THE NAVY’S ONGOING PROTECTIVE AND CONSERVATION MEASURES
Environmental protection efforts have been a standard component of Navy operations for decades, enabling vital Navy training while protecting the marine environment. The Navy has developed a sophisticated set of procedures and tools to avoid harm and minimize effects to marine species and habitats. To protect and safeguard the marine environment, all crew on Navy ships are thoroughly trained in and follow specific standard operating procedures.
Avoiding important habitats and Marine Protected Areas
Sargassum mats (floating seaweed), coral reefs and Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) are important habitats for marine species. Navy officers monitor for Sargassum mats, and must acknowledge the presence of coral reefs and MPAs in order to implement avoidance measures to ensure that none of these resources are affected.
Establishing standoff distances for marine species
Naval vessels avoid approaching whales head-on, and maneuver to keep at least 500 yards away from observed whales.
Implementing protective measures for North Atlantic right whales
Protection of the North Atlantic right whale is an issue of considerable concern and interest along the U.S. east coast. Navy personnel undergo comprehensive training to identify and spot North Atlantic right whales, which includes:
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Increasing crew member vigilance to avoid interaction with whales along the mid-Atlantic coast during migration and calving seasons.
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Employing consistent practices to avoid approaching any whale head-on and keeping at least 500 yards away from observed whales.
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Publicizing whale sightings in an early warning system to increase awareness among ocean users.
Posting shipboard lookouts
Navy shipboard lookouts (also referred to as “watchstanders”) are highly qualified and experienced observers of the marine environment. These personnel undergo extensive training and learn their role in environmental protection, laws governing the protection of marine species, and the Navy’s commitment to environmental stewardship.
Monitoring for marine species prior to training exercises
Navy personnel monitor the ocean area prior to training, both visually and acoustically, for marine mammal and sea turtle activity. If the animals are present, the Navy crew alters or suspends the training activity to minimize the potential for effects.
Practicing power reduction and sonar shut-off in designated safety zones
When marine mammals are detected within certain safety zones, the following reductions occur until either the animal has left the area, has not been detected for 30 minutes, or the vessel has moved more than 1,000 yards beyond the last detection:
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1,000 yards from sonar dome: 6 decibel reduction below normal operating levels
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500 yards from sonar dome: 10 decibel reduction below normal operating levels
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200 yards from sonar dome: Active sonar transmissions will cease.
Before resuming active sonar activity, operators ensure that the safety zone radius is clear of marine mammals.