental groups and Democrats over pollution and climate impacts.

Climate Policy: The U.S. EPA is moving to revoke greenhouse gas limits for coal and natural-gas power plants, arguing it will cut energy costs—while environmental groups warn it will mean dirtier air and worse climate impacts. Extreme Weather & Flooding: Rhode Island was under a Flash Flood Warning earlier this week as heavy rain threatened fast-rising water, with officials urging people to avoid flood-prone roads and stay off floodwaters. Local Water & Coasts: A Barrington kayak mystery appears to be tied to enforcement action after kayaks were found blocking a right-of-way; the case highlights ongoing pressure on coastal access and shoreline management. Wildlife & Hunting: Rhode Island DEM adjusted deer archery season timing in parts of the state, aligning dates across hunting methods based on updated population data. Wetlands Restoration Tech: URI and LSU are collaborating on EcoCARE, a coastal wetland restoration planning tool that lets the public run simulations for Louisiana and Rhode Island wetlands. Energy Costs & Efficiency: A new policy discussion points to Rhode Island’s recent pushback against cutting energy-efficiency investments, warning that short-term bill relief can backfire on long-term affordability. Community & Environment: URI geoscience students are hosting free public field trips tied to Rhode Island’s bedrock geology, continuing a long-running regional science tradition.

Flood Risk in RI: A Flash Flood Warning is in effect for much of Rhode Island until 1:45 p.m. Sunday, with heavy rain already driving fast-rising danger in the central part of the state, including Providence, Warwick, Warren, Newport, and parts of the south coast. Local Waterway Cleanup: Barrington says the “mystery” of missing kayaks is solved after the harbormaster ordered abandoned boats removed from a right-of-way, with owners given a deadline to clear them. Climate Policy Rollback: The U.S. EPA is revoking greenhouse gas limits for coal and natural gas power plants, a move critics say will worsen air pollution and climate impacts. Offshore Wind, Wildlife Questions: A new look at whether offshore wind turbines help or harm New England marine life focuses on impacts to local fisheries. Energy Affordability Fight: A policy debate highlights how states like Rhode Island are resisting cuts to energy-efficiency funding, warning that short-term bill relief can backfire long-term. RI Public Health Watch: RIDOH and DEM issued an advisory for Georgiaville Pond and Lower Melville Pond, urging people to avoid contact. Tech & Privacy: “Flock” license-plate camera concerns are sparking pushback in multiple places, raising data-privacy questions. Deer Hunting Update: DEM adjusted archery deer season timing in parts of Rhode Island, aligning dates across zones based on updated population data. Coastal Habitat Work: Ninigret Barrier Beach Restoration continues efforts to revive coastal habitat.

Offshore Wind & Wildlife: A new Rhode Island-focused explainer digs into what offshore wind turbines may be doing to marine life and local fisheries, noting Europe’s mixed findings and the push for New England-specific research. Renewables in the Region: Rhode Island Energy says it could receive 150 megawatts from a proposed 800-megawatt onshore wind project in northern Maine, pending Rhode Island Public Utilities Commission approvals. Crab & Ocean Questions: Another piece asks whether offshore wind turbines are helping New England’s crab population, reflecting growing scrutiny of wildlife impacts. Public Health—Harmful Algae: RIDOH and DEM lifted the “avoid contact” advisory for Georgiaville Pond in Smithfield after a harmful algae bloom cleared, while keeping warnings in place for Lower Melville Pond in Portsmouth. Energy Affordability: A policy analysis argues Rhode Island (and others) should protect energy-efficiency investments because cutting them for short-term bill relief can backfire later. Climate Rollback Fight: Reports say EPA plans to strip greenhouse gas limits for coal and gas power plants, drawing sharp criticism over pollution and climate impacts. Coastal Flooding Recap: New England’s recent extreme rain event brought flash-flood conditions, with Rhode Island towns like Coventry reporting heavy totals. Water & Waste: Woonsocket is moving toward a short-term sewage treatment takeover by Veolia while it works to shut down its sludge incinerator.