NorthweSt training and testing eIS/oeIS

Marine Resource Protection

www.NwtteIS.com

Protecting the marine environment of the Pacific Northwest is an important goal for the U.S. Navy. In its commitment to this region, the Navy employs protective measures to reduce environmental effects from training and testing activities.
ProtectINg marINe SPecIeS at Sea DUrINg ShIPBoarD traININg
Scanning areas visually and monitoring with passive sonar, as appropriate, to detect the presence of marine species Posting at least three well-trained lookouts at all times for shipboard activities Posting additional lookouts before and during active hull-mounted sonar training Using all available sensors and optical systems during mid-frequency active sonar training Establishing a safety zone around a sonar source, and halting or delaying activities if marine mammals are observed within the zone Working closely with the National Marine Fisheries Service, including monitoring efforts during training, coordinating with the agency in the event of a stranding, and annual reporting of anti-submarine warfare activities and active sonar hours

ProtectINg marINe SPecIeS IN INLaND waterS

Conducting shore-to-shore surveillance of range site to see and report marine mammals in the area Establishing a safety zone around active acoustic activities, and halting or delaying activities if marine mammals are observed within the zone Placing qualified lookouts on vessels Monitoring for marine mammal vocalization when the proper equipment is available during the event Reporting marine mammal sightings

Supporting Independent marine Species research The Navy strives to be a world leader in marine species research and has provided more than $100 million to universities and researchers over the past five years. The Navy continues to improve environmental stewardship programs and protective measures as it learns more about marine species and the ocean.