Introduction
A proposed project by SpaceX and the U.S. Air Force to test hypersonic rocket cargo deliveries from Johnston Atoll could endanger seabirds nesting in the wildlife refuge, raising concerns among biologists dedicated to their protection.
Context
The project comes after SpaceX's activities previously disrupted protected birds, notably during a Starship rocket launch in Texas that destroyed nests and eggs of plover shorebirds. The Air Force announced in March that Johnston Atoll, located nearly 800 miles southwest of Hawaii, has been chosen for the Rocket Cargo Vanguard program, which aims to land rocket re-entry vehicles capable of delivering cargo anywhere on Earth in about 90 minutes.
Developments
- Biologists warn that the project could overwhelm the atoll's 14 species of tropical birds.
- Roughly a million seabirds rely on the atoll's environment, which is home to various species, including red-tailed tropicbirds and great frigatebirds, increasing significantly from just a few thousand in the 1980s.
Hawaii-based biologist Steven Minamishin highlighted that any aviation activity could disturb the birds, while University of Texas wildlife biologist Ryan Rash raised concerns about the noise from rocket landings potentially causing anxiety among the birds, disrupting their nesting.
The project plans to construct two landing pads and execute 10 rocket landings over four years. The Air Force and SpaceX are currently preparing an environmental assessment, which is required for public comment under the National Environmental Policy Act before proceeding this year.
In a notice, the Air Force indicated that the project was unlikely to have significant environmental impacts but acknowledged potential harm to migratory birds. A spokesperson confirmed that consultations with the Fish and Wildlife Service and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's Marine Fisheries Service are ongoing to mitigate any environmental effects.
Musk is advising the President on government downsizing efforts. Biologists emphasize the importance of protecting the seabirds that depend on Johnston Atoll for nesting and survival, especially in a region where unpopulated land is threatened by rising sea levels.
Desirée Sorenson-Groves, president of the National Wildlife Refuge Association, stressed the significance of safeguarding these birds, noting that the remote islands are vital to their existence. Johnston Atoll, now closed to the public, has been managed as a wildlife refuge since its closure following nuclear testing and chemical munitions stockpiling.
Efforts to protect the wildlife have included eradicating invasive species like yellow-crazy ants, which were carried out by the Fish and Wildlife Service between 2010 and 2021. Eric Baker, a volunteer and wildlife photographer, expressed concern that the SpaceX project could undo years of conservation work.
"The nests and the birds there are just going to be kind of vaporized," Baker remarked.
Conclusion
As the SpaceX and U.S. Air Force proceed with their plans for rocket cargo deliveries, the potential impact on seabirds at Johnston Atoll raises serious environmental concerns that must be addressed to protect these vulnerable species.