Tribe Signs Benefits Agreement with Vineyard Offshore

A Tribal Benefits Agreement has been signed between the tribe and Vineyard Offshore; The agreement is aimed at promoting a comprehensive, long-term relationship, that highlights collaboration between Vineyard Offshore and the Tribe to ensure coordinated development and shared benefits. This is a historic agreement between an offshore wind company and a federally recognized tribe here in the northeast. The Tribal Benefit Agreement was formally ratified by Tribal Council on February 14, 2024 through resolution 2024-RES-008.

According to Chairman Weeden, this is an opportunity for the tribe to be heard in discussions surrounding renewable energy.

“This is an opportunity to make sure that not only do we have a seat at the table but also to make sure we work together to protect our Mother Earth and future generations. As a sovereign nation, we face the same challenges that so many nations face across the world with global warming, climate change, and much more. We stand committed to this administration's efforts for renewable energy, and this agreement is essential to doing that work collectively, nation to nation.”

Through this collaboration, the Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe Offshore Wind Community Fund has also been established. This fund will support various initiatives including scholarships, wastewater projects, language reclamation, workforce training, and importantly, tribal capacity to engage with offshore wind projects.

Vineyard Offshore says they commit to “honoring the Tribe's history and future aspirations, celebrates the opportunity to collaborate, and stands in support of the Tribe's sovereignty and self-determination.”

Read the full press release regarding the Benefits Agreement here.