U.S. Navy Marine Mammal Research

The U.S. Navy takes its environmental responsibilities seriously and is a world leader in marine mammal research.  The agency provides $10 - $14  million annually to universities, research institutions, federal laboratories, private companies, and independent researchers around the world. The U.S. Navy sponsors 70% of all U.S. research concerning the effects of human-generated sound on marine mammals and 50% of such research conducted worldwide. Major topics of Navy-supported research include:

• Understanding marine species distribution and important habitat areas
• Developing methods to detect and monitor marine species before and during training
• Understanding the effects of sound on marine mammals, sea turtles, and fish.
• Developing tools to model and estimate potential effects of sound.

DoD Research and Conservation Programs

• Strategic Environmental Research and Development Program (SERDP): A program that funds innovative environmental technologies for the Department of Defense (DoD).
• Environmental Security Technology Certification Program: A program that promotes innovative environmental technologies through demonstration and validation at DoD sites.
• Department of Defense (DoD) Legacy Program: This program provides financial assistance to the DoD efforts to preserve our natural and cultural heritage, assists DoD in protecting and enhancing resources while supporting military readiness.