[Federal Register Volume 78, Number 233 (Wednesday, December 4, 2013)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 73010-73073]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2013-27846]
[[Page 73009]]
Vol. 78
Wednesday,
No. 233
December 4, 2013
Part III
Department of Commerce
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
50 CFR Parts 216 and 218
Takes of Marine Mammals Incidental to Specified Activities; U.S. Navy
Training and Testing Activities in the Atlantic Fleet Training and
Testing Study Area; Final Rule
Federal Register / Vol. 78 , No. 233 / Wednesday, December 4, 2013 /
Rules and Regulations
[[Page 73010]]
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
50 CFR Parts 216 and 218
[Docket No. 130109022-3936-02]
RIN 0648-BC53
Takes of Marine Mammals Incidental to Specified Activities; U.S.
Navy Training and Testing Activities in the Atlantic Fleet Training and
Testing Study Area
AGENCY: National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS), National Oceanic and
Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), Commerce.
ACTION: Final rule.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
SUMMARY: Upon application from the U.S. Navy (Navy), we (the National
Marine Fisheries Service) are issuing regulations under the Marine
Mammal Protection Act to govern the unintentional taking of marine
mammals incidental to training and testing activities conducted in the
Atlantic Fleet Training and Testing (AFTT) Study Area from November
2013 through November 2018. These regulations allow us to issue Letters
of Authorization (LOA) for the incidental take of marine mammals during
the Navy's specified activities and timeframes, set forth the
permissible methods of taking, set forth other means of effecting the
least practicable adverse impact on marine mammal species or stocks and
their habitat, and set forth requirements pertaining to the monitoring
and reporting of the incidental take.
DATES: Effective date: December 3, 2013.
Applicability date: November 14, 2013 through November 13, 2018.
ADDRESSES: To obtain an electronic copy of the Navy's application, our
Record of Decision, or other referenced documents, visit the internet
at: http://www.nmfs.noaa.gov/pr/permits/incidental.htm#applications.
Documents cited in this notice may also be viewed, by appointment,
during regular business hours, at the aforementioned 1315 East West
Highway, Silver Spring, MD 20910.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Brian D. Hopper, Office of Protected
Resources, NMFS, (301) 427-8401.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Availability
A copy of the Navy's application may be obtained by visiting the
internet at: http://www.nmfs.noaa.gov/pr/permits/incidental.htm#applications. The Navy's Final Environmental Impact
Statement/Overseas Environmental Impact Statement (FEIS/OEIS) for AFTT
may be viewed at http://www.aftteis.com. Documents cited in this notice
may also be viewed, by appointment, during regular business hours, at
the aforementioned address.
Background
Section 101(a)(5)(A) of the MMPA (16 U.S.C. 1361 et seq.) directs
the Secretary of Commerce to allow, upon request, the incidental, but
not intentional, taking of small numbers of marine mammals by U.S.
citizens who engage in a specified activity (other than commercial
fishing) within a specified geographical region if certain findings are
made and regulations are issued. We are required to grant authorization
for the incidental taking of marine mammals if we find that the total
taking will have a negligible impact on the species or stock(s) and
will not have an unmitigable adverse impact on the availability of the
species or stock(s) for subsistence uses (where relevant). We must also
set forth the permissible methods of taking and requirements pertaining
to the mitigation, monitoring, and reporting of such takings. NMFS has
defined negligible impact in 50 CFR 216.103 as ``an impact resulting
from the specified activity that cannot be reasonably expected to, and
is not reasonably likely to, adversely affect the species or stock
through effects on annual rates of recruitment or survival.''
The National Defense Authorization Act of 2004 (NDAA) (Pub. L. 108-
136) amended section 101(a)(5)(A) of the MMPA by removing the small
numbers and specified geographical region provisions; and amended the
definition of ``harassment'' as it applies to a ``military readiness
activity'' to read as follows (section 3(18)(B) of the MMPA): ``(i) Any
act that injures or has the significant potential to injure a marine
mammal or marine mammal stock in the wild [Level A Harassment]; or (ii)
any act that disturbs or is likely to disturb a marine mammal or marine
mammal stock in the wild by causing disruption of natural behavioral
patterns, including, but not limited to, migration, surfacing, nursing,
breeding, feeding, or sheltering, to a point where such behavioral
patterns are abandoned or significantly altered [Level B Harassment].''
Summary of Request
On April 13, 2012, NMFS received an application from the Navy
requesting two LOAs for the take of 42 species of marine mammals
incidental to Navy training and testing activities to be conducted in
the AFTT Study Area over 5 years. The Navy submitted addendums on
September 24, 2012 and December 21, 2012, and NMFS considered the
application complete. The Navy requests authorization to take marine
mammals by Level A and Level B harassment and mortality during training
and testing activities. The Study Area includes several existing study
areas, range complexes, and testing ranges (Atlantic Fleet Active Sonar
Training (AFAST), Northeast, Virginia Capes (VACAPES), Cherry Point
(CHPT), Jacksonville (JAX), Gulf of Mexico (GOMEX), Naval Surface
Warfare Center, Panama City, Naval Undersea Warfare Center Newport,
South Florida Ocean Measurement Facility (SFOMF), and Key West) plus
pierside locations and areas on the high seas where maintenance,
training, or testing may occur. These activities are considered
military readiness activities. Marine mammals present in the Study Area
may be exposed to sound from active sonar and underwater detonations.
In addition, incidental takes of marine mammals may occur from ship
strikes. The Navy requests authorization to take 42 marine mammal
species by Level B harassment and 32 marine mammal species by Level A
harassment. In addition, the Navy requests authorization for take by
serious injury or mortality individuals of 16 marine mammal species due
to the use of explosives, and 11 total marine mammals (any species
except North Atlantic right whale) over the course of the 5-year rule
due to vessel strike.
The Navy's application and the AFTT FEIS/OEIS contain acoustic
thresholds that, in some instances, represent changes from what NMFS
has used to evaluate the Navy's activities for previous authorizations.
The revised thresholds, which the Navy developed in coordination with
NMFS, are based on the evaluation and inclusion of new information from
recent scientific studies; a detailed explanation of how they were
derived is provided in the AFTT FEIS/OEIS Criteria and Thresholds
Technical Report. The revised thresholds are adopted for this
rulemaking after providing the public with an opportunity for review
and comment via the proposed rule for this action published on January
31, 2013 (78 FR 7050).
Further, more generally, NMFS is committed to the use of the best
available science. NMFS uses an adaptive transparent process that
allows for both timely scientific updates and public input into agency
decisions regarding the use of acoustic research and thresholds. NMFS
is currently in the process of re-evaluating acoustic
[[Page 73011]]
thresholds based on the best available science, as well as how these
thresholds are applied under the MMPA to all activity types (not just
for Navy activities). This re-evaluation could potentially result in
changes to the acoustic thresholds or their application as they apply
to future Navy activities. However, it is important to note that while
changes in acoustic criteria may affect the enumeration of ``takes,''
they do not necessarily change the evaluation of population level
effects or the outcome of the negligible impact analysis. In addition,
while acoustic criteria may also inform mitigation and monitoring
decisions, the Navy has a robust adaptive management program that
regularly addresses new information and allows for modification of
mitigation and/or monitoring measures as appropriate.
Description of Specified Activities
The proposed rule (78 FR 7050, January 31, 2013) and AFTT FEIS/OEIS
include a complete description of the Navy's specified activities that
are being authorized in this final rule. Sonar use, underwater
detonations, and ship strike are the stressors most likely to result in
impacts on marine mammals that could rise to the level of harassment,
thus necessitating MMPA authorization. Below we summarize the
description of the specified activities.
Overview of Training Activities
Training activities are categorized into eight functional warfare
areas (anti-air warfare; amphibious warfare; strike warfare; anti-
surface warfare; anti-submarine warfare; electronic warfare; mine
warfare; and naval special warfare). The Navy determined that the
following stressors used in these warfare areas are most likely to
result in impacts on marine mammals:
Amphibious warfare (underwater detonations)
Anti-surface warfare (underwater detonations)
Anti-submarine warfare (active sonar, underwater detonations)
Mine warfare (active sonar, underwater detonations)
Naval special warfare (underwater detonations)
Overview of Testing Activities
Testing activities may occur independently of or in conjunction
with training activities. Many testing activities are conducted
similarly to Navy training activities and are also categorized under
one of the primary mission areas. Other testing activities are unique
and are described within their specific testing categories. The Navy
determined that stressors used during the following testing activities
are most likely to result in impacts on marine mammals:
Naval Air Systems Command (NAVAIR) Testing
[cir] Anti-surface warfare testing (underwater detonations)
[cir] Anti-submarine warfare testing (active sonar, underwater
detonations)
[cir] Mine warfare testing (active sonar, underwater detonations)
Naval Sea Systems Command (NAVSEA) Testing
[cir] New ship construction (active sonar, underwater detonations)
[cir] Shock trials (underwater detonations)
[cir] Life cycle activities (active sonar, underwater detonations)
[cir] Range activities (active sonar, underwater detonations)
[cir] Anti-surface warfare/anti-submarine warfare testing (active
sonar, underwater detonations)
[cir] Mine warfare testing (active sonar, underwater detonations)
[cir] Ship protection systems and swimmer defense testing (active
sonar)
[cir] Unmanned vehicle testing (active sonar)
[cir] Other testing (active sonar)
Office of Naval Research (ONR) and Naval Research Laboratory
(NRL) Testing
[cir] ONR/NRL research, development, test, and evaluation (active
sonar)
Classification of Non-Impulsive and Impulsive Sources Analyzed
In order to better organize and facilitate the analysis of about
300 sources of underwater non-impulsive sound or impulsive energy, the
Navy developed a series of source classifications, or source bins. This
method of analysis provides the following benefits:
Allows for new sources to be covered under existing
authorizations, as long as those sources fall within the parameters of
a ``bin;''
Simplifies the data collection and reporting requirements
anticipated under the MMPA;
Ensures a conservative approach to all impact analysis
because all sources in a single bin are modeled as the loudest source
(e.g., lowest frequency, highest source level, longest duty cycle, or
largest net explosive weight within that bin);
Allows analysis to be conducted more efficiently, without
compromising the results;
Provides a framework to support the reallocation of source
usage (hours/explosives) between different source bins, as long as the
total number and severity of marine mammal takes remain within the
overall analyzed and authorized limits. This flexibility is required to
support evolving Navy training and testing requirements, which are
linked to real world events.
A description of each source classification is provided in Tables
1, 2, and 3. Non-impulsive sources are grouped into bins based on the
frequency, source level when warranted, and how the source would be
used. Impulsive bins are based on the net explosive weight of the
munitions or explosive devices. The following factors further describe
how non-impulsive sources are divided:
Frequency of the non-impulsive source:
[cir] Low-frequency sources operate below 1 kilohertz (kHz)
[cir] Mid-frequency sources operate at or above 1 kHz, up to and
including 10 kHz
[cir] High-frequency sources operate above 10 kHz, up to and
including 100 kHz
[cir] Very high-frequency sources operate above 100 kHz, but below
200 kHz
Source level of the non-impulsive source:
[cir] Greater than 160 decibels (dB), but less than 180 dB
[cir] Equal to 180 dB and up to 200 dB
[cir] Greater than 200 dB
How a sensor is used determines how the sensor's acoustic emissions
are analyzed. Factors to consider include pulse length (time source is
on); beam pattern (whether sound is emitted as a narrow, focused beam,
or whether sound is emitted in all directions); and duty cycle (how
often a transmission occurs in a given time period during an event).
There are also non-impulsive sources with characteristics that are
not anticipated to result in takes of marine mammals. These sources
have low source levels, narrow beam widths, downward directed
transmissions, short pulse lengths, frequencies beyond known hearing
ranges of marine mammals, or some combination of these factors. These
sources were not modeled by the Navy, but are qualitatively analyzed in
Table 1-5 of the LOA application and the AFTT FEIS/OEIS.
[[Page 73012]]
Table 1--Impulsive Training and Testing Source Classes Analyzed for
Annual Activities
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net explosive
Source class Representative munitions weight (lbs)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
E1....................... Medium-caliber 0.1-0.25 (45.4-
projectiles. 113.4 g).
E2....................... Medium-caliber 0.26-0.5 (117.9-
projectiles. 226.8 g).
E3....................... Large-caliber >0.5-2.5 (>226.8 g-
projectiles. 1.1 kg).
E4....................... Improved Extended Echo >2.5-5.0 (1.1-2.3
Ranging Sonobuoy. kg).
E5....................... 5 in. (12.7 cm) >5-10 (>2.3-4.5
projectiles. kg).
E6....................... 15 lb. (6.8 kg) shaped >10-20 (>4.5-9.1
charge. kg).
E7....................... 40 lb. (18.1 kg) demo >20-60 (>9.1-27.2
block/shaped charge. kg).
E8....................... 250 lb. (113.4 kg) bomb. >60-100 (>27.2-45.4
kg).
E9....................... 500 lb. (226.8 kg) bomb. >100-250 (>45.4-
113.4 kg).
E10...................... 1,000 lb. (453.6 kg) >250-500 (>113.4-
bomb. 226.8 kg).
E11...................... 650 lb. (294.8 kg) mine. >500-650 (>226.8-
294.8 kg).
E12...................... 2,000 lb. (907.2 kg) >650-1,000 (>294.8-
bomb. 453.6 kg).
E13...................... 1,200 lb. (544.3 kg) HBX >1,000-1,740
charge. (>453.6-789.3 kg).
E14...................... 2,500 lb HBX charge..... >1,740-3,625.
E15...................... 5,000 lb HBX charge..... >3,625-7,250.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Table 2--Active Acoustic (Non-Impulsive) Source Classes Analyzed for
Annual Activities
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Source class category Source class Description
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Low-Frequency (LF): Sources LF3................. Low-frequency
that produce low-frequency LF4................. sources greater
(less than 1 kHz) signals. than 200 dB.
Low-frequency
sources equal to
180 dB and up to
200 dB.
LF5................. Low-frequency
sources greater
than 160 dB, but
less than 180 dB.
Mid-Frequency (MF): Tactical MF1................. Hull-mounted surface
and non-tactical sources MF1K................ ship sonar (e.g.,
that produce mid-frequency AN/SQS-53C and AN/
(1 to 10 kHz) signals. SQS-60).
Kingfisher mode
associated with MF1
sonar.
MF2................. Hull-mounted surface
ship sonar (e.g.,
AN/SQS-56).
MF2K................ Kingfisher mode
associated with MF2
sonar.
MF3................. Hull-mounted
submarine sonar
(e.g., AN/BQQ-10).
MF4................. Helicopter-deployed
dipping sonar
(e.g., AN/AQS-22
and AN/AQS-13).
MF5................. Active acoustic
sonobuoys (e.g.,
DICASS).
MF6................. Active sound
underwater signal
devices (e.g., MK-
84).
MF8................. Active sources
(greater than 200
dB) not otherwise
binned.
MF9................. Active sources
(equal to 180 dB
and up to 200 dB)
not otherwise
binned.
MF10................ Active sources
(greater than 160
dB, but less than
180 dB) not
otherwise binned.
MF11................ Hull-mounted surface
ship sonar with an
active duty cycle
greater than 80%.
MF12................ Towed array surface
ship sonar with an
active duty cycle
greater than 80%.
High-Frequency (HF): HF1................. Hull-mounted
Tactical and non-tactical HF2................. submarine sonar
sources that produce high- (e.g., AN/BQQ-10).
frequency (greater than 10 High-Frequency
kHz but less than 200 kHz) Marine Mammal
signals. Monitoring System.
HF3................. Other hull-mounted
submarine sonar
(classified).
HF4................. Mine detection and
classification
sonar (e.g.,
Airborne Towed
Minehunting Sonar
System).
HF5................. Active sources
(greater than 200
dB) not otherwise
binned.
HF6................. Active sources
(equal to 180 dB
and up to 200 dB)
not otherwise
binned.
HF7................. Active sources
(greater than 160
dB, but less than
180 dB) not
otherwise binned.
HF8................. Hull-mounted surface
ship sonar (e.g.,
AN/SQS-61).
Anti-Submarine Warfare ASW1................ Mid-frequency Deep
(ASW): Tactical sources ASW2................ Water Active
such as active sonobuoys Distributed System
and acoustic (DWADS).
countermeasures systems Mid-frequency
used during the conduct of Multistatic Active
anti-submarine warfare Coherent sonobuoy
training and testing (e.g., AN/SSQ-125)--
activities. Sources that are
analyzed by item.
ASW2................ Mid-frequency
Multistatic Active
Coherent sonobuoy
(e.g., AN/SSQ-125)--
Sources that are
analyzed by hours.
ASW3................ Mid-frequency towed
active acoustic
countermeasure
systems (e.g., AN/
SLQ-25).
ASW4................ Mid-frequency
expendable active
acoustic device
countermeasures
(e.g., MK-3).
Torpedoes (TORP): Source TORP1............... Lightweight torpedo
classes associated with the .................... (e.g., MK-46, MK-
active acoustic signals TORP2............... 54, or Anti-Torpedo
produced by torpedoes. Torpedo).
Heavyweight torpedo
(e.g., MK-48).
Doppler Sonars (DS): Sonars DS1................. Low-frequency
that use the Doppler effect Doppler sonar
to aid in navigation or (e.g., Webb
collect oceanographic Tomography Source).
information.
[[Page 73013]]
Forward Looking Sonar (FLS): FLS2-FLS3........... High-frequency
Forward or upward looking sources with short
object avoidance sonars. pulse lengths,
narrow beam widths,
and focused beam
patterns used for
navigation and
safety of ships.
Acoustic Modems (M): Systems M3.................. Mid-frequency
used to transmit data acoustic modems
acoustically through the (greater than 190
water. dB).
Swimmer Detection Sonars SD1-SD2............. High-frequency
(SD): Systems used to sources with short
detect divers and submerged pulse lengths, used
swimmers. for detection of
swimmers and other
objects for the
purposes of port
security.
Synthetic Aperture Sonars SAS1................ MF SAS systems.
(SAS): Sonars in which SAS2................ HF SAS systems.
active acoustic signals are SAS3................ VHF SAS systems.
post-processed to form high-
resolution images of the
seafloor.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Table 3--Explosive Source Classes Analyzed for Non-Annual Training and
Testing Activities
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net explosive
Source class Representative munitions weight \1\ (lbs)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
E1........................ Medium-caliber 0.1-0.25
projectiles.
E2........................ Medium-caliber 0.26-0.5
projectiles.
E4........................ Improved Extended Echo 2.6-5
Ranging Sonobuoy.
E16....................... 10,000 lb. HBX charge.... 7,251-14,500
E17....................... 40,000 lb. HBX charge.... 14,501-58,000
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Table 4--Active Acoustic (Non-Impulsive) Sources Analyzed for Non-Annual
Training and Testing
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Source class category Source class Description
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Low-Frequency (LF): Sources LF5................. Low-frequency
that produce low-frequency sources greater
(less than 1 kHz) signals. than 160 dB, but
less than 180 dB.
Mid-Frequency (MF): Tactical MF9................. Active sources
and non-tactical sources (equal to 180 dB
that produce mid-frequency and up to 200 dB)
(1 to 10 kHz) signals. not otherwise
binned.
High-Frequency (HF): HF4................. Mine detection and
Tactical and non-tactical HF5................. classification
sources that produce high- HF6................. sonar (e.g., AN/AQS-
frequency (greater than 10 20).
kHz but less than 180 kHz) Active sources
signals. (greater than 200
dB) not otherwise
binned.
Active sources
(equal to 180 dB
and up to 200 dB)
not otherwise
binned.
HF7................. Active sources
(greater than 160
dB, but less than
180 dB) not
otherwise binned.
Forward Looking Sonar (FLS): FLS2-FLS3........... High-frequency
Forward or upward looking sources with short
object avoidance sonars. pulse lengths,
narrow beam widths,
and focused beam
patterns used for
navigation and
safety of ships.
Sonars (SAS): Sonars in SAS2................ HF SAS systems.
which active acoustic
signals are post-processed
to form high-resolution
images of the seafloor.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Authorized Action
Training
The Navy's training activities in the AFTT Study Area are described
in Table 5. Detailed information about each activity (stressor,
training event, description, sound source, duration, and geographic
location) can be found in Appendix A of the AFTT FEIS/OEIS.
Table 5--Training Activities Within the Study Area
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Number of events per
Stressor Training event Description Source class year
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW)
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Non-Impulsive............. Tracking Exercise/ Submarine crews ASW4; MF3; HF1; 102.
Torpedo search, track, and TORP2.
Exercise--Submar detect submarines.
ine (TRACKEX/ Exercise torpedoes
TORPEX--Sub). may be used during
this event.
Non-Impulsive............. Tracking Exercise/ Surface ship crews ASW1,3,4; 764.
Torpedo search, track and MF1,2,3,4,5,11,1
Exercise--Surfac detect submarines. 2; HF1; TORP1.
e (TRACKEX/ Exercise torpedoes
TORPEX--Surface). may be used during
this event.
Non-Impulsive............. Tracking Exercise/ Helicopter crews ASW4; MF4,5; 432.
Torpedo search, detect and TORP1.
Exercise--Helico track submarines.
pter (TRACKEX/ Recoverable air
TORPEX--Helo). launched torpedoes
may be employed
against submarine
targets.
[[Page 73014]]
Non-Impulsive............. Tracking Exercise/ Maritime patrol MF5; TORP1....... 752.
Torpedo aircraft crews
Exercise--Mariti search, detect, and
me Patrol track submarines.
Aircraft Recoverable air
(TRACKEX/TORPEX-- launched torpedoes
MPA). may be employed
against submarine
targets.
Non-Impulsive............. Tracking Maritime patrol ASW2............. 160.
Exercise--Mariti aircraft crews
me Patrol search, detect, and
Aircraft track submarines with
Extended Echo extended echo ranging
Ranging Sonobuoy sonobuoys.
(TRACKEX--MPA Recoverable air
sonobuoy). launched torpedoes
may be employed
against submarine
targets.
Non-Impulsive............. Anti-Submarine Multiple ships, ASW3,4; HF1; 4.
Warfare Tactical aircraft and MF1,2,3,4,5.
Development submarines coordinate
Exercise. their efforts to
search, detect and
track submarines with
the use of all
sensors. Anti-
Submarine Warfare
Tactical Development
Exercise is a
dedicated ASW event.
Non-Impulsive............. Integrated Anti- Multiple ships, ASW 2,3,4; HF1; 5.
Submarine aircraft, and MF1,2,3,4,5,6.
Warfare Course submarines coordinate
(IAC). the use of their
sensors, including
sonobuoys, to search,
detect and track
threat submarines.
IAC is an
intermediate level
training event and
can occur in
conjunction with
other major exercises.
Non-Impulsive............. Group Sail....... Multiple ships and ASW 2,3; HF1; 20.
helicopters integrate MF1,2,3,4,5,6.
the use of sensors,
including sonobuoys,
to search, detect and
track a threat
submarine. Group
sails are not
dedicated ASW events
and involve multiple
warfare areas.
Non-Impulsive............. ASW for Composite Anti-Submarine Warfare ASW 2,3,4; HF1; 5.
Training Unit activities conducted MF1,2,3,4,5,6,12.
Exercise during a COMPTUEX.
(COMPTUEX).
Non-Impulsive............. ASW for Joint Anti-Submarine Warfare ASW2,3,4; HF1; 4.
Task Force activities conducted MF1,2,3,4,5,6,12.
Exercise (JTFEX)/ during a JTFEX/
Sustainment SUSTAINEX.
Exercise
(SUSTAINEX).
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Mine Warfare (MIW)
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Non-Impulsive............. Mine Littoral combat ship HF4.............. 116.
Countermeasures crews detect and
Exercise (MCM)-- avoid mines while
Ship Sonar. navigating restricted
areas or channels
using active sonar.
Non-Impulsive............. Mine Ship crews and HF4.............. 2,538.
Countermeasures- helicopter aircrews
-Mine Detection. detect mines using
towed and laser mine
detection systems
(e.g., AN/AQS-20,
ALMDS).
Non-Impulsive............. Coordinated Unit Helicopters aircrew HF4.............. 8.
Level Helicopter members train as a
Airborne Mine squadron in the use
Countermeasure of airborne mine
Exercises. countermeasures, such
as towed mine
detection and
neutralization
systems.
Non-Impulsive............. Civilian Port Maritime security HF4.............. 1 event every other
Defense. operations for year.
military and civilian
ports and harbors.
Marine mammal systems
may be used during
the exercise.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Other Training Activities
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Non-Impulsive............. Submarine Submarine crews locate HF1; MF3......... 282.
Navigational underwater objects
(SUB NAV). and ships while
transiting in and out
of port.
Non-Impulsive............. Submarine Submarine crews train HF1.............. 24.
Navigation Under to operate under ice.
Ice During training and
Certification. certification other
submarines and ships
simulate ice.
Non-Impulsive............. Surface Ship Surface ship crews MF1K; MF2K....... 144.
Object Detection. locate underwater
objects that may
impede transit in and
out of port.
Non-Impulsive............. Surface Ship Pierside and at-sea MF1,2............ 824.
Sonar maintenance of sonar
Maintenance. systems.
Non-Impulsive............. Submarine Sonar Pierside and at-sea MF3.............. 220.
Maintenance. maintenance of sonar
systems.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
[[Page 73015]]
Amphibious Warfare (AMW)
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Impulsive................. Naval Surface Surface ship crews use E5............... 50.
Fire Support large-caliber guns to
Exercise--At Sea support forces
(FIREX [At Sea]). ashore; however, the
land target is
simulated at sea.
Rounds impact the
water and are scored
by passive acoustic
hydrophones located
at or near the target
area.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Anti-Surface Warfare (ASUW)
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Impulsive................. Maritime Security Boat crews engage in E2............... 12.
Operations force protection
(MSO)--Anti- activities by using
swimmer Grenades. anti-swimmer grenades
to defend against
hostile divers (e.g.,
Visit, Board, Search,
and Seizure; Maritime
Interdiction
Operations; Force
Protection; and Anti-
Piracy Operation).
Impulsive................. Gunnery Exercise Ship crews engage E1; E2........... 827.
(Surface-to- surface targets with
Surface) (Ship)-- ship's medium-caliber
Medium-Caliber guns.
(GUNEX [S-S]--
Ship).
Impulsive................. Gunnery Exercise Ship crews engage E3; E5........... 294.
(Surface-to- surface targets with
Surface) (Ship)-- ship's large-caliber
Large-Caliber guns.
(GUNEX [S-S]--
Ship).
Impulsive................. Gunnery Exercise Small boat crews E1; E2........... 434.
(Surface-to- engage surface
Surface) (Boat) targets with medium-
(GUNEX [S-S]-- caliber guns.
Boat Medium-
Caliber).
Impulsive................. Missile Exercise Surface ship crews E10.............. 20.
(Surface-to- defend against threat
Surface) missiles and other
(MISSILEX [S-S]). surface ships with
missiles.
Impulsive................. Gunnery Exercise Fixed-wing and E1; E2........... 715.
(Air-to-Surface) helicopter aircrews,
(GUNEX [A-S] including embarked
Medium-Caliber). personnel, use medium-
caliber guns to
engage surface
targets.
Impulsive................. Missile Exercise Fixed-wing and E5............... 210.
(Air-to- helicopter aircrews
Surface)--Rocket fire both precision-
(MISSILEX [A-S]). guided missiles and
unguided rockets
against surface
targets.
Impulsive................. Missile Exercise Fixed-wing and E6; E8........... 248.
(Air-to-Surface) helicopter aircrews
(MISSILEX [A-S]). fire both precision-
guided missiles and
unguided rockets
against surface
targets.
Impulsive................. Bombing Exercise Fixed-wing aircrews E8; E9; E10; E12. 930.
(Air-to-Surface) deliver bombs against
(BOMBEX [A-S]). surface targets.
Impulsive................. Sinking Exercise Aircraft, ship, and E3; E5; E8; E9; 1.
(SINKEX). submarine crews E10; E11; E12.
deliver ordnance on a
seaborne target,
usually a deactivated
ship, which is
deliberately sunk
using multiple weapon
systems.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW)
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Impulsive................. Tracking Maritime patrol E4............... 160.
Exercise--Mariti aircraft crews
me Patrol search, detect, and
Aircraft track submarines with
Extended Echo extended echo ranging
Ranging Sonobuoy sonobuoys.
(TRACKEX--MPA Recoverable air
sonobuoy). launched torpedoes
may be employed
against submarine
targets.
Impulsive................. Group Sail....... Multiple ships and E4............... 20.
helicopters integrate
the use of sensors,
including sonobuoys,
to search, detect and
track a threat
submarine. Group
sails are not
dedicated ASW events
and involve multiple
warfare areas.
Impulsive................. ASW for Composite Anti-Submarine Warfare E4............... 6.
Training Unit activities conducted
Exercise during a COMPTUEX.
(COMPTUEX).
Impulsive................. ASW for Joint Anti-Submarine Warfare E4............... 4.
Task Force activities conducted
Exercise (JTFEX)/ during a JTFEX/
Sustainment SUSTAINEX.
Exercise
(SUSTAINEX).
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Mine Warfare (MIW)
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Impulsive................. Explosive Personnel disable E1; E4; E5; E6; 618.
Ordnance threat mines. E7; E8.
Disposal (EOD)/ Explosive charges may
Mine be used.
Neutralization.
Impulsive................. Mine Ship crews and E4............... 762.
Countermeasures- helicopter aircrews
-Mine disable mines using
Neutralization-- remotely operated
Remotely underwater vehicles.
Operated
Vehicles.
[[Page 73016]]
Impulsive................. Civilian Port Maritime security E2; E4........... 1 event every other
Defense. operations for year.
military and civilian
ports and harbors.
Marine mammal systems
may be used during
the exercise.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Testing
The Navy's testing activities are described in Tables 6 and 7.
Table 6--Naval Air Systems Command Testing Activities Within the Study Area
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Number of events per
Stressor Testing event Description Source class year
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW)
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Non-Impulsive............. Anti-Submarine This event is similar TORP1............ 242.
Warfare Torpedo to the training event
Test. Torpedo Exercise. The
test evaluates anti-
submarine warfare
systems onboard
rotary wing and fixed
wing aircraft and the
ability to search
for, detect,
classify, localize,
and track a submarine
or similar target.
Non-Impulsive............. Kilo Dip......... A kilo dip is the MF4.............. 43.
operational term used
to describe a
functional check of a
helicopter deployed
dipping sonar system.
The sonar system is
briefly activated to
ensure all systems
are functional. A
kilo dip is simply a
precursor to more
comprehensive testing.
Non-Impulsive............. Sonobuoy Lot Sonobuoys are deployed ASW2; MF5,6...... 39.
Acceptance Test. from surface vessels
and aircraft to
verify the integrity
and performance of a
lot, or group, of
sonobuoys in advance
of delivery to the
Fleet for operational
use.
Non-Impulsive............. ASW Tracking This event is similar MF4,5............ 428.
Test--Helicopter. to the training event
anti-submarine
warfare Tracking
Exercise--Helicopter.
The test evaluates
the sensors and
systems used to
detect and track
submarines and to
ensure that
helicopter systems
used to deploy the
tracking systems
perform to
specifications.
Non-Impulsive............. ASW Tracking This event is similar ASW2; MF5,6...... 75.
Test--Maritime to the training event
Patrol Aircraft. anti-submarine
warfare Tracking
Exercise--Maritime
Patrol Aircraft. The
test evaluates the
sensors and systems
used by maritime
patrol aircraft to
detect and track
submarines and to
ensure that aircraft
systems used to
deploy the tracking
systems perform to
specifications and
meet operational
requirements.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Mine Warfare (MIW)
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Non-Impulsive............. Airborne Towed Tests of the Airborne HF4.............. 155.
Minehunting Towed Minehunting
Sonar System Sonar System to
Test. evaluate the search
capabilities of this
towed, mine hunting,
detection, and
classification
system. The sonar on
the Airborne Towed
Minehunting Sonar
System identifies
mine-like objects in
the deeper parts of
the water column.
[[Page 73017]]
Anti-Surface Warfare (ASUW)
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Impulsive................. Air to Surface This event is similar E6; E10.......... 239.
Missile Test. to the training event
Missile Exercise Air
to Surface. Test may
involve both fixed
wing and rotary wing
aircraft launching
missiles at surface
maritime targets to
evaluate the weapons
system or as part of
another systems
integration test.
Impulsive................. Air to Surface This event is similar E1............... 165.
Gunnery Test. to the training event
Gunnery Exercise Air
to Surface. Strike
fighter and
helicopter aircrews
evaluate new or
enhanced aircraft
guns against surface
maritime targets to
test that the gun,
gun ammunition, or
associated systems
meet required
specifications or to
train aircrew in the
operation of a new or
enhanced weapons
system.
Impulsive................. Rocket Test...... Rocket testing E5............... 332.
evaluates the
integration,
accuracy,
performance, and safe
separation of laser-
guided and unguided
2.75-in rockets fired
from a hovering or
forward flying
helicopter or from a
fixed wing strike
aircraft.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW)
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Impulsive................. Sonobuoy Lot Sonobuoys are deployed E3; E4........... 39.
Acceptance Test. from surface vessels
and aircraft to
verify the integrity
and performance of a
lot, or group, of
sonobuoys in advance
of delivery to the
Fleet for operational
use.
Impulsive................. ASW Tracking This event is similar E3............... 428.
Test--Helicopter. to the training event
anti-submarine
warfare Tracking
Exercise--Helicopter.
The test evaluates
the sensors and
systems used to
detect and track
submarines and to
ensure that
helicopter systems
used to deploy the
tracking systems
perform to
specifications.
Impulsive................. ASW Tracking This event is similar E3; E4........... 75.
Test--Maritime to the training event
Patrol Aircraft. anti-submarine
warfare Tracking
Exercise--Maritime
Patrol Aircraft. The
test evaluates the
sensors and systems
used by maritime
patrol aircraft to
detect and track
submarines and to
ensure that aircraft
systems used to
deploy the tracking
systems perform to
specifications and
meet operational
requirements.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Mine Warfare (MIW)
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Impulsive................. Airborne Mine Airborne mine E4; E11.......... 165.
Neutralization neutralization tests
System Test. evaluate the system's
ability to detect and
destroy mines. The
Airborne Mine
Neutralization System
Test uses up to four
unmanned underwater
vehicles equipped
with HF sonar, video
cameras, and
explosive
neutralizers.
Impulsive................. Airborne An MH-60S helicopter E11.............. 237.
Projectile-based uses a laser-based
Mine Clearance detection system to
System. search for mines and
to fix mine locations
for neutralization
with an airborne
projectile-based mine
clearance system. The
system neutralizes
mines by firing a
small or medium-
caliber inert,
supercavitating
projectile from a
hovering helicopter.
[[Page 73018]]
Impulsive................. Airborne Towed Tests of the Airborne E11.............. 72.
Minesweeping Towed Minesweeping
Test. System would be
conducted by a MH-60S
helicopter to
evaluate the
functionality of the
system and the MH-60S
at sea. The system is
towed from a forward
flying helicopter and
works by emitting an
electromagnetic field
and mechanically
generated underwater
sound to simulate the
presence of a ship.
The sound and
electromagnetic
signature cause
nearby mines to
explode.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Table 7--Naval Sea Systems Command Testing Activities Within the Study Area
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Number of events per
Stressor Testing event Description Source class year
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
New Ship Construction
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Non-Impulsive............. Surface Combatant Tests ship's sonar MF1,9,10; MF1K... 12.
Sea Trials-- systems pierside to
Pierside Sonar ensure proper
Testing. operation.
Non-Impulsive............. Surface Combatant Ships demonstrate ASW3; MF 1,9,10; 10.
Sea Trials--Anti- capability of MF1K.
Submarine countermeasure
Warfare Testing. systems and
underwater
surveillance and
communications
systems.
Non-Impulsive............. Submarine Sea Tests ship's sonar M3; HF1; MF3,10.. 6.
Trials--Pierside systems pierside to
Sonar Testing. ensure proper
operation.
Non-Impulsive............. Submarine Sea Submarines demonstrate M3; HF1; MF3,10.. 12.
Trials--Anti- capability of
Submarine underwater
Warfare Testing. surveillance and
communications
systems.
Non-Impulsive............. Anti-submarine Ships and their ASW1,3; MF4,5,12; 24.
Warfare Mission supporting platforms TORP1.
Package Testing. (e.g., helicopters,
unmanned aerial
vehicles) detect,
localize, and
prosecute submarines.
Non-Impulsive............. Mine Ships conduct mine HF4.............. 8.
Countermeasure countermeasure
Mission Package operations.
Testing.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Life Cycle Activities
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Non-Impulsive............. Surface Ship Pierside and at-sea ASW3; MF1, 9,10; 16.
Sonar Testing/ testing of ship MF1K.
Maintenance. systems occurs
periodically
following major
maintenance periods
and for routine
maintenance.
Non-Impulsive............. Submarine Sonar Pierside and at-sea HF1,3; M3; MF3... 28.
Testing/ testing of submarine
Maintenance. systems occurs
periodically
following major
maintenance periods
and for routine
maintenance.
Non-Impulsive............. Combat System All combat systems are MF1.............. 12.
Ship tested to ensure they
Qualification are functioning in a
Trial (CSSQT)-- technically
In-port acceptable manner and
Maintenance are operationally
Period. ready to support at-
sea CSSQT events.
Non-Impulsive............. Combat System Tests ships ability to HF4; MF1,2,4,5; 9.
Ship track and defend TORP1.
Qualification against undersea
Trial (CSSQT)-- targets.
Undersea Warfare
(USW).
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NAVSEA Range Activities
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Naval Surface Warfare Center, Panama City Division (NSWC PCD)
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Non-Impulsive............. Unmanned Testing and HF5,6,7; LF5; 1 per 5 year period.
Underwater demonstrations of FLS2; MF9; SAS2.
Vehicles multiple Unmanned
Demonstration. Underwater Vehicles
and associated
acoustic, optical,
and magnetic systems.
Non-Impulsive............. Mine Detection Air, surface, and HF1,4; MF1K; SAS2 81.
and subsurface vessels
Classification detect and classify
Testing. mines and mine-like
objects.
Non-Impulsive............. Stationary Source Stationary equipment LF4; MF8; SD1,2.. 11.
Testing. (including swimmer
defense systems) is
deployed to determine
functionality.
[[Page 73019]]
Non-Impulsive............. Special Warfare Testing of MF9.............. 110.
Testing. submersibles capable
of inserting and
extracting personnel
and/or payloads into
denied areas from
strategic distances.
Non-Impulsive............. Unmanned Unmanned Underwater FLS2; HF 5,6,7; 88.
Underwater Vehicles are deployed LF5; MF9; SAS2.
Vehicle Testing. to evaluate
hydrodynamic
parameters, to full
mission, multiple
vehicle functionality
assessments.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Naval Undersea Warfare Center Division, Newport (NUWCDIVNPT)
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Non-Impulsive............. Torpedo Testing.. Non-explosive TORP1; TORP2..... 30.
torpedoes are
launched to record
operational data. All
torpedoes are
recovered.
Non-Impulsive............. Towed Equipment Surface vessel or LF4; MF9; SAS1... 33.
Testing. Unmanned Underwater
Vehicle deploys
equipment to
determine
functionality of
towed systems.
Non-Impulsive............. Unmanned Unmanned Underwater HF6,7; LF5; MF10; 123.
Underwater Vehicles are deployed SAS2.
Vehicle Testing. to evaluate
hydrodynamic
parameters, to full
mission, multiple
vehicle functionality
assessments.
Non-Impulsive............. Semi-Stationary Semi-stationary ASW3,4; HF 5,6; 154.
Equipment equipment (e.g., LF 4,5; MF9,10.
Testing. hydrophones) is
deployed to determine
functionality.
Non-Impulsive............. Unmanned Testing and FLS2; HF5,6,7; 1 per 5 year period.
Underwater demonstrations of LF5; MF9; SAS2.
Vehicle multiple Unmanned
Demonstrations. Underwater Vehicles
and associated
acoustic, optical,
and magnetic systems.
Non-Impulsive............. Pierside Swimmer defense LF4; MF8; SD1.... 6.
Integrated testing ensures that
Swimmer Defense systems can
Testing. effectively detect,
characterize, verify,
and defend against
swimmer/diver threats
in harbor
environments.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
South Florida Ocean Measurement Facility (SFOMF)
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Non-Impulsive............. Signature Testing of ASW2; HF1,6; LF4; 18.
Analysis electromagnetic, M3; MF9.
Activities. acoustic, optical,
and radar signature
measurements of
surface ship and
submarine.
Non-Impulsive............. Mine Testing..... Air, surface, and sub- HF4.............. 33.
surface systems
detect, counter, and
neutralize ocean-
deployed mines.
Non-Impulsive............. Surface Testing.. Various surface FLS2; 33.
vessels, moored HF5,6,7;LF5;MF9;
equipment and SAS2.
materials are tested
to evaluate
performance in the
marine environment.
Non-Impulsive............. Unmanned Testing and FLS2; HF5,6,7; 1 per 5 year period.
Underwater demonstrations of LF5; MF9; SAS2.
Vehicles multiple Unmanned
Demonstrations. Underwater Vehicles
and associated
acoustic, optical,
and magnetic systems.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Additional Activities at Locations Outside of NAVSEA Ranges
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Anti-Surface Warfare (ASUW)/Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW) Testing
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Non-Impulsive............. Torpedo (Non- Air, surface, or ASW3,4; HF1; M3; 26.
explosive) submarine crews MF1,3,4,5;
Testing. employ inert TORP1,2.
torpedoes against
submarines or surface
vessels. All
torpedoes are
recovered.
Non-Impulsive............. Torpedo Air, surface, or TORP1; TORP2..... 2.
(Explosive) submarine crews
Testing. employ explosive
torpedoes against
artificial targets or
deactivated ships.
Non-Impulsive............. Countermeasure Towed sonar arrays and ASW3; HF5; TORP 3.
Testing. anti-torpedo torpedo 1,2.
systems are employed
to detect and
neutralize incoming
weapons.
Non-Impulsive............. Pierside Sonar Pierside testing to ASW3; HF1,3; M3; 23.
Testing. ensure systems are MF1,3.
fully functional in a
controlled pierside
environment prior to
at-sea test
activities.
Non-Impulsive............. At-sea Sonar At-sea testing to ASW4; HF1; M3; 15.
Testing. ensure systems are MF3.
fully functional in
an open ocean
environment.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
[[Page 73020]]
Mine Warfare (MIW) Testing
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Non-Impulsive............. Mine Detection Air, surface, and HF4.............. 66.
and subsurface vessels
Classification detect and classify
Testing. mines and mine-like
objects.
Non-Impulsive............. Mine Air, surface, and HF4; M3.......... 14.
Countermeasure/ subsurface vessels
Neutralization neutralize threat
Testing. mines that would
otherwise restrict
passage through an
area.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Shipboard Protection Systems and Swimmer Defense Testing
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Non-Impulsive............. Pierside Swimmer defense LF4; MF8; SD1.... 3.
Integrated testing ensures that
Swimmer Defense systems can
Testing. effectively detect,
characterize, verify,
and defend against
swimmer/diver threats
in harbor
environments.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Unmanned Vehicle Testing
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Non-Impulsive............. Unmanned Vehicle Vehicle development MF9; SAS2........ 111.
Development and involves the
Payload Testing. production and
upgrade of new
unmanned platforms on
which to attach
various payloads used
for different
purposes.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Other Testing Activities
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Non-Impulsive............. Special Warfare Special warfare HF1; M3; MF9..... 4.
Testing. includes testing of
submersibles capable
of inserting and
extracting personnel
and/or payloads into
denied areas from
strategic distances.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ship Construction and Maintenance
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
New Ship Construction
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Impulsive................. Aircraft Carrier Medium-caliber gun E1............... 410 per 5 year period.
Sea Trials--Gun systems are tested
Testing--Medium- using non-explosive
Caliber. and explosive rounds.
Impulsive................. Surface Warfare Ships defense against E1............... 5.
Mission Package-- surface targets with
Gun Testing-- medium-caliber guns.
Medium Caliber.
Impulsive................. Surface Warfare Ships defense against E3............... 5.
Mission Package-- surface targets with
Gun Testing-- large-caliber guns.
Large Caliber.
Impulsive................. Surface Warfare Ships defense against E6............... 15.
Mission Package-- surface targets with
Missile/Rocket medium range missiles
Testing. or rockets.
Impulsive................. Mine Ships conduct mine E4............... 8.
Countermeasure countermeasure
Mission Package operations.
Testing.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ship Shock Trials
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Impulsive................. Aircraft Carrier Explosives are E17.............. 1 per 5 year period.
Full Ship Shock detonated underwater
Trial. against surface ships.
Impulsive................. DDG 1000 Zumwalt Explosives are E16.............. 1 per 5 year period.
Class Destroyer detonated underwater
Full Ship Shock against surface ships.
Trial.
Impulsive................. Littoral Combat Explosives are E16.............. 2 per 5 year period.
Ship Full Ship detonated underwater
Shock Trial. against surface ships.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NAVSEA Range Activities
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Naval Surface Warfare Center, Panama City Division (NSWC PCD)
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Impulsive................. Mine Air, surface, and E4............... 15.
Countermeasure/ subsurface vessels
Neutralization neutralize threat
Testing. mines and mine-like
objects.
Impulsive................. Ordnance Testing. Airborne and surface E5; E14.......... 37.
crews defend against
surface targets with
small-, medium-, and
large-caliber guns,
as well as line
charge testing.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
[[Page 73021]]
Additional Activities at Locations Outside of NAVSEA Ranges
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Anti-Surface Warfare (ASUW)/Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW) Testing
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Impulsive................. Torpedo Air, surface, or E8; E11.......... 2.
(Explosive) submarine crews
Testing. employ explosive
torpedoes against
artificial targets or
deactivated ships.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Mine Warfare (MIW) Testing
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Impulsive................. Mine Air, surface, and E4; E8........... 14.
Countermeasure/ subsurface vessels
Neutralization neutralize threat
Testing. mines that would
otherwise restrict
passage through an
area.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Other Testing Activities
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Impulsive................. At-Sea Explosives Explosives are E5............... 4.
Testing. detonated at sea.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Vessels
Representative Navy vessel types, lengths, and speeds used in both
training and testing activities are shown in Table 8. While these
speeds are representative, some vessels operate outside of these speeds
due to unique training or safety requirements for a given event.
Examples include increased speeds needed for flight operations, full
speed runs to test engineering equipment, time critical positioning
needs, etc. Examples of decreased speeds include speeds less than 5
knots or completely stopped for launching small boats, certain tactical
maneuvers, target launch or retrievals, UUVs etc.
Table 8--Typical Navy Boat and Vessel Types With Length Greater Than 18 Meters Used Within the AFTT Study Area
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Example(s) (specifications in meters
Vessel type (>18 m) (m) for length, metric tons (mt) for Typical operating speed (knots)
mass, and knots for speed)
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Aircraft Carrier.................... Aircraft Carrier (CVN) length: 333 m 10 to 15.
beam: 41 m draft: 12 m displacement:
81,284 mt max. speed: 30+ knots.
Surface Combatants.................. Cruiser (CG) length: 173 m beam: 17 m 10 to 15.
draft: 10 m displacement: 9,754 mt
max. speed: 30+ knots.
Destroyer (DDG) length: 155 m beam: 18
m draft: 9 m displacement: 9,648 mt
max. speed: 30+ knots.
Frigate (FFG) length: 136 m beam: 14 m
draft: 7 m displacement: 4,166 mt
max. speed: 30+ knots.
Littoral Combat Ship (LCS) length: 115
m beam: 18 m draft: 4 m displacement:
3,000 mt max. speed: 40+ knots.
Amphibious Warfare Ships............ Amphibious Assault Ship (LHA, LHD) 10 to 15.
length: 253 m beam: 32 m draft: 8 m
displacement: 42,442 mt max. speed:
20+ knots.
Amphibious Transport Dock (LPD)
length: 208 m beam: 32 m draft: 7 m
displacement: 25,997 mt max. speed:
20+ knots.
Dock Landing Ship (LSD) length: 186 m
beam: 26 m draft: 6 m displacement:
16,976 mt max. speed: 20+ knots.
Mine Warship Ship................... Mine Countermeasures Ship (MCM) 5 to 8.
length: 68 m beam: 12 m draft: 4 m
displacement: 1,333 max. speed: 14
knots.
Submarines.......................... Attack Submarine (SSN) length: 115 m 8 to 13.
beam: 12 m draft: 9 m displacement:
12,353 mt max. speed: 20+ knots.
Guided Missile Submarine (SSGN)
length: 171 m beam: 13 m draft: 12 m
displacement: 19,000 mt max. speed:
20+ knots.
Combat Logistics Force Ships........ Fast Combat Support Ship (T-AOE) 8 to 12.
length: 230 m beam: 33 m draft: 12 m
displacement: 49,583 max. speed: 25
knots.
Dry Cargo/Ammunition Ship (T-AKE)
length: 210 m beam: 32 m draft: 9 m
displacement: 41,658 mt max speed: 20
knots.
Fleet Replenishment Oilers (T-AO)
length: 206 m beam: 30 m draft: 11
displacement: 42,674 mt max. speed:
20 knots.
Fleet Ocean Tugs (T-ATF) length: 69 m
beam: 13 m draft: 5 m displacement:
2,297 max. speed: 14 knots.
Support Craft/Other................. Landing Craft, Utility (LCU) length: 3 to 5.
41m beam: 9 m draft: 2 m
displacement: 381 mt max. speed: 11
knots.
Landing Craft, Mechanized (LCM)
length: 23 m beam: 6 m draft: 1 m
displacement: 107 mt max. speed: 11
knots.
Support Craft/Other Specialized High MK V Special Operations Craft length: Variable.
Speed. 25 m beam: 5 m displacement: 52 mt
max. speed: 50 knots.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
[[Page 73022]]
Duration and Location
The description of the location of authorized activities has not
changed from what was provided in the proposed rule (78 FR 7050,
January 31, 2013; page 7066) and AFTT FEIS/OEIS (http://www.aftteis.com). For a complete description, please see those
documents. Training and testing activities will be conducted in the
AFTT Study Area from November 2013 through November 2018. The Study
Area includes several existing study areas, range complexes, and
testing ranges: the Atlantic Fleet Active Sonar Training (AFAST) Study
Area; Northeast Range Complexes; Naval Undersea Warfare Center
Division, Newport (NUWCDIVNPT) Testing Range; Virginia Capes (VACAPES)
Range Complex; Cherry Point (CHPT) Range Complex; Jacksonville (JAX)
Range Complex; Naval Surface Warfare Center (NSWC) Carderock Division,
South Florida Ocean Measurement Facility (SFOMF) Testing Range; Key
West Range Complex; Gulf of Mexico (GOMEX) Range Complex; and Naval
Surface Warfare Center, Panama City Division (NSWC PCD) Testing Range.
In addition, the Study Area includes Narragansett Bay, the lower
Chesapeake Bay and St. Andrew Bay for training and testing activities.
Ports included for Civilian Port Defense training events include Earle,
New Jersey; Groton, Connecticut; Norfolk, Virginia; Morehead City,
North Carolina; Wilmington, North Carolina; Kings Bay, Georgia;
Mayport, Florida; Beaumont, Texas; and Corpus Christi, Texas. The Study
Area includes pierside locations where Navy surface ship and submarine
sonar maintenance and testing occur. The Study Area also includes
channels and transit routes to ports and facilities associated with
ports and shipyards.
Description of Marine Mammals in the Area of the Specified Activities
There are 48 marine mammal species with possible or known
occurrence in the AFTT Study Area, 45 of which are managed by NMFS, of
which 39 are cetacean species (8 mysticetes and 31 odontocetes) and six
are pinnipeds. To address a public comment on population structure, and
consistent with NMFS most recent Stock Assessment Report, a single
species may include multiple stocks recognized for management purposes
(e.g., bottlenose dolphin), while other species are grouped into a
single stock due to limited species-specific information (e.g., beaked
whales belonging to the genus Mesoplodon). However, when there is
sufficient information available, the Navy's take estimates and NMFS'
negligible impact determination are based on stock-specific numbers.
Eight marine mammal species are listed under the Endangered Species Act
(ESA; 16 U.S.C. 1531 et seq.): bowhead whale, North Atlantic right
whale, humpback whale, sei whale, fin whale, blue whale, sperm whale,
and ringed seal.
The Description of Marine Mammals in the Area of the Specified
Activities section has not changed from what was in the proposed rule
(78 FR 7050, January 31, 2013; pages 7066-7073). Table 9 of the
proposed rule provided a list of marine mammals with possible or
confirmed occurrence within the AFTT Study Area, including stock,
abundance, and status. Although not repeated in this final rule, we
have reviewed these data, determined them to be the best available
scientific information for the purposes of the rulemaking, and consider
this information part of the administrative record for this action.
The Navy's LOA application, proposed rule (78 FR 7050, January 31,
2013), and the AFTT FEIS/OEIS include a complete description of
information on the status, distribution, abundance, vocalizations,
density estimates, and general biology of marine mammal species.
Potential Effects of Specified Activities on Marine Mammals
For the purpose of MMPA authorizations, NMFS' effects assessments
serve five primary purposes: (1) To prescribe the permissible methods
of taking (i.e., Level B harassment (behavioral harassment), Level A
harassment (injury), or mortality, including an identification of the
number and types of take that could occur by harassment or mortality);
(2) to prescribe other means of effecting the least practicable adverse
impact on such species or stock and its habitat (i.e., mitigation); (3)
to determine whether the specified activity would have a negligible
impact on the affected species or stocks of marine mammals (based on
the likelihood that the activity would adversely affect the species or
stock through effects on annual rates of recruitment or survival); (4)
to determine whether the specified activity would have an unmitigable
adverse impact on the availability of the species or stock(s) for
subsistence uses; and (5) to prescribe requirements pertaining to
monitoring and reporting.
In the Potential Effect of Specified Activities on Marine Mammals
section of the proposed rule, we included a qualitative discussion of
the different ways that Navy training and testing activities may
potentially affect marine mammals without consideration of mitigation
and monitoring measures (78 FR 7050, January 31, 2013; pages 7077-
7092). Marine mammals may experience: direct physiological effects
(e.g., threshold shift and non-acoustic injury); acoustic masking;
impaired communication; stress responses; behavioral disturbance;
stranding; behavioral responses from vessel movement; and injury or
death from vessel collisions. NMFS made no changes to the information
contained in that section of the proposed rule, and it adopts that
discussion for purposes of this final rule.
NMFS is constantly evaluating new science and how to best
incorporate it into our decisions. This process involves careful
consideration of new data and how it is best interpreted within the
context of a given management framework. Since publication of the
proposed rule, studies have been published regarding behavioral
responses that are relevant to the proposed activities and energy
sources: Moore and Barlow, 2013, DeRuiter et al., 2013, and Goldbogen
et al., 2013, among others. These articles are specifically addressed
in the Comments and Responses section of this document. Each of these
articles is about the importance of context (e.g., behavioral state of
the animals, distance from the sound source, etc.) in evaluating
behavioral responses of marine mammals to acoustic sources. In
addition, New et al., (2013) was released after publication of the
proposed rule. This study uses energetic models to investigate the
survival and reproduction of beaked whales. The model suggests that
impacts to habitat quality may affect adult female beaked whales'
ability to reproduce; and therefore, a reduction in energy intake over
a long period of time may have the potential to impact reproduction.
However, the AFTT Study Area continues to support high densities of
beaked whales and there is no data to suggest a decline in this
population.
Also since the publication of the proposed rule, the Final report
of the Independent Scientific Review Panel investigating potential
contributing factors to a 2008 mass stranding of melon-headed whales
(Peponocephala electra) in Antsohihy, Madagascar was released. This
report suggests that the operation of high-powered 12kHz multi-beam
echosounders was a plausible and likely initial trigger that caused a
large group of melon-headed whales to leave their typical habitat and
then ultimately strand as a result of secondary factors such as
malnourishment and
[[Page 73023]]
dehydration. The report indicates that the risk of this particular
convergence of factors and ultimate outcome is likely very low, but
recommends that the potential be considered in environmental planning
(for example, through rapid response contingency plans). Because of the
association between tactical MFA sonar use and a small number of marine
mammal strandings, the Navy and NMFS have been considering and
addressing the potential for strandings in association with Navy
activities for years. In addition to a suite of mitigation intended to
more broadly minimize impacts to marine mammals, the Navy and NMFS have
a detailed Stranding Response Plan that outlines reporting,
communication, and response protocols intended both to minimize the
impacts of, and enhance the analysis of, any potential stranding in
areas where the Navy operates.
Mitigation
In order to issue regulations and LOAs under section 101(a)(5)(A)
of the MMPA, NMFS must set forth the ``permissible methods of taking
pursuant to such activity, and other means of effecting the least
practicable adverse impact on such species or stock and its habitat,
paying particular attention to rookeries, mating grounds, and areas of
similar significance.'' NMFS duty under this ``least practicable
adverse impact'' standard is to prescribe mitigation reasonably
designed to minimize, to the extent practicable, any adverse
population-level impacts, as well as habitat impacts. While population-
level impacts can be minimized by reducing impacts on individual marine
mammals, not all takes translate to population level impacts. NMFS'
objective under the ``least practicable adverse impact'' standard is to
design mitigation targeting those impacts on individual marine mammals
that are most likely to lead to adverse population-level effects.
The NDAA of 2004 amended the MMPA as it relates to military
readiness activities and the ITA process such that ``least practicable
adverse impact'' shall include consideration of personnel safety,
practicality of implementation, and impact on the effectiveness of the
``military readiness activity.'' The training and testing activities
described in the Navy's LOA application are considered military
readiness activities.
NMFS reviewed the proposed activities and the suite of proposed
mitigation measures as described in the Navy's LOA application to
determine if they would result in the least practicable adverse effect
on marine mammal species and stocks, which includes a careful balancing
of the degree to which the mitigation measures are expected to reduce
the likelihood and/or magnitude of adverse impacts to marine mammal
species or stocks and their habitat with the likely effect of the
measures on personnel safety, practicality of implementation, and
impact on the effectiveness of the military readiness activity.
Included below are the mitigation measures the Navy proposed in their
LOA application.
NMFS described the Navy's proposed mitigation measures in detail in
the proposed rule (78 FR 7050, January 31, 2013; pages 7092-7098).
These required mitigation measures, summarized below, have not changed
with the exception of the extension of the boundary in the eastern Gulf
of Mexico planning awareness area to further protect a population of
Bryde's whale that has been exclusively observed in that area year-
round. NMFS worked with the Navy in the development of the Navy's
initial proposed measures, which have been informed through years of
experience and monitoring. As described in the mitigation conclusions
below and in responses to comments, and the AFTT FEIS/OEIS, additional
measures were considered and analyzed, but ultimately not chosen for
implementation. Below is a summary of the mitigation measures initially
proposed by the Navy. For additional details regarding the Navy's
mitigation measures, see Chapter 5 in the AFTT FEIS/OEIS.
At least one lookout during applicable training and
testing activities requiring mitigation;
Mitigation zones during impulsive and non-impulsive
sources to avoid or reduce the potential for onset of the lowest level
of injury, PTS, out to the predicted maximum range (Tables 11 and 12);
Mitigation zones of 457 meters (1,500 ft) around whales
and 183 meters (600 ft) around all other marine mammals (except bow
riding dolphins) during vessel movement;
A mitigation zone of 229 meters (750 ft) around marine
mammals during use of towed in-water devices from a manned platform;
Mitigation zones during non-explosive gunnery exercises,
missile exercises, and bombing exercises to avoid or reduce the
potential for a direct strike from munitions;
Mitigation measures within pre-defined mitigation areas.
Table 11--Predicted Ranges to TTS, PTS, and Recommended Mitigation Zones
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Representative source Predicted average Predicted average Predicted maximum Recommended
Activity category (bin) \1\ range to TTS range to PTS range to PTS mitigation zone
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Non-Impulsive Sound
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Low-Frequency and Hull-Mounted Mid- SQS-53 ASW hull- 3,821 yd. (3.5 km) for 100 yd. (91 m) for Not Applicable....... 6 dB power down at
Frequency Active Sonar. mounted sonar (MF1). one ping. one ping. 1,000 yd. (914 m); 4
dB power down at 500
yd. (457 m); and
shutdown at 200 yd.
(183 m).
Low-frequency sonar 3,821 yd. (3.5 km) for 100 yd. (91 m) for Not Applicable....... 200 yd. (183 m) \2\.
\2\ (LF4). one ping. one ping.
High-Frequency and Non-Hull Mounted AQS-22 ASW dipping 230 yd. (210 m) for 20 yd. (18 m) for one Not Applicable....... 200 yd. (183 m).
Mid-Frequency Active Sonar. sonar (MF4). one ping. ping.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Explosive and Impulsive Sound
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Improved Extended Echo Ranging Explosive sonobuoy 434 yd. (397 m)....... 156 yd. (143 m)...... 563 yd. (515 m)...... 600 yd. (549 m).
Sonobuoys. (E4).
[[Page 73024]]
Explosive Sonobuoys Using 0.6-2.5 Explosive sonobuoy 290 yd. (265 m)....... 113 yd. (103 m)...... 309 yd. (283 m)...... 350 yd. (320 m).
lb. NEW. (E3).
Anti-Swimmer Grenades.............. Up to 0.5 lb. NEW (E2) 190 yd. (174 m)....... 83 yd. (76 m)........ 182 yd. (167 m)...... 200 yd. (183 m).
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Mine Countermeasure and NEW dependent (see Table 12)
Neutralization Activities Using
Positive Control Firing Devices.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Mine Neutralization Diver-Placed Up to 20 lb. NEW (E6). 647 yd. (592 m)....... 232 yd. (212 m)...... 469 yd. (429 m)...... 1,000 yd. (914 m).
Mines Using Time-Delay Firing
Devices.
Gunnery Exercises--Small- and 40 mm projectile (E2). 190 yd. (174 m)....... 83 yd. (76 m)........ 182 yd. (167 m)...... 200 yd. (183 m).
Medium-Caliber Using a Surface
Target.
Gunnery Exercises--Large-Caliber 5 in. projectiles (E5 453 yd. (414 m)....... 186 yd. (170 m)...... 526 yd. (481 m)...... 600 yd. (549 m).
Using a Surface Target. at the surface \3\).
Missile Exercises (Including Maverick missile (E9). 949 yd. (868 m)....... 398 yd. (364 m)...... 699 yd. (639 m)...... 900 yd. (823 m).
Rockets) up to 250 lb. NEW Using a
Surface Target.
Missile Exercises Using 251-500 lb. Harpoon missile (E10). 1,832 yd. (1.7 km).... 731 yd. (668 m)...... 1,883 yd. (1.7 km)... 2,000 yd. (1.8 km).
NEW Using a Surface Target.
Bombing Exercises.................. MK-84 2,000 lb. bomb 2,513 yd. (2.3 km).... 991 yd. (906 m)...... 2,474 yd. (2.3 km)... 2,500 yd. (2.3 km)
(E12). \2\.
Torpedo (Explosive) Testing........ MK-48 torpedo (E11)... 1,632 yd. (1.5 km).... 697 yd. (637 m)...... 2,021 yd. (1.8 km)... 2,100 yd. (1.9 km).
Sinking Exercises.................. Various sources up to 2,513 yd. (2.3 km).... 991 yd. (906 m)...... 2,474 yd. (2.3 km)... 2.5 nm \2\.
the MK-84 2,000 lb.
bomb (E12).
At-Sea Explosive Testing........... Various sources of 10 525 yd. (480 m)....... 204 yd. (187 m)...... 649 yd. (593 m)...... 1,600 yd. (1.4 km)
lb. NEW and less (E5 \2\.
at various depths
\3\).
Ordnance Testing--Line Charge Numerous 5-lb. charges 434 yd. (397 m)....... 156 yd. (143 m)...... 563 yd. (515 m)...... 900 yd. (823 m) \2\.
Testing. (E4).
Ship Shock Trials in JAX Range 10,000-lb. charge 5.8 nm................ 2.7 nm............... 4.8 nm............... 3.5 nm \4\.
Complex. (HBX).
40,000-lb. charge 9.2 nm................ 3.6 nm............... 6.4 nm............... 3.5 nm \4\.
(HBX).
Ship Shock Trials in VACAPES Range 10,000-lb. charge 9 nm.................. 2 nm................. 4.7 nm............... 3.5 nm \4\.
Complex. (HBX).
40,000-lb. charge 10.3 nm............... 3.7 nm............... 7.6 nm............... 3.5 nm \4\.
(HBX).
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
ASW: anti-submarine warfare; HBX: high blast explosive; JAX: Jacksonville; km: kilometer; lb.: pound; m: meter;
NEW: net explosive weight; nm: nautical mile; PTS: permanent threshold shift; TTS: temporary threshold shift;
VACAPES: Virginia Capes; yd.: yard.
\1\ This table does not provide an inclusive list of source bins; bins presented here represent the source bin with the largest range to effects within
the given activity category.
\2\ Recommended mitigation zones are larger than the modeled injury zones to account for multiple types of sources or charges being used.
\3\ The representative source bin E5 has different range to effects depending on the depth of activity occurrence (at the surface or at various depths).
\4\ See Section 5.3.2.1.2.15 (Ship Shock Trials) in the FEIS/EIS regarding ship shock trial mitigation zones.
[[Page 73025]]
Table 12--Predicted Ranges to Effects and Mitigation Zone Radius for Mine Countermeasure and Neutralization Activities Using Positive Control Firing Devices
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
General mine countermeasure and neutralization activities using positive control firing Mine countermeasure and neutralization activities using diver-placed charges under positive
devices\1\ control \2\
Charge size net explosive weight -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(Bins) Predicted average range Predicted average range Predicted maximum range Recommended mitigation Predicted average range Predicted average range Predicted maximum range Recommended mitigation
to TTS to PTS to PTS zone to TTS to PTS to PTS zone
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
2.6-5 lb. (E4).................. 434 yd. (397 m)........ 197 yd. (180 m)........ 563 yd. (515 m)........ 600 yd. (549 m)........ 545 yd. (498 m)........ 169 yd. (155 m)........ 301 yd. (275 m)........ 350 yd. (320 m).
6-10 lb. (E5)................... 525 yd. (480 m)........ 204 yd. (187 m)........ 649 yd. (593 m)........ 800 yd. (732 m)........ 587 yd. (537 m)........ 203 yd. (185 m)........ 464 yd. (424 m)........ 500 yd. (457 m).
11-20 lb. (E6).................. 766 yd. (700 m)........ 288 yd. (263 m)........ 648 yd. (593 m)........ 800 yd. (732 m)........ 647 yd. (592 m)........ 232 yd. (212 m)........ 469 yd. (429 m)........ 500 yd. (457 m).
21-60 lb. (E7) \3\.............. 1,670 yd. (1.5 km)..... 581 yd. (531 m)........ 964 yd. (882 m)........ 1,200 yd. (1.1 km)..... 1,532 yd. (1.4 km)..... 473 yd. (432 m)........ 789 yd. (721 m)........ 800 yd. (732 m).
61-100 lb. (E8) \4\............. 878 yd. (802 m)........ 383 yd. (351 m)........ 996 yd. (911 m)........ 1,600 yd. (1.4 km)..... 969 yd. (886 m)........ 438 yd. (400 m)........ 850 yd. (777 m)........ 850 yd. (777 m).
251-500 lb. (E10)............... 1,832 yd. (1.7 km)..... 731 yd. (668 m)........ 1,883 yd. (1.7 km)..... 2,000 yd. (1.8 km)..... ....................... ....................... ....................... Not Applicable.
501-650 lb. (E11)............... 1,632 yd. (1.5 km)..... 697 yd. (637 m)........ 2,021 yd. (1.8 km)..... 2,100 yd. (1.9 km)..... ....................... ....................... ....................... Not Applicable.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
km: kilometer; lb.: pound; m: meter; PTS: permanent threshold shift; TTS: temporary threshold shift; yd.: yard.
\1\ These mitigation zones are applicable to all mine countermeasure and neutralization activities conducted in all locations specified in Tables 2.8-1 through 2.8-3 in the FEIS/OEIS.
\2\ These mitigation zones are only applicable to mine countermeasure and neutralization activities involving the use of diver-placed charges. These activities are conducted in shallow water, and the mitigation zones are based only
on the functional hearing groups with species that occur in these areas (mid-frequency cetaceans and sea turtles).
\3\ The E7 bin was only modeled in shallow-water locations, so there is no difference for the diver-placed charges category.
\4\ The E8 bin was only modeled for surface explosions, so some of the ranges are shorter than for sources modeled in the E7 bin, which occur at depth.
[[Page 73026]]
Time-Delay Firing Devices
When mine neutralization activities using diver placed charges (up
to a 20 lb. NEW) are conducted with a time-delay firing device, the
detonation is fused with a specified time-delay by the personnel
conducting the activity and is not authorized until the area is clear
at the time the fuse is initiated. During these activities, the
detonation cannot be terminated once the fuse is initiated due to human
safety concerns. During activities using up to a 20 lb. NEW (bin E6)
detonation, the Navy will have four lookouts and two small rigid hull
inflatable boats (two lookouts positioned in each of the two boats)
monitoring a 1,000-yd (914-m) mitigation zone. In addition, when
aircraft are used, the pilot or member of the aircrew will serve as an
additional lookout. The Navy will monitor the mitigation zone for 30
minutes before, during, and 30 minutes after the activity to ensure
that the area is clear of marine mammals and time-delay firing device
events will only be conducted during daylight hours.
Vessel Strike
(1) Naval vessels will maneuver to keep at least 500 yds (457 m)
away from any observed whale in the vessel's path and avoid approaching
whales head-on. These requirements do not apply if a vessel's safety is
threatened, such as when change of course will create an imminent and
serious threat to a person, vessel, or aircraft, and to the extent
vessels are restricted in their ability to maneuver. Restricted
maneuverability includes, but is not limited to, situations when
vessels are engaged in dredging, submerged activities, launching and
recovering aircraft or landing craft, minesweeping activities,
replenishment while underway and towing activities that severely
restrict a vessel's ability to deviate course. Vessels will take
reasonable steps to alert other vessels in the vicinity of the whale.
Given rapid swimming speeds and maneuverability of many dolphin
species, naval vessels would maintain normal course and speed on
sighting dolphins unless some condition indicated a need for the vessel
to maneuver.
(2) If a large whale surfaces within 500 yds (457 m) of a Navy
vessel (or if a vessel is within this distance of a large whale for any
other reason), the vessel should exercise caution, increase vigilance,
and consider slower speed if operationally supportable and does not
interfere with safety of navigation until the vessel has moved beyond a
500 yds (457 m) radius of the observed whale, or any subsequently
observed whales (whales often travel in pairs within several body
lengths of one another (fin/blue) and humpbacks in feeding
aggregations).
(3) North Atlantic right whale Dynamic Management Areas (DMAs)--
NMFS has established a program whereby temporary zones, called Dynamic
Management Areas (DMAs), can be established quickly in locations
throughout the species' range when right whales are observed outside of
the geographic extend or effected period of Seasonal Management Areas
(SMAs). DMAs are established when reliable sightings are obtained
(derived primarily from systematic aircraft surveys for marine mammals
using trained observers) of three of more right whales in U.S. waters
within a 75 nm\2\ (138.9 km\2\) area, such that right whale density is
>=0.04 right whales/nm\2\. Additional (15 nm2) areas are then
delineated around the sighting location to account for potential whale
movement and are incorporated into a single polygon that encompasses
both the sighting location and its surrounding zone. Each DMA is
established immediately (i.e., within 24 hours) upon confirmation of
right whale sighting locations and automatically set to expire 15 days
after the initial date. If whales remain in the area, the DMA may be
extended for an additional 15 days. Maritime communities, including the
Navy, are notified of the existence of a DMA via: NOAA Weather Radio;
U.S. Coast Guard notice to mariners; an email distribution list;
postings on the NMFS Office of Protected Resources ship strike Web site
and the Northeast Fisheries Science Center's web-based interactive
right whale sighting system; and an automatic return message via email
is sent to mariners who seek information on whale-sighting locations.
Mariners are requested, but not required, to either navigate around
DMAs or travel through them at 10 knots or less. If a DMA is created
the Navy will consider whether to either navigate around the area or
travel through at slow safe speed consistent with mission training and
safety of navigation. The Navy will receive notification regarding the
creation of a DMA as well as information pertaining to its location,
size, and duration through the U.S. Coast Guard's Notice to Mariners.
Cetacean and Sound Mapping
NMFS Office of Protected Resources routinely considers available
information about marine mammal habitat use to inform discussions with
applicants regarding potential spatio-temporal limitations on their
activities that might help effect the least practicable adverse impact
on species or stocks and their habitat (e.g., Humpback Whale Cautionary
Area in Hawaii). Through the Cetacean and Sound Mapping effort
(www.cetsound.noaa.gov), NOAA's Cetacean Density and Distribution
Mapping Working Group (CetMap) is currently involved in a process to
compile available literature and solicit expert review to identify
areas and times where species are known to concentrate for specific
behaviors (e.g., feeding, breeding/calving, or migration) or be range-
limited (e.g., small resident populations). These areas, called
Biologically Important Areas (BIAs), are useful tools for planning and
impact assessments and are being provided to the public via the
CetSound Web site, along with a summary of the supporting information.
While these BIAs are useful tools for analysts, any decisions regarding
protective measures based on these areas must go through the normal
MMPA evaluation process (or any other statutory process that the BIAs
are used to inform)--the designation of a BIA does not pre-suppose any
specific management decision associated with those areas. Additionally,
the BIA process is iterative and the areas will be updated as new
information becomes available. Currently, NMFS has some BIAs in Hawaii
(which were considered in the Comments and Responses section of the
final rule for the Hawaii Southern California Training and Testing
(HSTT) Study Area). The BIAs in other regions, such as the Atlantic and
West Coast of the continental U.S. are preliminary and are being
prepared for submission to a peer-reviewed journal for review. NMFS and
the Navy have discussed the draft BIAs, what Navy activities take place
in these areas (in the context of what their effects on marine mammals
might be or whether additional mitigation is necessary), and what
measures could be implemented to reduce impacts in these areas (in the
context of their potential to reduce marine mammal impacts and their
practicability). As a result of the Navy's Biological Assessment and
Operational Assessment, the Navy is extending the boundary of the
eastern Gulf of Mexico planning awareness area (an area in which major
training exercises are limited) to further protect a resident
population of Bryde's whales that has been observed exclusively in that
area year-round. As we learn more about marine mammal density,
distribution, and habitat use (and the BIAs are updated), NMFS and the
Navy will continue to reevaluate appropriate time-area measures through
the
[[Page 73027]]
Adaptive Management process outlined in these regulations.
Stranding Response Plan
NMFS and the Navy developed Stranding Response Plans for the Study
Areas and Range Complexes that make up the AFTT Study Area in 2009 as
part of previous incidental take authorizations (ITAs). The Stranding
Response Plans specifically intended to outline applicable requirements
in the event that a marine mammal stranding is reported in the east
coast Range Complexes and AFTT Study Area during a major training
exercise. NMFS considers all plausible causes within the course of a
stranding investigation and these plans in no way presume that any
strandings in a Navy range complex are related to, or caused by, Navy
training and testing activities, absent a determination made during
investigation. The plans are designed to address mitigation,
monitoring, and compliance. The Navy is currently working with NMFS to
refine these plans for the new AFTT Study Area and the revised plans
will be made available here: http://www.nmfs.noaa.gov/pr/permits/incidental.htm#applications. Modifications to the Stranding Response
Plan may also be made through the adaptive management process.
Mitigation Conclusions
NMFS has carefully evaluated the Navy's proposed suite of
mitigation measures and considered a broad range of other measures in
the context of ensuring that NMFS prescribes the means of effecting the
least practicable adverse impact on the affected marine mammal species
and stocks and their habitat. Our evaluation of potential measures
included consideration of the following factors in relation to one
another: the manner in which, and the degree to which, the successful
implementation of the required mitigation measures is expected to
reduce the likelihood and/or magnitude of adverse impacts to marine
mammal species or stocks and their habitat; the proven or likely
efficacy of the measures; and the practicability of the suite of
measures for implementation, including consideration of personnel
safety, practicality of implementation, and impact on the effectiveness
of the military readiness activity.
In some cases, additional mitigation measures are required beyond
those that the applicant proposes. NMFS may consider the practicability
of implementing a particular mitigation measure if the best available
science indicates that the measure (either alone or in combination with
other mitigation measures) has a reasonable likelihood of accomplishing
or contributing to the accomplishment of one or more of the goals
listed below, which, in turn, would be expected to lessen the
likelihood and/or magnitude of adverse impacts on marine mammal species
or stocks and their habitat:
a. Avoidance or minimization of injury or death of marine mammals
wherever possible (goals b, c, and d may contribute to this goal).
b. A reduction in the numbers of marine mammals (total number or
number at biologically important time or location) exposed to received
levels of active sonar, underwater detonations, or other activities
expected to result in the take of marine mammals (this goal may
contribute to a, above, or to reducing harassment takes only).
c. A reduction in the number of times (total number or number at
biologically important time or location) individuals would be exposed
to received levels of active sonar, underwater detonations, or other
activities expected to result in the take of marine mammals (this goal
may contribute to a, above, or to reducing harassment takes only).
d. A reduction in the intensity of exposures (either total number
or number at biologically important time or location) to received
levels of active sonar, underwater detonations, or other activities
expected to result in the take of marine mammals (this goal may
contribute to a, above, or to reducing the severity of harassment takes
only).
e. Avoidance or minimization of adverse effects to marine mammal
habitat, paying special attention to the food base, activities that
block or limit passage to or from biologically important areas,
permanent destruction of habitat, or temporary destruction/disturbance
of habitat during a biologically important time.
f. For monitoring directly related to mitigation--an increase in
the probability of detecting marine mammals, thus allowing for more
effective implementation of the mitigation (shut-down zone, etc.).
Based on our evaluation of the Navy's proposed measures, as well as
other measures considered by NMFS or recommended by the public, NMFS
has determined that the Navy's proposed mitigation measures (especially
when the adaptive management component is taken into consideration (see
Adaptive Management, below)), along with the additions detailed in the
Mitigation section above, are adequate means of effecting the least
practicable adverse impacts on marine mammals species or stocks and
their habitat, paying particular attention to rookeries, mating
grounds, and areas of similar significance, while also considering
personnel safety, practicality of implementation, and impact on the
effectiveness of the military readiness activity.
Monitoring
Section 101(a)(5)(A) of the MMPA states that in order to issue an
ITA for an activity, NMFS must set forth ``requirements pertaining to
the monitoring and reporting of such taking.'' The MMPA implementing
regulations at 50 CFR 216.104(a)(13) indicate that requests for LOAs
must include the suggested means of accomplishing the necessary
monitoring and reporting that will result in increased knowledge of the
species and of the level of taking or impacts on populations of marine
mammals that are expected to be present.
Monitoring measures prescribed by NMFS should accomplish one or
more of the following general goals:
An increase in the probability of detecting marine
mammals, both within the mitigation zone (thus allowing for more
effective implementation of the mitigation) and in general to generate
more data to contribute to the analyses mentioned below.
An increase in our understanding of how many marine
mammals are likely to be exposed to levels of active sonar (or in-water
explosives or other stimuli) that we associate with specific adverse
effects, such as behavioral harassment, TTS, or PTS.
An increase in our understanding of how marine mammals
respond to active sonar (at specific received levels), in-water
explosives, or other stimuli expected to result in take and how
anticipated adverse effects on individuals (in different ways and to
varying degrees) may impact the population, species, or stock
(specifically through effects on annual rates of recruitment or
survival) through any of the following methods:
[cir] Behavioral observations in the presence of active sonar
compared to observations in the absence of sonar (need to be able to
accurately predict received level and report bathymetric conditions,
distance from source, and other pertinent information).
[cir] Physiological measurements in the presence of active sonar
compared to observations in the absence of sonar (need to be able to
accurately predict received level and report bathymetric conditions,
distance from source, and other pertinent information).
[cir] Pre-planned and thorough investigation of stranding events
that occur coincident to naval activities.
[[Page 73028]]
[cir] Distribution and/or abundance comparisons in times or areas
with concentrated active sonar versus times or areas without sonar.
An increased knowledge of the affected species.
An increase in our understanding of the effectiveness of
certain mitigation and monitoring measures.
NMFS described an overview of Navy monitoring and research,
highlighted recent findings, and the Navy's proposed new approach to
monitoring in the proposed rule (78 FR 7050, January 31, 2013; pages
7098-7100). Below is a summary of the Navy's Integrated Comprehensive
Monitoring Program (ICMP) and the Navy's Strategic Planning Process for
Marine Species Monitoring.
Integrated Comprehensive Monitoring Program (ICMP)--The Navy's ICMP
is intended to coordinate monitoring efforts across all regions and to
allocate the most appropriate level and type of effort for each range
complex based on a set of standardized objectives, and in
acknowledgement of regional expertise and resource availability. The
ICMP is designed to be flexible, scalable, and adaptable through the
adaptive management and strategic planning processes to periodically
assess progress and reevaluate objectives. Although the ICMP does not
specify actual monitoring field work or projects, it does establish
top-level goals that have been developed in coordination with NMFS. As
the ICMP is implemented, detailed and specific studies will be
developed which support the Navy's top-level monitoring goals. In
essence, the ICMP directs that monitoring activities relating to the
effects of Navy training and testing activities on marine species
should be designed to accomplish one or more of the top-level goals.
Monitoring will address the ICMP top-level goals through a collection
of specific regional and ocean basin studies based on scientific
objectives. Quantitative metrics of monitoring effort (e.g., 20 days of
aerial surveys) will not be a specific requirement. The adaptive
management process and reporting requirements will serve as the basis
for evaluating performance and compliance, primarily considering the
quality of the work and results produced, as well as peer review and
publications, and public dissemination of information, reports and
data. Details of the current ICMP are available here: http://www.nmfs.noaa.gov/pr/permits/incidental.htm#applications; or at the
Navy's marine species monitoring Web site: http://www.navymarinespeciesmonitoring.us/.
Strategic Planning Process for Marine Species Monitoring--The Navy
also developed the Strategic Planning Process for Marine Species
Monitoring, which establishes the guidelines and processes necessary to
develop, evaluate, and fund individual projects based on objective
scientific study questions. The process uses an underlying framework
designed around top-level goals, a conceptual framework incorporating a
progression of knowledge, and in consultation with the Scientific
Advisory Group and other regional experts. The Strategic Planning
Process for Marine Species Monitoring will be used to set intermediate
scientific objectives, identify potential species of interest at a
regional scale, and evaluate and select specific monitoring projects to
fund or continue supporting for a given fiscal year. This process will
also address relative investments to different range complexes based on
goals across all range complexes, and monitoring would leverage
multiple techniques for data acquisition and analysis whenever
possible. The Strategic Planning Process for Marine Species Monitoring
is also available on our Web site: http://www.nmfs.noaa.gov/pr/permits/incidental.htm#applications; or at the Navy's marine species monitoring
Web site: http://www.navymarinespeciesmonitoring.us/.
Past and Current Monitoring in the AFTT Study Area
NMFS has received multiple years' worth of annual exercise and
monitoring reports addressing active sonar use and explosive
detonations within the AFTT Study Area. The data and information
contained in these reports have been considered in developing
mitigation and monitoring measures for the training and testing
activities within the AFTT Study Area. The Navy's annual exercise and
monitoring reports may be viewed at: http://www.nmfs.noaa.gov/pr/permits/incidental.htm#applications; or at the Navy's marine species
monitoring Web site: http://www.navymarinespeciesmonitoring.us/. NMFS'
summary of the Navy's monitoring reports was included in the proposed
rule (78 FR 7050, January 31, 2013; pages 7098-7102).
Monitoring for the AFTT Study Area
2014 will be a transitional year for Navy monitoring so that
ongoing data collection from the Navy's current east coast rulemakings
can be completed. Therefore, monitoring in 2014 will be a combination
of previously funded FY-13 ``carry-over'' projects and new FY-14
project starts. A more detailed description of the Navy's planned
projects starting in 2014 (and some continuing from previous years) is
available on NMFS' Web site (www.nmfs.noaa.gov/pr/permits/incidental.htm#applications). The Navy will update the status of its
monitoring program and funded projects through their Navy Marine
Species Monitoring Web site: http://www.navymarinespeciesmonitoring.us/. NMFS will provide one public
comment period on the Navy's monitoring program during the 5-year
regulations. At this time, the public will have an opportunity (likely
in the second year) to comment specifically on the Navy's AFTT
monitoring projects and data collection to date, as well as planned
projects for the remainder of the regulations.
Through the adaptive management process (including annual
meetings), the Navy will coordinate with NMFS and the Marine Mammal
Commission (the Commission) to review and provide input for projects
that will meet the scientific objectives that are used to guide
development of individual monitoring projects. The adaptive management
process will continue to serve as the primary venue for both NMFS and
the Commission to provide input on the Navy's monitoring program,
including ongoing work, future priorities, and potential new projects.
The Navy will submit annual monitoring reports to NMFS as part of the
AFTT rulemaking and LOA requirements. Each annual report will contain a
section describing the adaptive management process and summarize the
Navy's anticipated monitoring projects for the next reporting year.
Following annual report submission to NMFS, the final rule language
mandates a 3-month NMFS review prior to each report being finalized.
This will provide ample time for NMFS and the Commission to comment on
the next year's planned projects as well as ongoing regional projects
or proposed new projects. Comments will be received by the Navy prior
to the annual adaptive management meeting to facilitate a meaningful
and productive discussion. NMFS and the Commission will also have the
opportunity for involvement at monitoring program science review
meetings and/or regional Scientific Advisory Group meetings. This will
help keep NMFS and the Commission informed and able to understand the
scientific considerations and limitations involved with planning and
executing various monitoring projects.
[[Page 73029]]
Adaptive Management
Although substantial improvements have been made in our
understanding of the effects of Navy training and testing activities
(e.g., sonar, underwater detonations) on marine mammals, the science in
this field is evolving fairly quickly. These circumstances make the
inclusion of an adaptive management component both valuable and
necessary within the context of 5-year regulations.
The reporting requirements associated with this rule are designed
to provide NMFS with monitoring data from the previous year to allow us
to consider whether any changes are appropriate. NMFS, the Navy, and
the Commission will meet to discuss the monitoring reports, Navy R&D
developments, current science, and whether mitigation or monitoring
modifications are appropriate. The use of adaptive management allows
NMFS to consider new information from different sources to determine
(with input from the Navy regarding practicability) on an annual or
biennial basis if mitigation or monitoring measures should be modified
(including additions or deletions). Mitigation measures could be
modified if new data suggests that such modifications would have a
reasonable likelihood of reducing adverse effects to marine mammal
species and their habitat and if the measures are practicable.
The following are some of the possible sources of applicable data
to be considered through the adaptive management process: (1) Results
from monitoring, exercise and testing reports, as required by MMPA
authorizations; (2) compiled results of Navy funded R&D studies; (3)
results from specific stranding investigations; (4) results from
general marine mammal and sound research; and (5) any information which
reveals that marine mammals may have been taken in a manner, extent, or
number not authorized by these regulations or subsequent LOAs.
Reporting
In order to issue an ITA for an activity, section 101(a)(5)(A) of
the MMPA states that NMFS must set forth ``requirements pertaining to
the monitoring and reporting of such taking.'' Effective reporting is
critical both to compliance as well as ensuring that the most value is
obtained from the required monitoring. The proposed rule contains the
proposed reporting requirements for the Navy (78 FR 7050, January 31,
2013; page 7102). Since then, the Navy has expanded upon those reports
to include specific language for testing activities, which is detailed
in the regulatory text at the end of this document. Reports from
individual monitoring events, results of analyses, publications, and
periodic progress reports for specific monitoring projects will be
posted to the Navy's Marine Species Monitoring web portal: http://www.navymarinespeciesmonitoring.us and NMFS' Web site: http://www.nmfs.noaa.gov/pr/permits/incidental.htm#applications. There are
several different reporting requirements that are further detailed in
the regulatory text at the end of this document and summarized below.
General Notification of Injured or Dead Marine Mammals
Navy personnel will ensure that NMFS (the appropriate Regional
Stranding Coordinator) is notified immediately (or as soon as clearance
procedures allow) if an injured or dead marine mammal is found during
or shortly after, and in the vicinity of, any Navy training or testing
exercise utilizing sonar or underwater explosive detonations. The Navy
will provide NMFS with species identification or a description of the
animal(s), the condition of the animal(s) (including carcass condition
if the animal is dead), location, time of first discovery, observed
behaviors (if alive), and photographs or video (if available). The AFTT
Stranding Response Plan contains further reporting requirements for
specific circumstances (http://www.nmfs.noaa.gov/pr/permits/incidental.htm#applications).
Vessel Strike
Since the proposed rule, NMFS has added the following language to
address monitoring and reporting measures specific to vessel strike.
Most of this language comes directly from the Stranding Response Plan.
This section has also been included in the regulatory text at the end
of this document. In the event that a Navy vessel strikes a whale, the
Navy shall do the following: Report to NMFS (pursuant to the
established Communication Protocol) the:
Species identification (if known);
Location (latitude/longitude) of the animal (or location
of the strike if the animal has disappeared);
Whether the animal is alive or dead (or unknown); and
The time of the strike.
As soon as feasible, the Navy shall report to or provide to NMFS,
the:
Size, length, and description (critical if species is not
known) of animal;
An estimate of the injury status (e.g., dead, injured but
alive, injured and moving, blood or tissue observed in the water,
status unknown, disappeared, etc.);
Description of the behavior of the whale during event,
immediately after the strike, and following the strike (until the
report is made or the animal is no longer sighted);
Vessel class/type and operational status;
Vessel length;
Vessel speed and heading; and
To the best extent possible, obtain a photo or video of
the struck animal, if the animal is still in view.
Within 2 weeks of the strike, provide NMFS:
A detailed description of the specific actions of the
vessel in the 30-minute timeframe immediately preceding the strike,
during the event, and immediately after the strike (e.g., the speed and
changes in speed, the direction and changes in direction, other
maneuvers, sonar use, etc., if not classified); and
A narrative description of marine mammal sightings during
the event and immediately after, and any information as to sightings
prior to the strike, if available.
Use established Navy shipboard procedures to make a camera available to
attempt to capture photographs following a ship strike.
NMFS and the Navy will coordinate to determine the services the
Navy may provide to assist NMFS with the investigation of the strike.
The response and support activities to be provided by the Navy are
dependent on resource availability, must be consistent with military
security, and must be logistically feasible without compromising Navy
personnel safety. Assistance requested and provided may vary based on
distance of strike from shore, the nature of the vessel that hit the
whale, available nearby Navy resources, or other factors.
Annual Monitoring and Exercise and Testing Reports
As noted above, reports from individual monitoring events, results
of analyses, publications, and periodic progress reports for specific
monitoring projects will be posted to the Navy's Marine Species
Monitoring web portal and NMFS' Web site as they become available.
Progress and results from all monitoring activity conducted within the
AFTT Study Area, as well as required Major Training Event exercise
activity, will be summarized in an annual report.
In the past, each annual report has summarized data for a single
year. At
[[Page 73030]]
the Navy's suggestion, the annual reports under this final rule will
take a cumulative approach in that each report will compare data from
that year to all previous years. For example, the third annual report
will include data from the third year and compare it to data from the
first and second years. This will provide an ongoing cumulative look at
the Navy's results and eliminate the need for a comprehensive
monitoring and exercise summary report (as included in the proposed
rule). A draft of the annual report will be submitted to NMFS for
review in April of each year. NMFS will review the report and provide
comments to be addressed by the Navy within 3 months.
Ship Shock Trials
The reporting requirements will be developed in conjunction with
the individual test-specific mitigation plan for each ship shock trial.
This will allow both Navy and NMFS to take into account specific
information regarding location, assets, species, and seasonality.
Comments and Responses
On January 31, 2013, NMFS published a proposed rule (78 FR 7050) in
response to the Navy's request to take marine mammals incidental to
military readiness activities in the AFTT Study Area and solicited
comments, information, and suggestions concerning the proposed rule.
NMFS received over 900 comment letters from state agencies,
environmental non-governmental organizations, the Commission, and
interested members of the public. Comments specific to section
101(a)(5)(A) of the MMPA and NMFS' analysis of impacts to marine
mammals are summarized, sorted into general topic areas, and addressed
below and/or throughout the final rule. Comments specific to the FEIS/
OEIS, which NMFS participated in developing as a cooperating agency and
adopted, or that were also submitted to the Navy during the DEIS/OEIS
public comment period are addressed in Appendix E (Public
Participation) of the FEIS/OEIS. Last, some commenters presented
technical comments on the general behavioral risk function that are
largely identical to those submitted during the comment period for the
AFAST proposed rule, the predecessor to the AFTT rule. The behavioral
risk function remains unchanged since then, and here we incorporate our
responses to those initial technical comments (74 FR 4844, Behavior
Harassment Threshold section, pp. 4865-4867). Full copies of the
comment letters may be accessed at http://www.regulations.gov.
Monitoring and Reporting
Comment 1: The Commission recommended that we require the Navy to
use passive and active acoustics to supplement visual monitoring during
implementation of mitigation measures for all activities that could
cause Level A harassment or mortality. Specifically, the Commission
questioned why passive and active acoustic monitoring used during the
Navy's Surveillance Towed Array Sensory System Low Frequency Active
(SURTASS LFA) activities is not applied here.
Response: The Navy requested Level A take of marine mammals for
impulse and non-impulse sources during training and testing based on
its acoustic analysis. The Navy also requested take of marine mammals
by mortality for impulse sources, unspecified sources (impulse or non-
impulse), and vessel strike. While it is impractical for the Navy to
conduct passive acoustic monitoring during all training and testing
activities, the Navy has engineered the use of passive acoustic
detection for monitoring purposes, taking into consideration where the
largest impacts could potentially occur, and the effectiveness and
practicality of installing or using these devices. The Navy will use
passive acoustic monitoring to supplement visual observations during
Improved Extended Echo Ranging (IEER) sonobuoy activities, explosive
sonobuoys using 0.6-2.5 pound (lb) net explosive weight, torpedo
(explosive) testing, and sinking exercises, to detect marine mammal
vocalizations. However, it is important to note that passive acoustic
detections do not provide range or bearing to detected animals, and
therefore cannot provide locations of these animals. Passive acoustic
detections will be reported to lookouts to increase vigilance of the
visual surveillance.
The active sonar system used by SURTASS LFA is unique to the
platforms that use SURTASS LFA. Moreover, this system requires the
platforms that carry SURTASS LFA to travel at very slow speeds for the
system to be effective. For both of these reasons it is not possible
for the Navy to use this system for the platforms analyzed in the AFTT
FEIS/OEIS.
NMFS believes that the Navy's suite of mitigation measures (which
include mitigation zones that exceed or meet the predicted maximum
distance to PTS) will typically ensure that animals will not be exposed
to injurious levels of sound. To date, the post-explosive monitoring
reports submitted by the Navy for the East Coast Range Complexes and
Gulf of Mexico do not show any evidence of injured marine mammals.
Comment 2: The Commission recommended that NMFS require the Navy to
submit a proposed monitoring plan for public review and comment prior
to issuance of final regulations.
Response: NMFS provided an overview of the Navy's Integrated
Comprehensive Monitoring Program (ICMP) in the proposed rule (78 FR
7050, January 31, 2013). While the ICMP does not specify actual
monitoring field work or projects, it does establish top-level goals
that have been developed by the Navy and NMFS. As explained in the
proposed rule, detailed and specific studies will be developed as the
ICMP is implemented and funding is allocated.
Since the proposed rule was published, the Navy has provided a more
detailed short-term plan for the first year of the rule. 2014 will be a
transitional year with ongoing data collection straddling the shift
from Phase I (metric-based) to Phase II Compliance Monitoring.
Therefore, monitoring in 2014 will be a combination of previously
funded FY-13 ``carry-over'' projects from Phase I and new FY-14 project
starts under the vision for Phase II monitoring. A more detailed
description of the Navy's planned projects starting in 2014 (and some
continuing from previous years) are available on NMFS' Web site
(www.nmfs.noaa.gov/pr/permits/incidental.htm#applications).
Additionally, NMFS will provide one public comment period on the
Navy's monitoring program during the 5-year regulations. At this time,
the public will have an opportunity (likely in the second year) to
comment specifically on the Navy's AFTT monitoring projects and data
collection to date, as well as planned projects for the remainder of
the regulations. The public will also have the opportunity to review
the Navy's monitoring reports, which will be posted and available for
download every year from the Navy's marine species monitoring Web site:
http://www.navymarinespeciesmonitoring.us/. Details of already funded
AFTT monitoring projects and new start projects are available through
the Navy's marine species monitoring Web site: http://www.navymarinespeciesmonitoring.us/. The Navy will update the status of
their monitoring projects through the marine species monitoring site,
which serves as a public portal for information regarding all aspects
of the Navy's monitoring program, including background and guidance
documents, access to reports,
[[Page 73031]]
and specific information on current monitoring projects.
Through the adaptive management process (including annual
meetings), the Navy will coordinate with NMFS and the Commission to
review and revise, if required, the list of intermediate scientific
objectives that are used to guide development of individual monitoring
projects. As described previously in the Monitoring section of this
document, NMFS and the Commission will also have the opportunity to
attend annual monitoring program science review meetings and/or
regional Scientific Advisory Group meetings.
The Navy will continue to submit annual monitoring reports to NMFS,
which describe the results of the adaptive management process and
summarize the Navy's anticipated monitoring projects for the next
reporting year. NMFS will have a 3-month review period to comment on
the next year's planned projects, ongoing regional projects, and
proposed new project starts. NMFS' comments will be submitted to the
Navy prior to the annual adaptive management meeting to facilitate a
meaningful and productive discussion between NMFS, the Navy, and the
Commission.
Comment 3: One commenter shared concerns about how sequestration
will affect the Navy's marine mammal monitoring program and research
efforts.
Response: The Navy is required to comply with the terms of the
regulations and LOAs regardless of sequestration.
Comment 4: One commenter suggested that Navy lookouts should be
dedicated solely to the observation of marine mammals and turtles.
Response: The Navy has lookouts stationed onboard ships whose
primary duty is to detect objects in the water, estimate the distance
from the ship, and identify them as any number of inanimate or animate
objects that are significant to a Navy exercise or as a marine mammal
so that the mitigation measure can be implemented. Navy lookouts
undergo extensive training to learn these skills and the Navy's Marine
Species Awareness Training is used to make them more aware of marine
mammal species and behaviors. However, because lookouts must be able to
detect and identify multiple objects in the water to ensure the safety
of the ship, they are not expected to solely observe for marine mammals
and sea turtles.
Comment 5: NRDC recommended that the Navy use all available range
assets for marine mammal monitoring.
Response: NMFS has worked with the Navy over the years to help
develop the most effective mitigation protocols using the platforms and
assets that are available for monitoring. The required mitigation
measures in this document represent the maximum level of effort (e.g.,
numbers of lookouts and passive sonobuoys) that the Navy can commit to
observing mitigation zones given the number of personnel that will be
involved and the number and type of assets and resources available. The
Navy has determined that it is impractical to increase visual and
passive acoustic observations for the purpose of mitigation.
The National Defense Authorization Act of 2004 amended the MMPA as
it relates to military readiness activities (which these Navy
activities are) and the incidental take authorization process such that
``least practicable adverse impact'' shall include consideration of
personnel safety, practicality of implementation, and impact on the
effectiveness of the ``military readiness activity.'' As explained in
Chapter 5 of the AFTT FEIS/OEIS, it is impractical for the Navy to
increase the level of marine mammal monitoring. The Navy has a limited
number of resources (e.g., personnel and other assets) and the
monitoring requirements in this rulemaking represent the maximum level
of effort that the Navy can commit to marine mammal monitoring.
Mitigation
Comment 6: One commenter believes that using lookouts as the
primary strategy for limiting potential impacts from Navy activities is
inadequate.
Response: NMFS disagrees. Navy Lookouts are a vital aspect of this
strategy for limiting potential impacts from Navy activities. Lookouts
are qualified and experienced observers of the marine environment. All
Lookouts take part in Marine Species Awareness Training so that they
are better prepared to spot marine mammals. Their duties require that
they report all objects sighted in the water to the Office of the Deck
(OOD) and all disturbances that may be indicative of a threat to the
vessel and its crew. Lookouts are on duty at all times, day and night,
when a ship or surfaced submarine is moving through the water. Visual
detections of marine mammals would be communicated immediately to a
watch station for information disseminations and appropriate mitigation
action. NMFS has carefully considered Navy's use of Lookouts and
determined that in combination with the use of planning awareness areas
to minimize impacts in areas of higher concern, the Stranding Response
Plans, special measures to minimize impacts to North Atlantic right
whales and the other mitigation measures identified, the Navy's
mitigation plan will effect the least practicable adverse impacts on
marine mammal species or stocks and their habitat.
Comment 7: One commenter asked that the Navy stay away from areas
of high marine mammal density during their training and testing.
Response: Avoiding all areas of high marine mammal density for the
purpose of mitigation would be impractical with respect to
implementation of military readiness activities, would result in
unacceptable impacts on readiness, and would increase safety risks to
personnel for the following reasons: areas where training and testing
activities are scheduled to occur are carefully selected to provide
safety and allow realism of events, and the varying environmental
conditions of these areas maximize the training realism and testing
effectiveness; activity locations inevitably overlap with a wide array
of marine mammal habitats, and limiting activities to avoid all of
those areas would adversely impact the effectiveness of the training or
testing activity, which would result in an unacceptable adverse risk to
personnel safety and the ability to achieve mission goals.
However, the Navy has designated several Planning Awareness Areas
(PAAs), in which activities are limited, based on areas of high
productivity that have been correlated with high concentrations of
marine mammals (e.g., persistent oceanographic features such as
upwellings associated with the Gulf Stream front where it is deflected
off the east coast near the Outer Banks of North Carolina), and areas
of steep bathymetric contours that are frequented by deep-diving marine
mammals (e.g., beaked whales and sperm whales). As part of the MMPA
process and a result of public input, NMFS and the Navy considered
additional available information related to known feeding and
reproductive areas for certain species, as well as resident
populations, and as a result of this process, the Navy has extended the
boundary in the eastern Gulf of Mexico PAA to further protect a
population of Bryde's whale that has been exclusively observed in that
area year-round.
Comment 8: The Commission requested that NMFS require the Navy to
cease use of sound sources and not reinitiate them for (1) at least 15
minutes if small odontocetes or pinnipeds enter the mitigation zone and
[[Page 73032]]
are not observed to leave; and (2) relevant time periods based on the
maximum dive times of mysticetes or large- or medium-sized odontocetes
if they enter the mitigation zone and are not observed to leave. Other
commenters also suggested that activities should not resume until the
animal is observed to exit the mitigation zone or the target has been
repositioned more than 366 meters away from the last marine mammal
sighting; and that monitoring the mitigation zone for 30 minutes,
before, during, and after the activity is insufficient for deep-diving
species.
Response: Section 5.3 of the AFTT FEIS/OEIS details the mitigation
measures in place for each type of activity. These mitigation measures
are also provided in the regulatory text at the end of this document.
In summary, depending on the specific activity type and following the
shutdown or delay of any acoustic activities, the Navy may resume
activities if any one of the following conditions are met: (1) The
animal is observed exiting the mitigation zone; (2) the animal is
thought to have exited the mitigation zone based on a determination of
its course and speed and the relative motion between the animal and the
source; (3) the mitigation zone has been clear from any additional
sightings for a period of 30 minutes (or 10 minutes for certain types
of aircraft); or (4) the intended target location has been repositioned
more than 400 yd (366 m) away from the location of the last sighting;
(5) the ship has transited more than 140 yd (128 m) (large-caliber
gunnery exercises) or 2,000 yd (1.8 km) (active sonar) beyond the
location of the last sighting; or (6) dolphins are bow riding and there
are no other marine mammal sightings within the mitigation zone.
The Commission expressed concern regarding the Navy's ability to
determine the relative position of an animal. Understanding relative
motion is a critical skill for Navy personnel, who receive training in
target and contact tracking, target and contact interception, multi-
ship maneuvering drills, etc. While an animal may occasionally act
unpredictably, it is more likely that the animal will be seen leaving
the mitigation zone or Navy personnel will be able to track the
animal's location.
With regard to maximum dive times, NMFS disagrees that the
clearance time should be lengthened for deep-diving species for the
following reasons: (1) Just because an animal can dive for longer than
30 minutes does not mean that they always do, so a longer delay would
only potentially add value in instances when animals had remained
underwater for more than 30 minutes; (2) The animal would need to have
stayed in the immediate vicinity of the sound source for more than 30
minutes. Considering the maximum area that both the vessel and the
animal could cover in an hour, it is improbable that this would
randomly occur. For example, during a 1-hour dive by a beaked whale or
sperm whale, a mid-frequency active sonar ship moving at a nominal
speed of 10 knots could transit up to 10 nautical miles from its
original location. Additionally, the times when marine mammals are
diving deep (i.e., the times when they are under the water for longer
periods of time) are the same times that a large portion of their
motion is in the vertical direction, which means that they are far less
likely to keep pace with a horizontally moving vessel. Moreover,
considering that many animals have been shown to avoid both acoustic
sources and ships without acoustic sources, it is improbable that a
deep-diving cetacean (as opposed to a dolphin that might bow ride)
would choose to remain in the immediate vicinity of the acoustic
source; (3) Visual observers are not always able to differentiate
species to the degree that would be necessary to implement this
measure; and (4) Increasing clearance time is not operationally
feasible for Navy activities that require aircraft surveillance because
of fuel limitations. NMFS does not believe that increasing the
clearance time based on maximum dive times will add to the protection
of marine mammals in the vast majority of cases, and therefore, we have
not required it.
Comment 9: The Commission recommended that NMFS require the Navy to
either (1) adjust the size of the mitigation zone for mine
neutralization activities using the average swim speed of the fastest
swimming marine mammal occurring in the area where time-delay firing
devices will be used and ensure that the zone is adequately monitored;
or (2) authorize all model-estimated takes for Level A harassment and
mortality for mine neutralization activities in which divers use time-
delay firing devices.
Response: The Navy proposed a mitigation zone of 1,000 yards for
all charge sizes (5, 10, and 20 lb) and for a maximum time-delay of 10
minutes. This is the maximum distance that lookouts in two small boats
can realistically monitor. The use of more than two boats for
monitoring during time-delay firing device events is impractical due to
the Navy's limited personnel resources. The Navy's proposed mitigation
zone covers the potential for mortality up to a 9-minute time delay
(but not 10-minute). The proposed mitigation zone also covers the
potential for injury up to a 5-minute time-delay for 10 and 20 lb
charges, and a 6-minute time-delay for 5 lb charges, but not for time
delays greater than 6 minutes for any charge size. As a result of the
mitigation zone restriction and the Commission's recommendation, and
based on the Navy's modeling results and mitigation effectiveness, the
Navy has requested 6 mortalities and 48 Level A injuries for any
training or testing event (not just underwater detonations), in case of
an unavoidable incident.
Comment 10: Several commenters suggested that the proposed
mitigation measures were inadequate because observers do not always
detect marine mammals and cannot see as far as sound travels.
Response: It is the duty of Navy lookouts to detect marine mammals
in the water and estimate the distance from the ship so that the
mitigation measures (shut-down, power-down, etc.) can be implemented.
Navy Lookouts undergo extensive training to learn these skills and the
Marine Species Awareness Training is used to augment this general
training with information specific to marine mammals. However, the
mitigation measures the Navy is implementing are designed primarily to
avoid and minimize the likelihood of mortality and injury, which are
associated with acoustic exposures above a certain level, and therefore
it is not necessary to see as far as sound travels to successfully
implement the mitigation measures.
Comment 11: Several commenters requested that the proposed
activities be limited to periods of good visibility, avoid biologically
sensitive areas, establish meaningful buffer zones, and improve and
expand mitigation methods.
Response: The Navy explained in Chapter 5 of the AFTT FEIS/OEIS
that avoiding or reducing active sonar at night and during periods of
low visibility for the purpose of mitigation would result in an
unacceptable impact on readiness. In summary, the Navy must train in a
variety of conditions (including at night and in low-visibility) to
adequately train for military operations. However, certain activities,
such as those involving explosives greater than 20 lb net explosive
weight, are currently conducted during daylight hours only.
Planning Awareness Areas (PAAs) and Mitigation Areas for North
Atlantic right whales are already in place for the Navy's training and
testing activities.
[[Page 73033]]
Several PAAs have been designated by the Navy based on locations of
high productivity correlated with high concentrations of marine mammals
(such as persistent oceanographic features like upwellings associated
with the Gulf Stream front where it is deflected off the east coast
near the Outer Banks), and areas of steep bathymetric contours that are
frequented by deep diving marine mammals such as beaked whales and
sperm whales. In addition, the Cetacean Density and Distribution
Mapping Working Group is currently involved in a process to compile
available literature and solicit expert review to identify areas and
times where species are known to concentrate for specific behaviors or
be range-limited. These areas, called Biologically Important Areas
(BIAs) are useful for planning and impact assessment. As a result of
the Navy's Biological Assessment and Operational Assessment of
potential mitigation measures, including draft BIAs, the Navy
recommends extending the boundary of the eastern Gulf of Mexico
planning awareness area to further protect a population of Bryde's
whale that has been exclusively observed in that area year-round.
The Navy developed mitigation zones to avoid or reduce the
potential for onset of the lowest level of injury, PTS, out to the
predicted maximum range. Mitigating to the predicted maximum range to
PTS also mitigates to the predicted maximum range to onset mortality (1
percent mortality), onset slight lung injury, and onset slight
gastrointestinal tract injury, since the maximum range to effects for
these criteria are shorter than for PTS. For low-frequency and hull-
mounted mid-frequency active sonar, the Navy will implement a 6 dB
power down at 1,000 yards (914 m), a 4 dB power down at 500 yards (457
m), and shutdown at 200 yards (183 m). Both powerdown criteria exceed
the predicted average and maximum ranges to PTS. NMFS believes that
these mitigation zone distances will help avoid the potential for onset
of PTS in marine mammals and reduce the potential for TTS.
Comment 12: One commenter states that the Navy should not use
active sonar and only use passive sonar. In addition, the commenter
believes that testing should be conducted in another water environment
such as a pool, river, lake, stream, or estuary.
Response: As stated in the Navy's AFTT FEIS/OEIS, the Navy uses
sonar systems and other acoustic sensors in support of a variety of
mission requirements. Primary uses include detection of and defense
against submarines (anti-submarine warfare) and mines (mine warfare);
safe navigation and effective communications; and oceanographic
surveys. Active sonar emits sound waves that travel through the water,
reflect off objects, and return to the receiver. Passive sonar uses
listening equipment, such as an underwater microphone (hydrophone) and
receiving sensors on ships, submarine, aircraft, and autonomous
vehicles, to pick up underwater sounds. Although passive sonar can
indicate the presence, character, and direction of ships and
submarines, it has become increasingly ineffective at detecting modern,
quieter submarines. Therefore, Navy training and testing activities
must include active sonar in order to ensure safety of ships and crew
and meet its statutory mission.
With respect to training in other water environments, the Navy
indicated in its AFTT FEIS/OEIS that the ranges used for training and
testing have evolved over decades because these geographic areas allow
for the entire spectrum of training and testing to occur. In addition,
no other locations match the unique attributes found in the AFTT Study
Area, and no other potential locations where land ranges, OPAREAs,
undersea terrain and ranges, testing ranges, and military airspace
combine to provide the venues necessary for the training and testing
realism and effectiveness required to train and certify naval forces.
Comment 13: Several commenters recommended that the Navy use more
than one lookout during all training and testing activities.
Response: The Navy will have more than one lookout for several
higher risk training and testing activities or where the ensonified
area is larger, such as while using low-frequency and hull-mounted mid-
frequency active sonar, mine countermeasure and neutralization
activities, sinking exercises, and ship shock trials. For the reasons
stated below, the Navy cannot use more than one lookout for all
training and testing activities. However, a minimum of one lookout
would always be required. The National Defense Authorization Act of
2004 amended the MMPA as it relates to military readiness activities
(which these Navy activities are) and the incidental take authorization
process such that ``least practicable adverse impact'' shall include
consideration of personnel safety, practicality of implementation, and
impact on the effectiveness of the ``military readiness activity.'' As
explained in Chapter 5 of the AFTT FEIS/OEIS, it is impractical for the
Navy to increase visual observations for the purpose of mitigation
beyond the amounts that have already been established in coordination
with NMFS. The Navy has a limited number of resources (e.g., personnel
and other assets) and the mitigation requirements in this rulemaking
represent the maximum level of effort that the Navy can commit to
observing mitigation zones. Also, the use of additional lookouts in
association with lower risk activities with smaller ensonified areas
would be not be expected to provide as much protective value as is
provided for the activities mentioned above.
Comment 14: Several commenters suggested that the Navy limit their
activities to periods of good visibility. More specifically, NRDC
suggested that all weapons firing in missile, bombing, and sinking
exercises involving detonations exceeding 20 lb. net explosive weight
take place during the period 1 hour after sunrise to 30 minutes before
sunset.
Response: The Navy explained in Chapter 5 of the AFTT FEIS/OEIS
that avoiding or reducing active sonar at night and during periods of
low visibility for the purpose of mitigation would result in an
unacceptable impact on readiness. In summary, the Navy must train and
test in a variety of conditions (including at night and in low-
visibility) to adequately train for military operations and ensure that
systems and equipment operate as intended. However, certain activities,
such as those involving explosives greater than 20 lb net explosive
weight, are currently conducted during daylight hours only. The Navy
does not anticipate impacts to the training or testing programs, as
long as training or testing requirements do not change; however, the
Navy needs to retain the ability to conduct these activities at night
if emergent requirements dictate the need for this capability.
The Navy will use passive acoustic monitoring to supplement visual
observations during Improved Extended Echo Ranging (IEER) sonobuoy
activities, explosive sonouboys using 0.6-2.5 pound net explosive
weight, torpedo (explosive) testing, and sinking exercises, to detect
marine mammal vocalizations. However, it is important to note that
passive acoustic detections do not provide range or bearing to detected
animals, and therefore cannot provide locations of these animals.
Passive acoustic detections will be reported to lookouts to increase
vigilance of the visual surveillance.
Comment 15: One commenter suggested that Navy training and testing
activities could be significantly reduced
[[Page 73034]]
while still maintaining military readiness.
Response: The Navy has identified the level of training and testing
requirements that are necessary to meet its legally mandated
requirements. NMFS' must decide whether to authorize the take of marine
mammals incidental to an applicant's proposed action based on the
factors contained in the MMPA; NMFS does not permit or authorize the
underlying action itself. In this case, NMFS has determined that the
Navy's training and testing activities will have a negligible impact on
the affected species or stocks and has met all other statutory
requirements, therefore, we plan to issue the requested MMPA
authorization.
Comment 16: NRDC and other commenters recommended an expansion of
the Navy's mitigation zones during the use of MFAS to reflect
international best practice (4 km) or the standard prescribed by the
California Coastal Commission (2 km).
Response: The Navy developed mitigation zones to avoid or reduce
the potential for onset of the lowest level of injury, PTS, out to the
predicted maximum range. For low-frequency and hull-mounted mid-
frequency active sonar, the Navy will implement a 6 dB power down at
1,000 yards (914 m), a 4 dB power down at 500 yards (457 m), and
shutdown at 200 yards (183 m). Both powerdown criteria exceed the
predicted average and maximum ranges to PTS. NMFS believes that these
mitigation zone distances will help avoid the potential for onset of
PTS in marine mammals and reduce the potential for TTS. These shutdown
zones, combined with other mitigation measures, are expected to effect
the least practicable adverse impact on marine mammal species or stocks
and their habitat.
Furthermore, the Navy developed mitigation zones represent the
maximum area the Navy can observe based on the platform of observation,
number of personnel that will be involved, and the number and types of
assets and resources available. Increasing the size of observed
mitigation zones for the purposes of mitigation would be impractical
with regard to implementation of military readiness activities and
result in an unacceptable impact on readiness.
Comment 17: NRDC recommended that the Navy use sonar and other
active acoustic sources at the lowest practicable source level.
Response: The Navy utilizes sonar and other active acoustic sources
to support a variety of missions. Primary uses of sonar include
detection of and defense against submarines (anti-submarine warfare)
and mines (mine warfare); safe navigation and effective communications;
and oceanographic surveys. The source levels must be adequate to
perform these tasks, but mitigation measures (e.g., powerdown and
shutdown) will be implemented if marine mammals are within or
approaching established zones. The Navy will submit annual exercise and
testing reports to NMFS that summarize exercise activities related to
their activities. These reports will be made available to the public
via NMFS' Web site and the U.S. Navy Marine Species Monitoring web
portal.
Comment 18: NRDC suggested that the Navy delay or relocate
activities when beaked whales are detected through passive acoustic
monitoring, even if potentially occurring beyond the established
mitigation zone.
Response: This recommendation is impractical for the Navy because
operators of passive acoustic systems may not be able to identify
whether a vocalization is from a beaked whale. However, all passive
acoustic detections will be reported to lookouts to increase vigilance
of the visual surveillance.
Comment 19: NRDC suggested that the Navy use gliders or other
platforms for pre-activity monitoring to avoid significant aggregations
of marine mammals and delay or relocate activities when significant
aggregations of marine mammals are detected within the vicinity of an
exercise.
Response: The development of passive acoustic detectors on gliders
and other platforms is still in the research and development stages
under funding from the Office of Naval Research and the Navy's new
Living Marine Resources programs. While promising, many of the various
technologies are still being tested and not ready for transition to
compliance monitoring where a higher degree of performance is needed.
Gliders, even if able to report in real-time, or even delayed near
real-time, would only be able to document the presence of marine
mammals, not the marine mammal distance from the glider or individual
animal movement. In many places Navy activity occurs there are almost
near constant small odontocete passive acoustic detections. Finally,
gliders would only provide an indication that animals are in the area,
but these same animals could easily move substantial distances over the
course of just a few hours. In some cases, use of gliders in and around
where Navy submarines also operate is an underwater safety hazard to
the submarine and to the glider. Gliders and other passive acoustic
platforms, therefore, are more appropriate for broad area searches
within Navy ranges to document marine mammal seasonal occurrence, but
are not practical as a mitigation tool.
The Navy will implement mitigation measures for all marine mammals,
regardless of species, if they approach or enter a mitigation zone,
which were calculated to help avoid the potential for onset of PTS and
reduce the potential for TTS. Additionally, the Navy has already
identified and limited activity in the PAAs, which were developed based
on areas of high productivity correlated with high concentrations of
marine mammals (such as persistent oceanographic features like
upwellings associated with the Gulf Stream front where it is deflected
off the east coast near the Outer Banks), and areas of steep
bathymetric contours that are frequented by deep diving marine mammals
such as beaked whales and sperm whales.
Comment 20: NRDC suggested that the Navy use simulated geography
and planning of ship tracks to reduce or eliminate chokepoint exercises
in near-coastal environments, particularly within canyons and channels
or other important habitat. Similarly, NRDC suggested the use of
dedicated aerial monitors during chokepoint exercises, major exercises,
and near-coastal exercises.
Response: For decades, the Navy has been using simulated electronic
depictions of land in some of its at-sea exercises. However, the types
of exercises the commenter refers to are critical to realistic and
effective training due to the unique sound propagation characteristics
and they cannot be replicated by simulated geography. The Navy will
implement mitigation for all training and testing activities to
minimize any potential effects.
Specific aerial monitoring is not typically feasible given the
limited duration of typical monitoring flights (less than 4 hours). In
addition, there are significant flight safety considerations and
airspace restrictions during major exercises when larger groups of
military aircraft are present in high numbers at various altitudes.
It is important to note that the Navy does have a particular set of
monitoring measures (intended to help reduce the chance of a stranding)
that would be applied if circumstances are thought to make a stranding
more likely (e.g., steep bathymetry, multiple vessels in a single area
over an extended period of time, constricted channels or embayments).
However, there are no areas with these
[[Page 73035]]
features included in the AFTT Study Area.
Comment 21: NRDC stated that the Navy did not account for
reverberation in its modeling and also suggested the use of additional
powerdowns when significant surface ducting conditions coincide with
other conditions that elevate risk (such as during exercises involving
the use of multiple systems or in beaked whale habitat).
Response: The Navy's propagation model used for all non-impulsive
modeling accommodates surface and bottom boundary interactions
(including reverberation), but does not account for side reflections
that would be a factor in a highly reverberant environment, such as a
depression or canyon, or in a man-made structure, such as a dredged
harbor. The details of the Navy's propagation model are provided in a
technical report (``Determination of acoustic effects on marine mammals
and sea turtles for the Atlantic Training and Testing EIS/OEIS,''
aftteis.com).
Based on the lessons learned from five beaked whale stranding
events, all of which took place outside of the AFTT Study Area, and
occurred over approximately a decade, exposure of beaked whales to mid-
frequency active sonar in the presence of certain conditions (e.g.,
multiple units using tactical sonar, steep bathymetry, constricted
channels, strong surface ducts, etc.) may result in strandings,
potentially leading to mortality. Although these physical features are
not present on the Atlantic Coast of the U.S. or in the Gulf of Mexico
in the aggregate, scientific uncertainty exists regarding what other
factors, or combination of factors, may contribute to beaked whale
strandings.
To minimize risk to beaked whales, during exercise planning,
several conditions will be considered: (1) Areas of at least 1000 m
depth near a shoreline where there is rapid change in bathymetry on the
order of 1000-6000 m occurring across a relatively short horizontal
distance (e.g., 5 nm); (2) cases for which multiple ships or submarines
(>=3) are operating active sonar in the same area over extended periods
of time (>=6 hours) in close proximity (<=10 nm apart); (3) an area
surrounded by land masses, separated by less than 35 nm and at least 10
nm in length, or an embayment, wherein operations involving multiple
ships/subs (>=3) employing active sonar near land may produce sound
directed toward the channel or embayment that may cut off the lines of
egress for marine mammals; and (4) though not as dominant a condition
as bathymetric features, the historical presence of a strong surface
duct (i.e., mixed layer of constant water temperature extending from
the sea surface to 100 or more feet).
If a major exercise must occur in an area where the above
conditions exist in the aggregate, these conditions must be fully
analyzed in environmental planning documentation. The Navy will
increase vigilance by undertaking the following additional protective
measure: a dedicated aircraft (Navy asset or contracted aircraft) will
undertake reconnaissance of the embayment or channel ahead of the
exercise participants to detect marine mammals that may be in the area
exposed to active sonar. Where practical, the advance survey should
occur within about 2 hours prior to sonar use and periodic surveillance
should continue for the duration of the exercise. Any unusual
conditions (e.g., presence of marine mammals, groups of species milling
out of habitat, and any stranded animals) shall be reported to the
Officer in Tactical Command, who should give consideration to delaying,
suspending, or altering the activity. All mitigation zone power down
requirements described in the Mitigation section will apply. Finally,
the post-exercise report must include specific reference to any event
conducted in areas where the above conditions exist, with exact
location and time/duration of the event and noting results of surveys
conducted.
Comment 22: NRDC suggested the suspension or postponement of
chokepoint exercises during surface ducting conditions and scheduling
of such exercises during daylight hours.
Response: See responses to Comments 14, 20, 21, and 34.
Comment 23: NRDC suggested the use of aerial surveys and ship-based
surveys before, during, and after major exercises.
Response: As proposed, and detailed in the AFTT FEIS/OEIS, the Navy
will implement pre-exercise aerial observation as a mitigation measure
for Improved Extended Echo Ranging (IEER) sonobuoys and explosive buoys
using 0.6-2.5 pound net explosive weight, mine countermeasure and
neutralization activities using positive control firing devices
involving explosives in bin E11 (501-650 pound net explosive weight),
and sinking exercises. Aerial monitoring will continue throughout the
duration of these exercises. This amount of monitoring represents the
maximum level of effort that the Navy can commit to observing
mitigation zones given the number of personnel and assets available.
Surveys before, during, and after major exercises would require an
inordinate amount of resources that are not available and would have a
significant impact on readiness.
In addition to the monitoring required to implement mitigation, the
Navy is also committed to a robust marine mammal monitoring program
designed to answer specific questions about the effects of the Navy's
activities on marine mammals. The Navy uses visual surveys (by trained
protected species observers; from aircraft and vessels), passive
acoustic monitoring devices, and tagging as some of the methods to best
detect and evaluate any effects. See the Navy's monitoring reports at
http://www.navymarinespeciesmonitoring.us/.
Comment 24: NRDC suggested the use of NMFS-certified observers for
marine mammal detection and several commenters requested further
information on the Navy's lookout effectiveness study. More
specifically, NRDC suggested that the Navy complete a lookout
effectiveness study comparing the abilities of Navy vessel-based
lookouts and third-party protected species observers. If Navy lookouts
are significantly less likely to detect marine mammals, NRDC recommends
the use of NMFS-certified lookouts or other monitoring enhancements.
Response: The Navy has determined that the use of third-party
observers (e.g., NMFS-certified protected species observers) in air or
on surface platforms in addition to existing Navy lookouts for the
purposes of mitigation is impractical for the following reasons: the
use of third-party observers would compromise security for some
activities involving active sonar due to the requirement to provide
advance notification of specific times and locations of Navy platforms;
reliance on the availability of third-party personnel could impact
training and testing flexibility; the presence of additional aircraft
in the vicinity of naval activities would raise safety concerns; and
there is limited space aboard Navy vessels. Furthermore, Navy personnel
are extensively trained in spotting items on or near the water surface
and receive more hours of training than many third-party personnel.
The Navy undertakes monitoring of marine mammals during training
and testing activities and has mitigation procedures designed to
minimize risk to these animals. One key component of this monitoring
and mitigation is the shipboard lookouts (also known as watchstanders),
who are part of the standard operating procedure that ships use to
detect objects (including marine mammals) within a specific area around
the ship during events. The lookouts are an element of the Navy's
monitoring plan, as required by NMFS and
[[Page 73036]]
specified in the LOAs. The goal is to detect marine mammals entering
ranges of 200, 500, and 1,000 yd (183, 457, and 914 m) around the
vessel, which correspond to distances at which various mitigation
actions should be performed. In addition to the lookouts, officers on
the bridge search visually and sonar operators listen for marine mammal
vocalizations. All of these observers together are referred to as the
observation team.
In 2010, the Navy initiated a study designed to evaluate the
effectiveness of the Navy lookout team. The University of St. Andrews,
Scotland, under contract to the Navy, developed an initial data
collection protocol for use during the study. Between 2010 and 2012,
trained Navy marine mammal observers collected data during nine field
trials as part of a ``proof of concept'' phase. The goal of the proof
of concept phase was to develop a statistically valid protocol for
quantitatively analyzing the effectiveness of lookouts during Navy
training exercises. Field trials were conducted in the HRC, SOCAL Range
Complex, and Jacksonville Range Complex onboard one frigate, one
cruiser, and seven destroyers. Preliminary analysis of the proof of
concept data is ongoing. The Navy is also working to finalize the data
collection process for use during the next phase of the study. While
data was collected as part of this proof of concept phase, those data
are not fairly comparable because protocols were being changed and
assessed, nor are those data statistically significant. Therefore, it
is improper to use these data to draw any conclusions on the
effectiveness of Navy lookouts at this time.
In addition, given the distance from shore and especially the
dynamic and moving nature of major training events (MTEs) where sonar
platforms can be widely dispersed and then move on to another area,
aerial or ship-based civilian monitoring concurrent to MTEs would not
be logistically practical or safe. Before and after surveys would only
duplicate similar marine mammal sightings that have already been
conducted under the previous Navy rulemakings. During the period from
2009 to 2012, the Navy has visually surveyed a great expanse of ocean
within the AFAST Study Area and Gulf of Mexico Range Complex with
marine mammal sightings described in annual monitoring reports as well
as posted electronically on public online data portals. While
contributing to the body of science on marine mammal occurrence, these
broad area surveys are less informative for monitoring of Navy impacts
to marine mammals. The Navy's revised monitoring plan consists of more
focused objective-oriented studies to address both species-specific
occurrence and determine impact or lack of impact from training and
testing activities.
Comment 25: NRDC recommended that the Navy comply with underwater
detonation and gunnery exercise mitigation measures as set forth in
NMFS' final rule for the Southern California (SOCAL) Range Complex.
Response: The mitigation measures for underwater detonation and
gunnery exercises in NMFS' final rule for the SOCAL Range Complex have
been carried over to AFTT and HSTT (i.e., mitigation zones around the
intended target, monitoring before and during the exercise, avoidance
of sighted marine mammals). There have been some slight modifications
to the time-delay firing device (TDFD) mitigation to account for
resource limitations in the number of available boats and lookouts.
Comment 26: NRDC recommended the use of dedicated aerial monitoring
for all Navy explosive activities using time-delay firing devices and/
or all activities involving explosives greater than 20 lb. net
explosive weight.
Response: Time-delay firing device events can occur over several
hours and the exact detonation time is dependent on multiple variables
including, but not limited to, weather, background traffic, training
requirements, delays for mitigation, etc., that make it impractical and
unsafe to have aircraft surveys. Time-delay firing device events also
typically occur near commercial and military airspace that would pose a
serious risk to the survey and non-survey aircraft.
Mitigation during explosive events (greater than 20 lb. net
explosive weight) already includes the use of available aircraft for
mitigation monitoring. However, these activities can occur offshore and
over several hours duration, making a dedicated aerial survey platform
unsafe and impractical. The Navy has mitigation zones in place designed
to minimize potential effects from all explosive activities.
Comment 27: NRDC suggested avoidance and reduction in the use of
time-delay firing devices in favor of explosives with positive
controls.
Response: The Navy has explained their use of time-delay firing
devices in previous documents (LOA application for the Silver Strand
Training Complex, LOA application for the Hawaii Range Complex, the
VACAPES LOA renewal, and the AFTT FEIS/OEIS). The Navy relies on both
time-delay and positive control to initiate underwater detonations,
depending on the training event and objectives. The Navy has cited
time-delay firing devices as the simplest, safest, least expensive,
most operationally acceptable method of initiating an underwater
detonation. They are preferred due to their light weight, low magnetic
signature, and reduced risk of accidental detonation from nearby radios
or other electronics. Time-delay firing devices allow sufficient time
for personnel to swim outside of the detonation plume radius and human
safety buffer zone after the timer is set. The Navy considers it
critical that personnel qualify annually with necessary time-delay
certification, maintain proficiency, and train to face real-world
scenarios that require the use of time-delay firing devices. However,
the Navy does strive to use positive control detonation whenever
feasible depending on the training need. Within the SSTC portion of
HSTT for instance, during the last year of the 86 completed underwater
detonations with charge weights between 10-20 lb net explosive weight,
only two TDFDs were used; the remaining 84 detonations used positive
control.
Time-delay firing devices raised concern in 2011, when three or
four long-beaked common dolphins were killed in an explosion during an
underwater detonation training event. About 5 minutes remained on a
time-delay fuse when a pod of long-beaked common dolphins was observed,
but attempts to guide the dolphins away from the area were
unsuccessful. Following the event, the Navy worked with NMFS to develop
a more robust monitoring and mitigation plan to ensure that marine
mammal mortality and injury would not occur during activities that
involve time-delay firing devices. NMFS incorporated additional
mitigation and monitoring measures into the appropriate authorizations.
Those additions are being carried over to the AFTT rule, with some
modifications to the mitigation zone and number of observers due to the
impracticality of the initial changes. As detailed in the proposed
rule, NMFS believes that the Navy's modifications will still reduce the
potential for injury and mortality because (1) the mitigation zone
exceeds the predicted ranges to TTS and PTS; (2) the number of lookouts
for a 1,000-yd (915-m) mitigation zone would not change; (3) the
maximum net explosive weight would decrease; (4) monitoring 30 minutes
before, during, and 30 minutes after the activity would still take
place;
[[Page 73037]]
and (5) time-delay firing device activities are only conducted during
daylight hours.
Comment 28: NRDC suggested that the Navy should evaluate before
each major exercise whether reductions in sonar are possible, given the
readiness status of the strike groups involved.
Response: The Navy only uses active sonar for validated training
requirements, so this type of pre-exercise evaluation is unnecessary.
Comment 29: NRDC recommended that the Navy establish a plan and
timetable for maximizing synthetic training in order to reduce the use
of active sonar training.
Response: As described in section 2.5.1.3 of the AFTT FEIS/OEIS,
the Navy currently uses computer simulation for training and testing
whenever possible. Computer simulation can provide familiarity and
complement live training; however, it cannot provide the fidelity and
level of training necessary to prepare naval forces for deployment.
The Navy is required to provide a ready and capable force. In doing
so, the Navy must operationally test major platforms, systems, and
components of these platforms and systems in realistic combat
conditions before full-scale production can occur. Substituting
simulation for live training and testing fails to meet the Navy's
statutory requirement to properly prepare forces for National defense.
Comment 30: NRDC recommended that specific mitigation requirements
be prescribed for individual classes (or sub-classes) of training and
testing activities in order to maximize mitigation given varying sets
of operational needs.
Response: NMFS has already worked with the Navy to develop
mitigation by activity type to reduce potential impacts on marine
mammals. The regulatory text of this document details the different
types of mitigation required for different activities.
Comment 31: NRDC recommended that the Navy submit timely, regular
reports to NMFS, state coastal management authorities, and the public
to describe and verify use of mitigation measures during training and
testing activities.
Response: The Navy will be required to submit annual reports and
the unclassified portions of these reports will be made available to
the public through NMFS' Web site. The reports will include a
description of the mitigation measures implemented during major
training exercises and will also include an evaluation of the
effectiveness of any mitigation measure implemented.
Comment 32: Several commenters recommended additional mitigation,
including exclusion zones and time-area closures, and suggested that
NMFS did not provide any additional mitigation to the Navy's proposed
measures in order to reduce impacts on marine mammals.
Response: Exclusion zones (termed ``mitigation zones'' in the
proposed rule and this document) are already in place for the Navy's
training and testing activities. Training and testing activities
require continuous access to large areas consisting potentially of
thousands of square miles of ocean and air space to provide naval
personnel the ability to train with and develop competence and
confidence in their capabilities and their entire suite of weapons and
sensors. Exercises may change mid-stream based on evaluators'
assessment of performance and other conditions including weather or
mechanical issues. These preclude use of a time-area closure scheme for
access to water space.
NMFS has been heavily involved in developing the Navy's suite of
mitigation measures since 2007. Many of the Navy's proposed mitigation
measures were a result of NMFS' input over the past 5 years. It is also
important to note that the NDAA of 2004 amended the MMPA to require the
consideration of personnel safety, practicality of implementation, and
impact on the effectiveness of the ``military readiness activity'' when
determining the ``least practicable adverse impact.'' Mitigation
measures that the Navy considered, but could not implement, are
included in the FEIS/OEIS.
Finally, NMFS did require additional measures beyond those
initially proposed by the Navy in its application, including both the
expansion of the Gulf of Mexico PAA to further protect the resident
population of Bryde's whales as well as the 500-yd mitigation zone for
whales around all vessels.
Comment 33: Several commenters suggested that the Navy's activities
should be moved to pelagic sea depths, away from continental shelves
and islands to reduce impacts on marine mammals.
Response: As stated in the AFTT FEIS/OEIS, the Navy has eliminated
from consideration alternative training and testing locations because
there are no other potential locations where land ranges, OPAREAs,
undersea terrain and ranges, testing ranges, and military airspace
combine to provide the venues necessary for the training and testing
realism and effectiveness required to train and certify naval forces
ready for combat operations. Training and testing in shallow water is
an essential component to maintaining military readiness. Sound
propagates differently in shallow water and operators must learn to
train in this environment. Additionally, submarines have become quieter
through the use of improved technology and have learned to hide in the
higher ambient noise levels of the shallow coastal waters. In real
world events, it is likely that sailors would be working in, and
therefore must train in, and use systems that have been tested in,
these types of environments.
However, the Navy has already reduced impacts in shallow areas by
limiting activities in PAAs (as described elsewhere), and the ESA and
MMPA permitting processes have resulted in additional mitigation
measures, including geographic constraints within the AFTT study area
to further protect a resident population of Bryde's whale in the Gulf
of Mexico. In addition, following the implementation of the rule and
issuance of LOAs, the adaptive management process will also provide a
mechanism for considering if modifications to mitigation measures are
necessary in the future.
Comment 34: NRDC recommended that the Navy avoid or reduce their
activities during months with historically significant surface ducting
conditions.
Response: The Navy's activities must be conducted during all months
and in a variety of conditions in order for the Navy to meet its
mission. Training schedules are driven by deployment requirements,
which are established by the Department of Defense and the President.
These schedules are dynamic based on real world events, ship
availability, and numerous other factors that prevent the Navy from
being confined to certain months. Similarly, Navy testing schedules are
driven by Fleet maintenance, repair, and modernization needs; and the
delivery of Navy ships, aircraft, and systems to support these training
and deployment requirement, and cannot be confined to certain months.
Therefore, the Navy's MMPA permit must support year round training and
cannot be reduced during certain months.
Comment 35: NRDC recommended that the Navy delay activities or
implement powerdowns during significant surface ducting conditions.
Response: Avoiding or reducing active sonar during strong surface
ducts for the purpose of mitigation would increase safety risks to
personnel, be impractical with regard to implementation of military
readiness activities, and result in unacceptable
[[Page 73038]]
impacts on readiness for the following reasons: The Navy must train in
the same manner as it will fight. Anti-submarine warfare can require a
significant amount of time to develop the ``tactical picture,'' or an
understanding of the battle space (e.g., area searched or unsearched,
identifying false contacts, and understanding the water conditions).
Training in surface ducting conditions is a critical component to
military readiness because sonar operators need to learn how sonar
transmissions are altered due to surface ducting, how submarines may
take advantage of them, and how to operate sonar effectively in this
environment. Furthermore, avoiding surface ducting would be impractical
to implement because ocean conditions contributing to surface ducting
change frequently, and surface ducts can be of varying duration.
Surface ducting can also lack uniformity and may or may not extend over
a large geographic area, making it difficult to determine where to
reduce power and for what periods.
Comment 36: NRDC recommended that the Navy plan their ship tracks
to avoid embayments and provide escape routes for marine mammals.
Response: As noted in the response to Comment 35 above, the Navy
does have a particular set of monitoring measures (intended to help
reduce the chance of a stranding) that would be applied if
circumstances are thought to make a stranding more likely (e.g., steep
bathymetry, constricted channels, etc.). However, there are no areas
with these features in aggregate included in the AFTT Study Area.
Comment 37: NRDC recommended that the Navy be required to implement
mitigation prescribed by state regulators, by the courts, by other
navies or research centers, or from past Navy actions.
Response: NMFS and the Navy have worked together on developing a
comprehensive suite of mitigation measures to reduce the impacts from
Navy training and testing activities on marine mammal species or stocks
and their habitat. During the process of developing mitigation
measures, NMFS and the Navy considered all potentially applicable
mitigation measures. NMFS has determined that the Navy's proposed
mitigation measures, along with the Planning Awareness Areas, Stranding
Response Plan, and Adaptive Management are adequate means of effecting
the least practicable adverse impacts on marine mammal species or
stocks and their habitat, paying particular attention to rookeries,
mating grounds, and areas of similar significance, while also
considering personnel safety, practicality of implementation, and
impact on the effectiveness of the military readiness activity. The
justification for this conclusion is discussed in the Mitigation
Conclusions section of the proposed rule (78 FR 7050, January 31, 2013;
page 7098).
Acoustic Thresholds
Comment 38: The Commission recommended that NMFS require the Navy
to adjust all acoustic and explosive thresholds for low-, mid-, and
high-frequency cetaceans by the appropriate amplitude factor (e.g.,
16.5 or 19.4 dB), if the Type II weighting functions from Figure 6 of
Finneran and Jenkins (2012) are to be used.
Response: The acoustic and explosive thresholds were adjusted based
on weighting the exposures from the original research from which the
thresholds were derived with the Type II weighing functions. The
weighted threshold is not derived by a simple amplitude shift.
The high-frequency cetacean onset TTS threshold is based on the
onset-TTS threshold derived from data in Lucke et al. (2009) for
impulsive exposures. This threshold was subsequently adjusted in
Finneran and Jenkins (2012) to reflect Type II high-frequency cetacean
weighting. Therefore, a simple 19.4 dB adjustment to the thresholds
presented in Southall et al. (2007) is not appropriate.
At the time the acoustic criteria and thresholds were developed, no
direct measurements of TTS due to non-impulsive sound exposures were
available for any high-frequency cetacean; therefore, the relationship
between onset-TTS sound exposure level (SEL)-based thresholds (Type II
weighted) for mid-frequency cetaceans exposed to impulsive and non-
impulsive sounds (beluga data) was used to derive the onset-TTS
threshold for high-frequency cetaceans exposed to non-impulsive sounds
(6-dB difference). The derived high-frequency cetacean non-impulsive
onset TTS threshold is consistent with data recently published by
Kastelein, et al. (2012) on TTS measured after exposing a harbor
porpoise to non-impulsive sounds.
Comment 39: The Commission requested an explanation of why data
from Kastak et al. (2005) was used as the basis for explosive
thresholds in pinnipeds and for the extrapolation process and factors
used as the basis for associated TTS thresholds.
Response: The same offset between impulsive and non-impulsive TTS
found for the only species where both types of sound were tested
(beluga) was used to convert the Kastak et al. (2005) data (which used
non-impulsive tones) to an impulsive threshold. This method is
explained in Finneran and Jenkins (2012) and Southall et al. (2007).
Comment 40: The Commission recommended that NMFS require the Navy
to provide the predicted average and maximum ranges for all impact
criteria (behavioral response, TTS, PTS, onset slight lung injury,
onset slight gastrointestinal injury, and onset mortality), all
activities, and all functional hearing groups.
Response: The Navy discusses range to effects in sections
3.4.3.1.8.1 and 3.4.3.1.9.1 of the AFTT FEIS/OEIS. The active acoustic
tables in section 3.4.3.1.8.1 illustrate the ranges to PTS, TTS, and
behavioral response. The active acoustic tables for PTS and TTS show
ranges for all functional hearing groups and the tables for behavioral
response show ranges for low-, mid-, and high-frequency cetaceans. The
active acoustic source class bins used to assess range to effects
represent some of the most powerful sonar sources and are often the
dominant source in an activity. The explosives table in section
3.4.3.1.9.1 illustrates the range to effects for onset mortality, onset
slight lung injury, onset slight gastrointestinal tract injury, PTS,
TTS, and behavioral response. The explosives table shows ranges for all
functional hearing groups. The source class bins used for explosives
range from the smallest to largest amount of net explosive weight.
These ranges represent conservative estimates (i.e., longer ranges)
based on assuming all impulses are 1-second in duration. In fact, most
impulses are much shorter and contain less energy. Therefore, these
ranges provide realistic maximum distances over which the specific
effects would be possible.
NMFS believes that these representative sources provide adequate
information to analyze potential effects on marine mammals. Because the
Navy conducts training and testing in a variety of environments having
variable acoustic propagation conditions, variations in acoustic
propagation conditions are considered in the Navy's acoustic modeling
and the quantitative analysis of acoustic impacts. Average ranges to
effect are provided in the AFTT FEIS/OEIS to show the reader typical
zones of impact around representative sources.
Comment 41: One commenter suggested, based on Kastelein et al.
(2012), that using SEL may sometimes underestimate the amount of TTS
experienced by a marine mammal.
Response: The basic assumption of using the SEL metric with TTS
[[Page 73039]]
thresholds is that the equal energy hypothesis (EEH) holds true in all
situations (i.e., if the SELs of two sources are similar, a sound from
a lower level source with a longer exposure duration may have similar
risks to a sound from a higher level source with a shorter exposure
duration). It is known from marine mammal and terrestrial mammal data
that this is not always the case, especially in situations of long
exposure periods with lower sound pressure levels. However, the EEH
also does not account for any possible recovery between intermittent
exposures and that non-impulsive, intermittent sources typically
require higher SELs to induce TTS compared to continuous exposures of
the same duration (Mooney et al., 2009; Finneran et al., 2010).
Additionally, Kastelein et al. (2012b) expose animals to continuous
durations of 7.5 minutes and longer, which do not necessarily reflect
exposure durations expected for the majority of Navy sources.
Comment 42: One commenter claimed that a statement in the proposed
rule suggested that NMFS believes that data from bottlenose dolphins
and beluga whales represent the full diversity of mid-frequency
cetaceans.
Response: The commenter is referring to a paper by Finneran and
Jenkins (2012) titled ``Criteria and thresholds for U.S. Navy acoustic
and explosive effects analysis.'' The authors do not claim that
bottlenose dolphins and belugas encompass the full diversity of mid-
frequency odontocetes. Rather, they state that these two species are
diverse. Because both species showed similar TTS thresholds, and
because TTS data has not been collected for other mid-frequency
cetaceans, the TTS thresholds for bottlenose dolphins and belugas were
applied to all mid-frequency cetaceans.
Comment 43: One commenter suggested that low-frequency cetaceans
should be split into two groups because the blue and fin whales (and
possibly sei whales) are more low-frequency specialists than others.
Response: NMFS does not plan on splitting low-frequency cetaceans
into two groups. Although there is some variation among the 13 species
of marine mammals identified in the proposed rule as ``low frequency''
cetaceans, these species all fall within the ``low frequency''
functional hearing group identified by Southall et al. (2007) where
functional hearing is estimated to occur between approximately 7 Hz and
22 kHz.
Comment 44: One commenter referred specifically to the criteria and
thresholds used for TTS as described in a paper by Finneran and Jenkins
(2012) ``Criteria and Thresholds for Navy Acoustic Effects Analysis
Technical Report.'' The commenter believes that scientific literature
is at odds with the conclusions made in the Navy document and referred
to the following quote on page 18 of the technical report, ``This means
the (Type I) weighted exposure SEL for harbor seals under water is 183
dB re 1 [mu]Pa\2\[middot]s.'' However, Kastelein et al. (2012a) note
for harbor seals that ``[while] TTS onset (6 dB) is predicted to occur
at 183 dB re 1 [mu]Pa\2\[middot]s . . . [i]n the present study,
statistically significant TTS, at ca. 2.5 dB, began to occur at SELs of
~170 [136 dB SPL, 60 min.] and 178 dB re 1 [mu]Pa\2\[middot]s [148 dB
SPL, 15 min.], but actual TTS onset is probably at lower SELs.'' The
Kastelein et al. (2012a) study used two young (4-5 yr. old) female
harbor seals, whereas the 183 dB figure originates from a study (Kastak
et al. 2005) using one male that was 14 years old. Kastelein et al.
(2012a) found that even for the same seal, ``thresholds changed
[hearing became slightly less sensitive (3 dB) for 4 kHz test signals
and slightly more sensitive (2 dB) for 5.7 kHz test signals] over time
in the control sessions.'' The commenter claims the authors caution
that ``[m]odeling TTS from exposure SPLs and duration (as done by
Finneran et al. 2010) would require more data points, e.g., at lower
and higher exposure SPLs, to find the SPL and duration thresholds at
which TTS starts. It would be risky to fit a formula to the 14 SEL data
points found in the present study because the TTS results of the two
seals differ, and because this study shows that harbor seals' TTSs may
reach asymptote after certain exposure durations.'' The highest TTS in
the Kastelein et al. (2012a) study was 10 dB produced by 148 dB re 1
[mu]Pa at 120 and 240 min. exposures. The authors also stressed that
the TTS may have an ecological impact, ``. . . reduc[ing] the
audibility of ecologically and socially important sounds for seals. For
example, a TTS of 6 dB would halve the distance at which the seal
suffering that TTS would be able to detect another seal, a vociferous
fish, or a predator acoustically . . .''
Response: There are some distinct differences between the Kastelein
et al. 2012a study and Kastak et al. 2005, from which the current
pinniped TTS onset criterion was derived, including differences
associated with the sex and age of individuals tested, different
background noise levels, and differences in experimental procedure, as
well as different center frequency of exposure stimuli. It should be
noted that a threshold shift of 6 dB is considered the minimum
threshold shift clearly larger than any day-to-day or session-to-
session variation in a subject's normal hearing ability (Schlundt et
al. 2000; Finneran et al. 2000; Finneran et al. 2002). Southall et al.
2007 also defined TTS onset as a 6 dB shift in threshold. Similarly,
for humans, NIOSH (1998) regards the range of audiometric testing
variability to be approximately 5 dB. Additionally, despite Kastelein
et al. 2012a indicating possible ecological impacts associated with
TTS, they also say ``Recovery from small TTSs (up to 10 dB), such as
those caused by the sound exposures in the present study, is very fast
(within 60 min). Reduced hearing for such a short period probably has
little effect on the total foraging period of a seal, as long as TTS
occurs infrequently.''
It should also be noted that the Navy's acoustic analysis indicated
that predicted TTS in harbor seals was typically caused by higher sound
pressure levels (greater than 160 dB re 1[mu]Pa) over much shorter
total durations (on the order of a few seconds) than the exposure
regime used by Kastelein et al. (2012a). Therefore, the most
appropriate dataset of Kastelein et al. (2012a) to derive a TTS
threshold for harbor seals that is relevant to the way Navy sound
sources are used is the dataset that uses the highest exposure level
(i.e., 148 dB re 1[mu]Pa). According to Figure 9 of Kastelein et al.
(2012a) a 6-dB hearing threshold shift (i.e., a reliably detectable
TTS) would occur at a sound exposure level of approximately 182-183 dB
re 1[mu]Pa\2\[middot]s. Therefore, the Kastelein et al. (2012a) results
agree with the harbor seal TTS-inducing sound levels found by Kastak et
al. (2005) and the phocid seal TTS thresholds currently used by the
Navy in its acoustic analysis as described in Finneran and Jenkins
(2012).
Comment 45: One commenter referred specifically to the criteria and
thresholds used for behavioral effects as described in a paper by
Finneran and Jenkins (2012) ``Criteria and Thresholds for Navy Acoustic
Effects Analysis Technical Report.'' The commenter referred to the
following quote on page 22 of the technical report, ``The BRF
[Behavioral Response Function] relies on the assumption that sound
poses a negligible risk to marine mammals if they are exposed to SPL
below a certain ``basement'' value.'' The commenter referred to the
basement value of 120 dB, but claims that the reasoning and literature
interpretation behind the basement value is weak. The commenter then
provided NMFS with examples
[[Page 73040]]
from other studies in support of their argument. For example, they
referred to a study by Miller et al. (2012) involving controlled
exposures of naval sonar to killer whales, pilot whales, and sperm
whales. They scored responses based on behavioral severity scores of 1-
3 (not likely to influence vital rates; 4-6 (could affect vital rates),
to 7-9 (likely to influence vital rates). In 83% of LFAS (1-2 kHz)
exposure sessions, the response was at a maximum severity of 4 or
greater (could or likely to affect vital rates). Behavioral severity
scores of 5, 6, and 7 occurred with RLs of just 90-99 dB in killer
whales. Since many responses occurred at RLs below 120 dB, Miller et
al. (2012) postulate that killer whales may be particularly sensitive
``. . . with some groups responding strongly to sonar at received SPLs
just loud enough to be audible.'' The commenter claims that, in sperm
whales, behavioral severity scores of 4 and 6 happened at RLs of 120-
129 dB. Miller et al. (2012) note that ``. . . there is little
indication in our results of a dose-response pattern in which higher
severity changes are less common at lower received levels and more
common at higher received levels. Instead, we scored behavioral
responses to have occurred across a wide range of received levels.
Seven scored responses to sonar started at received SPLs of < 110 dB
re: 1 [mu]Pa''. They add that ``. . . though there was an overall
tendency for increased risk of a severe behavioral response above 120
to 130 dB re: 1 [mu]Pa received SPLmax, our results do imply that any
signal audible to the animal can represent some risk of a behavioral
response at any severity level between 0 and 7.'' LFAS (1-2 kHz)
exposure resulted in both a greater number and more severe scored
responses than for MFAS (6-7 kHz), despite the behavioral and
electrophysiological audiograms of 3 killer whales showing 10-40 dB
less sensitivity at 1-2 kHz than 6-7 kHz. Taxonomically similar species
also didn't react more similarly to naval sonar, leading Miller et al.
(2012) to caution that ``. . . great care [must be applied] during the
extrapolation of results from experimental studies on a particular
species to other closely related species.''
Response: Behavioral responses can be complex and highly variable
and may be influenced strongly by the context of exposure (e.g., sound
source within a close proximity of a few kilometers) and exposure
history of the individual, among several of other factors, including
distance from the source, as has been discussed by Southall et al.
(2007), Southall et al. (2012), and Ellison et al. (2011), among
others. These responses were observed in animals that were being
followed and approached by multiple ships, including the one with the
sound source. However, no control was conducted that measured the
response of animals to the presence of multiple ships without a sonar
source. Killer whales in particular have demonstrated avoidance
behavioral and other severe behavioral responses to being surrounded by
multiple vessels (e.g. Erbe 2002, Kruse 1991, and Noren et al. 2009).
There are several advantages associated with playback studies, like
Miller et al. 2012 (i.e., highly controlled exposure, baseline
behavioral data before exposure is available, etc.). However, an
important consideration is that these situations may not always
accurately reflect how an individual would behaviorally respond to an
actual sound source that is often either much further away at
comparable received levels or whose movement is independent from an
individual's movement (i.e., not intentionally approaching an
individual). For example, DeRuiter et al. 2013 recently observed that
beaked whales (considered a particularly sensitive species) exposed to
playbacks of U.S. tactical mid-frequency sonar from 89 to 127 dB at
close distances responded notably (i.e., alter dive patterns), while
individuals did not behaviorally respond when exposed to the similar
received levels from actual U.S. tactical mid-frequency sonar operated
at much further distances. Miller et al. 2012 even points out that
``the approach of the vessel from a starting distance of 6 to 8 km
probably led to a more intense exposure than would be typical for
actual exercises, where the motion of sonar vessels is independent of
whale location. All of these factors make the experiments a realistic
though possibly worse than normal scenario for sonar exposures from
real navy activities.'' Similarly, we addressed Tyack et al. (2011) in
the proposed rule (78 FR 7050, January 31, 2013), which indicates that
beaked whales responded to mid-frequency signals at levels below 140
dB. In summary, a greater sample size is needed before robust and
definitive conclusions can be drawn.
Comment 46: One commenter suggested that NMFS is inconsistent in
applying behavioral response data from a few individuals to all mid-
frequency cetaceans, but not applying behavioral response data from
harbor porpoises to all high-frequency cetaceans. Another commenter
further suggested that instead of distinguishing sensitive species and
identifying separate thresholds, NMFS should instead include the data
from the more sensitive species into the general threshold, thus
lowering it. Last, one commenter suggests that the 140-dB threshold for
beaked whales is not low enough because Tyack et al., 2011 shows that
some beaked whales are taken below 140 dB.
Response: NMFS's approach is consistent and appropriate for
sensitive species. NMFS believes that the behavioral response data used
to inform the behavioral response curve is the best data to generally
predict behavioral responses across odontocetes. However, two
exceptions to the use of the general behavioral response curve, for
particularly sensitive species, have been established based on the best
available science. A lower behavioral response threshold of 120 dB SPL
is used for harbor porpoises because data suggest that this particular
species is likely sensitive to a wide range of anthropogenic sounds at
lower received levels, at least for initial exposures. There are no
data to indicate whether other or all high-frequency cetaceans are as
sensitive to anthropogenic sound as harbor porpoises are and therefore
the general odontocete curve is applied to other high-frequency
species. Similarly, beaked whales are considered particularly sensitive
both because of their involvement in several strandings associated with
MFAS exercises in certain circumstances and because of additional newer
information showing certain behavioral responses at lower levels (Tyack
et al., 2011) and therefore NMFS and the Navy have utilized a lower
behavioral response threshold of 140 dB.
Regarding the suggestion that the data from Tyack et al., 2011
support the use of a behavioral threshold below 140 dB, NMFS disagrees.
While Tyack et al., 2011 does report tagged whales ceasing clicking
when exposed to levels slightly below 140dB, it also reports that some
beaked whales exposed above 140dB did not stop clicking, and further
asserts that ``our results support a similar criterion of about 140dB
SPL for beaked whale exposure to mid-frequency sounds.'' More
importantly, as noted above, DeRuiter et al. 2013 recently reported on
the importance of context (for example the distance of a sound source
from the animal) in predicting behavioral responses as supported by
observations that beaked whales exposed to playbacks of U.S. tactical
mid-frequency sonar (such as those used in Tyack et al., 2011) from 89
to 127 dB at close distances responded notably (i.e., alter dive
patterns), while
[[Page 73041]]
individuals did not behaviorally respond when exposed to the similar
received levels from actual U.S. tactical mid-frequency sonar operated
at much further distances.
Behavioral responses of species to sound should not be confused
with a particular functional hearing group's perception of loudness at
specific frequencies. Behavioral responses can be highly variable and
depend on a multitude of species-specific factors (among other factors,
context, etc.), while hearing abilities are based on anatomy and
physiology which is more likely to be conserved across similar species
making extrapolations of auditory abilities more appropriate.
Comment 47: One commenter cited Melcon et al. 2012 to suggest that
behavioral responses in marine mammals could occur below 120 dB (NMFS'
acoustic threshold for Level B harassment from non-impulse sources).
Response: First, it is important to note that not all marine mammal
behavioral responses rise to the level of a ``take'' as considered
under section 101(a)(5)(A) of the MMPA. NMFS' analysis of the Navy's
activities does not state that marine mammals will not respond
behaviorally to sounds below 120 dB; rather, the 120 dB level is taken
as the estimate received level (RL) below which the risk of significant
change in a biologically important behavior approaches zero for the
risk assessment for sonar and other active acoustic sources. As stated
in the proposed rule, the studies that inform the basement value of 120
dB are from data gathered in the field and related to several types of
sound sources (of varying similarity to MFAS/HFAS). These sound sources
include: vessel noise, drilling and machinery playback, low-frequency
M-sequences (sine wave with multiple phase reversals) playback,
tactical low-frequency active sonar playback, drill ships, Acoustic
Thermometry of Ocean Climate (ATOC) source, and non-pulse playbacks.
These studies generally indicate no (or very limited) responses to
received levels in the 90 to 120 dB range and an increasing likelihood
of avoidance and other behavioral effects in the 120 to 160 dB range.
It is important to note that contextual variables play a very important
role in the reported responses and the severity of effects are not
linear when compared to received level. Melcon et al. (2012) also
reported that ``probability of D calls given MA sonar decreased
significantly with increasing received level'' and decreases seemed to
start at levels around 120 dB. Additionally, whales were found to start
vocalizing again once sonar ceased. Melcon et al.'s (2012) findings do
not necessarily apply to every low-frequency cetacean in every scenario
and results should be considered merely beyond the application to the
BRF (i.e., within overall analysis) to more accurately determine the
potential consequences of decreased feeding calls in various scenarios
with overlapping Navy MFA exercises (e.g., in Melcon et al., 2012 study
there was an overlap of 9 percent of the total hours analyzed where MFA
sonar was detected).
Comment 48: One commenter pointed out the increases in a beluga
whale's average heart rate during acoustic playbacks (Lyamin et al.,
2011).
Response: The commenter referenced this paper in the context of
acoustic criteria and thresholds for behavioral effects. It is
important to note that this study was done on a beluga whale in
captivity, captured two months prior to the experiment, and constrained
to a stretcher. In natural circumstances (i.e., the wild), the animal
would be able to move away from the sound source. Contextual variables
such as distance, among numerous other factors, play a large role in
determining behavioral effects to marine mammals from acoustic sources.
This study is difficult to directly apply to the anticipated behavioral
effects of the Navy's impulsive and non-impulsive sound sources on
marine mammals because there are some distinct differences between the
sound source used in this study and Navy sources. For one, the
frequency of the sound source in the Lyamin et al. (2011) study ranged
from 19 to 108 kHz (trying to test effects in range of best hearing),
which is outside the frequency range of the majority of Navy sonar
hours. Additionally, exposures that led to a response in this study
were of 1-minute continuous duration, which again does not mimic
exposure durations for the majority of Navy sources.
Comment 49: One commenter believes that certain studies are at odds
with the conclusions made by the Navy and NMFS and referred
specifically to the criteria and thresholds used for behavioral effects
as described in a paper by Finneran and Jenkins (2012) ``Criteria and
Thresholds for Navy Acoustic Effects Analysis Technical Report.'' The
commenter referred to the following quote on page 24 of the technical
report, ``an (unweighted) SPL of 120 dB re 1[mu]Pa is used for harbor
porpoises as a threshold to predict behavioral disturbance. In support
of their position, the commenter referred to text from a study by
Kastelein et al., (2012c),''[F]or 1-2 kHz sweeps without harmonics, a
50% startle response rate occurred at mean RLs of 133 dB re 1 [mu]Pa;
for 1-2 kHz sweeps with strong harmonics at 99 dB re 1 [mu]Pa; for 6-7
kHz sweeps without harmonics at 101 dB re 1 [mu]Pa.'' Thus, according
to the commenter, the presence of harmonics in sonar signals increases
their detectability by harbor porpoises. Moreover, the startle response
rate increased with increasing mean RL. This study and others show that
there is no clear-cut relationship between the startle response and
hearing threshold. To cause no startle response, single emissions (once
every 3 min) had to be below a mean RL of 112 dB for 1-2 kHz sweeps
without harmonics, below a mean RL of 80 dB for the same sweeps with
harmonics, and below a mean RL of 83 dB for 6-7 kHz sweeps without
harmonics (Kastelein et al., 2012c). Harmonics can be reduced by
lowering sonar signals' source levels. Harmonics can also be perceived
to be even louder than the fundamental frequencies of sonars and
therefore could influence harbor porpoise behavior more (Kastelein et
al., 2012c).
Response: All harbor porpoises exposed to (unweighted) sound
pressure levels equal to or greater than 120 dB are considered
behaviorally harassed. Since this metric is unweighted, the entire
frequency content of the signal (including potential harmonics) are
considered when comparing the received sound level with the behavioral
threshold. Behavioral responses can be variable, with a number of
factors affecting the response, including the harmonics associated with
a sound source, as demonstrated in Kastelein et al., 2012c. The
presence of harmonics in the 1-2 kHz sweep had two related effects: (1)
they increased the frequency range of the tonal (made it more high
frequency); and therefore (2) they made the overall spectrum more
broadband, with energy over 90 dB re 1 [micro]Pa from about 1-11 kHz,
rather than the narrowband energy of the sweeps without harmonics
(Kastelein et al., 2012). However, as Kastelein points out, ``both the
spectrum and the received level of an underwater noise appear to
determine the effect the sound has..'', and as harmonics are related to
the intensity of the sound, in most cases harmonics will not be
perceived by an animal unless the intensity of the sound is already
well over background levels. In addition, Kastelein et al. (2012)
define a startle response as a ``short-latency defensive response that
protects animals in the brief period (up to a few 100 ms) before
cognitive evaluation of a situation can take place to allow an adaptive
response'', and further states
[[Page 73042]]
``After about one strong tail movement, the animal's behavior returned
to normal. The animal did not avoid the area near the transducer during
sessions any more than usual.'' Therefore, this startle response did
not indicate a behavioral disturbance. Furthermore, these sounds were
below true ambient noise levels (as would be found outside of an
artificially quiet pool) and are not likely to be produced at those
levels outside of an artificial environment (e.g., tonals with
harmonics would be at received levels far above the conservative 120 dB
level used by NMFS and the Navy).
Southall et al. 2007 indicate a startle response is ``a brief,
transient event [that] is unlikely to persist long enough to constitute
significant disturbance.'' The 120 dB (unweighted) behavioral threshold
used for harbor porpoises is associated with Level B harassment under
the MMPA. Thus, the mere presence of a startle response, without any
further information on whether an animal perceives and behaviorally
responds to a sound as a threat, is not considered a behavioral
response that rises to the level of behavioral harassment.
Comment 50: One commenter referred specifically to the criteria and
thresholds used for TTS as described in a paper by Finneran and Jenkins
(2012) ``Criteria and Thresholds for Navy Acoustic Effects Analysis
Technical Report.'' The commenter referred to the following quote on
page 20 of the technical report, ``Since no studies have been designed
to intentionally induce PTS in marine mammals, onset-PTS levels for
marine mammals must be estimated using available information'' . . .
``Data from Ward et al. (1958) reveal a linear relationship between TTS
and SEL with growth rates of 1.5 to 1.6 dB TTS per dB increase in SEL.
This value for the TTS growth rate is larger than those experimentally
measured in a dolphin exposed to 3 and 20 kHz tones (Finneran and
Schlundt, 2010), and so appears to be a protective value to use for
cetaceans.'' The commenter then cites the following studies in support
of their belief that recent literature is at odds with the conclusions
made by the Navy and NMFS. According to the commenter, Kastak et al.
(2008) and Reichmuth (2009) found that a harbor seal exposed to a
maximum received sound pressure of 184 dB re 1 [mu]Pa with a duration
of 60 s (SEL = 202 dB re 1 [mu]Pa2s) a second time, showed
an initial threshold shift in excess of 48 dB at 5.8 kHz, a half-octave
above the fatiguing tone (4.1 kHz pure tone). This occurred suddenly
with no warning, after ``a level of no measurable effect'', following
progressive gradual increases in noise exposure level, i.e. this was a
nonlinear response, in contrast to what is written above in the
``Criteria and Thresholds for U.S. Navy Acoustic and Explosive Effects
Analysis.'' A permanent threshold shift of 7 to 10 dB remained after
two years (Reichmuth 2009). Reichmuth notes that `` . . . tonal noise
exposures, not commonly studied in terrestrial models of hearing, may
be of particular concern with respect to residual auditory effects.''
Response: The commenter cites the TTS growth rate used for
cetaceans; however, the reported TTS growth rate for a pinniped was
used to develop the onset PTS threshold for all pinnipeds (including
harbor seals). The onset PTS threshold used in this analysis is lower
than the SEL reported in Kastak et al. (2008).
Comment 51: One commenter suggested that TTS should be considered a
form of injury.
Response: NMFS developed acoustic criteria that estimate at what
received level (when exposed to sonar or explosive detonations) TTS
(Level B harassment) would occur. A number of investigators have
measured TTS in marine mammals. These studies measured hearing
thresholds in trained marine mammals before and after exposure to
intense sound. For example, Ward (1997) suggested that TTS is within
the normal bounds of physiological variability and tolerance and does
not represent physical injury. In addition, Southall et al. (2007)
indicates that although PTS is a tissue injury, TTS is not because the
reduced hearing sensitivity following exposure to intense sound results
primarily from fatigue, not loss, of cochlear hair cells and supporting
structures, and is reversible. Accordingly, NMFS considers this to be a
form of Level B harassment rather than Level A harassment (injury).
NMFS is aware of recent studies by Kujawa and Liberman (2009) and Lin
et al. (2011). These studies found despite completely reversible
threshold shifts that leave cochlear sensory cells intact, large
threshold shifts could cause synaptic level changes and delayed
cochlear nerve degeneration in mice and guinea pigs, respectively. NMFS
notes that the high level of TTS that led to the synaptic changes shown
in these studies, is in the range of the high degree of TTS that
Southall et al. (2007) used to calculate PTS levels. It is not known
whether smaller levels of TTS would lead to similar changes. NMFS,
however, acknowledges the complexity of noise exposure on the nervous
system, and will re-examine this issue as more data become available.
Comment 52: With regards to the development of marine mammal
auditory weighting functions, one commenter believes that there is
insufficient recognition that at high enough amplitudes, the curves for
hearing impairment are quite flat across all frequencies (suggesting
that audiograms are irrelevant at these levels).
Response: The exposure levels where hearing impairment becomes flat
across broad auditory frequency ranges are typically associated with
high risks of permanent hearing loss and where the threshold of pain
occurs. Auditory weighting functions are being applied to levels where
the onset of TTS and PTS occur. Additionally, the peak pressure metric
criteria (part of dual criteria for most sound sources) does not take
weighting functions into consideration (i.e., this metric is
unweighted), which offers additional protection from exposure to sounds
that have the potential to have extremely high amplitudes.
Effects Analysis
Comment 53: One commenter stated that neither the Navy model nor
any other model should be used to estimate takes unless and until it
has been properly validated, which includes a reasonable correlation
with real world empirical observations.
Response: The Navy Acoustic Effects Model is currently undergoing
validation using real world empirical data. Predicted outputs of a
standard NAEMO modeling run are being compared with a model run using
in-situ data of marine mammal vocalization behavior, ship tracks, sound
speed profiles, wind speeds, and sonar transmissions during a Navy
exercise. Although validation is not yet complete, the Navy is required
to use the best available science for its analysis. The Navy Acoustic
Effects Model is considered the best available given that it
incorporates various recommendations made by the Center for Independent
Experts review of previous models as well as the latest literature on
sound propagation and animal densities.
Comment 54: One commenter states that mortalities are currently
being grossly underestimated by the Navy.
Response: NMFS disagrees. Several factors cause the Navy's acoustic
effects model to overestimate potential effects, including mortalities.
First, the onset mortality criterion is based on 1 percent of the
animals receiving an injury that would not be recoverable and lead to
[[Page 73043]]
mortality; therefore, many animals that are predicted to suffer
mortality under this analysis may actually recover from their injuries.
Second, the metric used for the threshold of mortality (i.e., acoustic
mass) is based on the animal's mass. The smaller the animal, the more
susceptible that individual is to these effects. Under this analysis,
all individuals of a given species are assigned the weight of that
species' newborn calf or pup. Since many individuals in a population
are obviously larger than a calf, the acoustic model overestimates the
number of animals that may suffer mortality. Third, many explosions
from ordnances such as bombs and missiles actually occur upon impact
with above-water targets; however, for this analysis, these sources
were modeled as exploding at 1 m below the surface. This overestimates
the amount of explosive and acoustic energy entering the water and;
therefore, overestimates the effects on marine mammals.
The Navy also estimated lethal take of large whales from vessel
strikes and mortalities of beaked whales from strandings. To determine
the appropriate number of MMPA incidental takes from vessel strikes,
the Navy assessed the probability of Navy vessels hitting individuals
of different species of large whales that occur in the AFTT Study Area
incidental to specified training and testing activities. To do this,
the Navy considered unpublished ship strike data compiled and provided
by NMFS, Northeast Science Center and Southeast Science Center (1995-
2012) and information in the LOA application regarding trends in the
amount of vessel traffic related the their training and testing
activities in the AFTT Study Area. During this time period, there were
19 reported ship strikes; therefore, the probability of a collision
between a Navy vessel and a whale is 1.055 (19 strikes/18 years). This
value was used as the rate parameter to calculate a series of Poisson
probabilities (a Poisson distribution is often used to describe random
occurrences when the probability of an occurrence is small (e.g., count
data such a cetacean sighting data, or in this case strike data, are
often described as a Poisson or over-dispersed Poisson distribution).
The results of this analysis are provided in section 6.1.9.2 in the
Navy's LOA application for AFTT. The Navy is requesting no more than 10
large whale injuries or mortalities over 5 years (no more than three
large whale mortalities in a given year) due to vessel strike during
training activities and no more than one large whale injury or
mortality over 5 years due to vessel strike during testing activities.
However, no more than three injuries or mortalities of any of the
following species would be authorized to occur in a given year between
both training and testing activities (two injuries or mortalities from
training and one injury or mortality from testing): blue whale, fin
whale, humpback whale, sei whale, and sperm whale. NMFS and the Navy do
not anticipate this number of injuries or mortalities to occur due to
vessel strikes; however, because of previously reported ship stikes and
the need to authorize this form of taking in the unlikely event that it
occurs, NMFS authorizes the take of no more than 10 large whale
injuries or mortalities over 5 years (no more than three large whale
mortalities in a given year) due to vessel strike during training
activities and no more than one large whale injury or mortality over 5
years due to vessel strike during testing activities. This is
considered an overestimate because the analysis estimated that only one
whale may be struck per year and the Navy has only been involved in two
strikes, with no confirmed marine mammal deaths, over the last five
years.
The Navy has also requested the annual take, by mortality, of up to
10 beaked whales in any given year, and no more than 10 beaked whales
over the 5-year LOA period, incidental to training activities. NMFS and
the Navy do not anticipate any beaked whale strandings to occur;
however, because of a lack of scientific consensus regarding the causal
link between sonar and stranding events, NMFS cannot conclude with
certainty the degree to which mitigation measures would eliminate or
reduce the potential for serious injury or mortality. Therefore, NMFS
authorizes the take of 10 beaked whales, by mortality, over the 5-year
LOA period. This is considered an overestimate because mortalities are
not anticipated and have not previously been reported during the 40
years the Navy has conducted similar exercises in the AFTT Study Area.
Comment 55: The Commission requested information regarding how the
Navy determined takes that occur when multiple source types are used
simultaneously.
Response: The Navy treated events involving multiple source types
(e.g., acoustic vs. explosive) as separate events and did not sum the
sound exposure levels. In most cases, explosives and sonar are not used
during the same activities and therefore are unlikely to affect the
same animals over the same time period.
The Navy did sum energy for multiple exposures of similar source
types. For sonar, including use of multiple systems within any
scenario, energy is accumulated within the following four frequency
bands: low-frequency, mid-frequency, high-frequency, and very high-
frequency. After the energy has been summed within each frequency band,
the band with the greatest amount of energy is used to evaluate the
onset of PTS or TTS. For explosives, including use of multiple
explosives in a single scenario, energy is summed across the entire
frequency band. This process is detailed in a technical report titled
``The Determination of Acoustic Effects on Marine Mammals and Sea
Turtles'' on the AFTT EIS Web site (http://www.aftteis.com).
Comment 56: One commenter suggested that species population
estimates should be based on minimum population estimates.
Response: NMFS considered the best population estimates when
assessing impacts to marine mammal populations from Navy activities
because we believe these provided the most accurate estimate based on
the best available science.
Comment 57: One commenter claimed that the Navy's proposed
activities are likely to result in jeopardy of the continued existence
of ESA-listed species.
Response: Pursuant to section 7 of the Endangered Species Act, the
Navy consulted with NMFS on its proposed action and NMFS consulted
internally on the issuance of LOAs under section 101(a)(5)(A) of the
MMPA. The purpose of that consultation was to determine whether the
proposed action is likely to result in jeopardy of the continued
existence of a species. In the Biological Opinion, NMFS concluded that
the issuance of the rule and two LOAs are likely to adversely affect
but are not likely to jeopardize the continued existence of the
threatened and endangered species under NMFS' jurisdiction and are not
likely to result in the destruction or adverse modification of critical
habitat that has been designated for endangered or threatened species
in the AFTT Study Area. The Biological Opinion for this action is
available on NMFS' Web site (http://www.nmfs.noaa.gov/pr/permits/incidental.html#applications).
Comment 58: One commenter stated that the Navy's proposed
activities are not just ``incidental,'' but serious and potentially
catastrophic.
Response: In section 101(a)(5)(A) and (D) of the MMPA, incidental
is defined as an unintentional, but not unexpected, taking. In other
words, the Navy's activities are considered incidental because they may
result in the
[[Page 73044]]
unintentional taking of marine mammals. The term incidental does not
refer to the type or level of impacts that an activity may have on
marine mammals.
Comment 59: One commenter suggested that the authorized take
numbers should reflect the Navy's inability to mitigate for onset of
TTS during every activity.
Response: As discussed in the proposed rule (78 FR 7102-7103,
January 31, 2013), TTS is type of Level B harassment. In the Estimated
Take of Marine Mammal section, we quantify the effects that might occur
from the specific training and testing activities that the Navy
proposes in the AFTT Study Area, which includes the number of takes by
Level B harassment (behavioral harassment, acoustic masking and
communication impairment, and TTS). Through this rulemaking, NMFS has
authorized the Navy to take marine mammals by Level B harassment
incidental to Navy training and testing activities in the AFTT Study
Area. In order to issue an incidental take authorization (ITA), we must
set forth the ``permissible methods of taking pursuant to such
activity, and other means of effecting the least practical adverse
impact on such species or stock and its habitat, paying particular
attention to rookeries, mating grounds, and areas of similar
significance.'' We have determined that the mitigation measures
implemented under this rule reduce the potential impacts to marine
mammals from training and testing activities.
The Navy developed activity-specific mitigation zones based on the
Navy's acoustic propagation model. Each recommended mitigation zone is
intended to avoid or reduce the potential for onset of the lowest level
of injury, PTS, out to the predicted maximum range. Mitigating to the
predicted maximum range to PTS consequently also mitigates to the
predicted maximum range to onset mortality (1 percent mortality), onset
slight lung injury, and onset slight gastrointestinal tract injury,
since the maximum range to effects for these criteria are shorter than
for PTS. Furthermore, in most cases, the predicted maximum range to PTS
also covers the predicted average range to TTS. In some instances, the
Navy recommended mitigation zones that are larger or smaller than the
predicted maximum range to PTS based on the associated effectiveness
and operational assessments presented in section 5.3.2 of the AFTT
FEIS/OEIS. NMFS worked closely with the Navy in the development of the
recommendations and carefully considered them prior to adopting them in
this final rule. The mitigation zones contained in this final rule
represent the maximum area the Navy can effectively observe based on
the platform of observation, number of personnel that will be involved,
and the number and type of assets and resources available. As
mitigation zone sizes increase, the potential for reducing impacts
decreases. For instance, if a mitigation zone increases from 1,000 to
4,000 yd. (914 to 3,658 m), the area that must be observed increases
sixteen-fold. The mitigation measures contained in this final rule
balance the need to reduce potential impacts with the Navy's ability to
provide effective observations throughout a given mitigation zone.
Implementation of mitigation zones is most effective when the zone is
appropriately sized to be realistically observed. The Navy does not
have the resources to maintain additional Lookouts or observer
platforms that would be needed to effectively observe mitigation zones
of increased size.
Comment 60: One commenter cited Madsen et al. (2006) to suggest
that airgun use could cause whales to stop feeding.
Response: NMFS referenced Madsen et al. (2006) in the behavioral
disturbance (specifically, foraging) section of the proposed rule.
However, airguns used during Navy testing are small (up to 60 in\3\)
compared to the airgun arrays used in Madsen et al. (2006), which
ranged from 1,680 in\3\ to 2,590 in\3\. The results from Madsen et al.
(2006) cannot be directly tied to the expected impacts from the Navy's
limited use of small airguns during testing activities. The Navy will
only use airguns an average of five times per year. Furthermore, airgun
usage in the AFTT Study Area is a component of pierside integration
swimmer defense activities, which does not overlap with any major
marine mammal feeding areas.
Comment 61: One commenter referred to a quote in the discussion in
the proposed rule concerning behavior disturbance and harbor porpoises
that says ``. . . rapid habituation was noted in some but not all
studies'' and refers NMFS to a paper by Kastelein et al. (2012) that
hypothesized it is not always possible to differentiate between marine
mammal habituation of a sound and hearing impairment.
Response: We do not have a perfect understanding of marine mammal
behavioral responses, but we have sufficient information (based on
multiple MFA sonar-specific studies, marine mammal hearing/physiology/
anatomy, and an extensive body of studies that address impacts from
other anthropogenic sources) to be able to assess potential impacts and
design mitigation and monitoring measures to ensure that the Navy's
action will avoid injury and mortality whenever possible, have the
least practicable adverse impact on marine mammal species and stocks
and their habitat, and have a negligible impact on the affected species
and stocks.
In the Potential Effects of Specified Activities on Marine Mammals
section of the proposed rule (78 FR 7050; January 31, 2013; pages 7077-
7092), we included a qualitative discussion of the different ways that
Navy training and testing operations involving active sound sources may
potentially affect marine mammals, which was based on the MFA sonar-
specific studies and other studies addressing impacts from non-MFA
anthropogenic sources.
Comment 62: One commenter noted that the behavioral harassment
analysis (page 7034; Table 21 in the HSTT proposed rule and page 7114;
Table 22 in the AFTT proposed rule) shows that from 120-138 dB and 174-
198 dB, very few low-frequency and mid-frequency cetaceans are
behaviorally harassed. The commenter suggested that this is counter to
the literature and requests an explanation for why high-frequency
cetaceans are not included.
Response: The number of behavioral harassments is determined from
the behavioral risk function criteria. At the lower received levels the
probability is significantly decreased which results in lower numbers.
For the higher received levels, the distance to these levels is
relatively small, therefore encompassing a relatively small area. Since
only a small area is ensonified, there is less chance for exposure.
Additionally, at the higher receive levels it's possible an animal
could experience TTS, and if the animal has already been counted under
TTS it would not be reflected in the table. As depicted in table 3.4-12
of the AFTT FEIS/OEIS, the BRF table also applies to HF cetaceans.
To the commenter's last point, the table labeled ``Mid-frequency
cetaceans'' (Table 23) should actually be labeled ``Mid- and High
frequency cetaceans.'' There is one single behavioral harassment curve
applied to both mid-and high frequency cetaceans and Table 23 lists the
breakdown of takes for that curve.
Comment 63: Several commenters suggested that the Navy grossly
underestimates the effects of its activities on the marine environment
and that NMFS fails to consider longer
[[Page 73045]]
term effects or conduct a population level analysis.
Response: NMFS disagrees that impacts to marine mammals from the
Navy's training and testing activities are grossly underestimated. The
Navy's model uses the best available science to analyze impacts and
often overestimates the potential effects by considering the worst case
scenario. The Navy also analyzed the potential environmental impacts of
their activities, including on marine mammal populations, in the AFTT
FEIS/OEIS.
NMFS considers population level effects under our ``least
practicable adverse impact'' standard and also when making a negligible
impact determination. The Analysis and Negligible Impact Determination
section of this Final Rule explicitly addresses the effects of the 5-
year activity on populations, considering: when impacts occur in known
feeding or reproductive areas; the number of mortalities; the status of
the species; and other factors. Further, NMFS' duty under the ``least
practicable adverse impact'' standard is to design mitigation targeting
those impacts on individual marine mammals that are most likely to lead
to adverse population-level effects. These mitigation measures are
discussed in detail both in the Mitigation section of this final rule,
and also considered in the Negligible Impact Determination section.
Comment 64: Several commenters suggested that NMFS failed to
analyze the cumulative effects of the Navy's activities.
Response: Section 101(a)(5)(A) of the MMPA requires NMFS to make a
determination that the harassment incidental to a specified activity
will have a negligible impact on the affected species or stocks of
marine mammals, and will not result in an unmitigable adverse impact on
the availability of marine mammals for taking for subsistence uses.
Neither the MMPA nor NMFS' implementing regulations specify how to
consider other activities and their impacts on the same populations.
However, consistent with the 1989 preamble for NMFS' implementing
regulations (54 FR 40338, September 29, 1989), the impacts from other
past and ongoing anthropogenic activities are incorporated into the
negligible impact analysis via their impacts on the environmental
baseline (e.g., as reflected in the density/distribution and status of
the species, population size and growth rate, and ambient noise).
In addition, cumulative effects are addressed in the Chapter 4 of
the AFTT FEIS/OEIS and NMFS' Biological Opinion for this action. These
documents provided NMFS with information regarding other activities in
the action area that affect marine mammals, an analysis of cumulative
impacts, and other information relevant to the determination made under
the MMPA.
Comment 65: One commenter claimed that NMFS' negligible impact
determination is not accurate because the Navy's activities will result
in hearing loss for 1,600 marine mammals and mortality of 130 marine
mammals.
Response: Based on our analysis of the effects of the specified
activity on marine mammals and their habitat, and dependent on the
implementation of mitigation and monitoring measures, we have found
that the total taking from Navy training and testing will have a
negligible impact on the affected species and stocks. First of all, the
negligible impact finding is made for each individual species and the
numbers the commenter cites are totals for all 42 species, i.e., the
numbers are not nearly that large for any individual species. Second,
in some cases, as described throughout the document, the estimated
takes by mortality and injury are not always expected to occur but
rather are authorized to ensure that the Navy is in compliance for the
maximum that could occur. Last, PTS is a reduction in hearing
sensitivity within a particular frequency band (which often occurs
naturally as animals age)--NMFS would not expect that complete hearing
loss would result from exposure to Navy activities, as it would require
an animal stay in very close proximity to a loud source for an extended
period of time. As a result, we have promulgated regulations for these
activities that prescribe the means of effecting the least practicable
adverse impact on marine mammal species or stocks and their habitat and
set forth requirements pertaining to the monitoring and reporting of
that taking.
Comment 66: One commenter requested a list of unexploded ordnances,
mitigation measures for unexploded ordnances, and the impacts on marine
mammals from unexploded ordnances.
Response: The AFTT FEIS/OEIS addresses the potential impacts from
the introduction of things like unexploded ordnance into the water
column. As stated in the previous response, the AFTT DEIS/OEIS was made
available to the public on May 11, 2012 and was referenced in our
notice of receipt (77 FR 60679, October 4, 2012) and proposed rule (78
FR 7050, January 31, 2013). In summary, and as included in the Marine
Mammal Habitat section of the proposed rule, chemical, physical, or
biological changes in sediment or water quality would not be
detectable. In the event of an ordnance failure, the energetic
materials it contained would remain mostly intact. The explosive
materials in failed ordnance items and metal components from training
and testing would leach slowly and would quickly disperse in the water
column. Unexploded ordnances are unlikely to affect marine mammals or
their habitat.
Comment 67: The Commission recommended that NMFS authorize the
total number of model-estimated Level A harassment and mortality takes
rather than reducing the estimated numbers of Level A harassment and
mortality takes based on the Navy's proposed post-model analysis.
Specifically, the Commission was concerned that the Navy did not
provide a basis for the assumption that animals would avoid repeated
sound exposure (including sensitive species) or that the implementation
of mitigation would prevent Level A harassment.
Response: The Navy's post-model assessment process was developed
using the best available science and in coordination with NMFS, and
appropriately accounts for mitigation and avoidance behavior. Relying
solely on the output of the Navy Acoustic Effects Model presents an
overestimate of acoustic impacts for higher order effects such as
injury or mortality for the following reasons:
(1) Sensitive species (i.e., beaked whales and harbor porpoises)
are modeled as if they would remain stationary and tolerate any very
close anthropogenic encounters, although these species are known to
avoid anthropogenic activity (see AFTT FEIS/OEIS Section 3.4.3.1.2.5
Behavioral Reactions).
(2) Implementation of mitigation (i.e., shut down zones) is not
currently modeled; however, the Navy has developed mitigation measures
in cooperation with NMFS that are considered effective at reducing
environmental impacts while being operationally feasible (see AFTT
FEIS/OEIS Chapter 5, Standard Operating Procedures, Mitigation, and
Monitoring).
(3) Animals are assumed to remain horizontally stationary in the
model and tolerate any disturbing or potentially injurious sound
exposure, although animals have been observed to avoid sound sources
with high source levels (see AFTT FEIS/OEIS Section 3.4.3.1.2.5
Behavioral Reactions).
(4) The model estimates the potential for mortality based on very
conservative criteria (see AFTT FEIS/OEIS Section
[[Page 73046]]
3.4.3.1.4.1, Mortality and Injury from Explosives). With the
implementation of proven mitigation and decades of historical
information from conducting training and testing in the Study Area, the
likelihood of mortality is very low.
The Navy has required that any ``incident'' (marine mammal
mortality or otherwise) be reported since the 1990s. In that time, only
four marine mammal mortalities have been reported in the AFTT and HSTT
study area from training and testing activities. While it is possible
that some mortalities may have gone undetected, it is highly unlikely
that they would reach the high level of Level A harassments and
mortalities as suggested by the raw model results.
The Navy's quantitative analysis of acoustic impacts is discussed
in AFTT FEIS/OEIS Section 3.4.3.1.5, Quantitative Analysis, as well as
in Section 6.1.5, Quantitative Analysis, in the Navy's LOA application.
Specifically, post-model analysis taking into account sensitive
species' avoidance of anthropogenic activity is discussed in AFTT FEIS/
OEIS Section 3.4.3.1.5.5, Marine Mammal Avoidance of Sound Exposures.
Background information discussing harbor porpoise and beaked whale
sensitivity to vessels and aircraft is discussed in AFTT FEIS/OEIS
Section 3.4.3.1.2.5, Behavioral Reactions. Reactions due to repeated
exposures to sound-producing activities are discussed in AFTT FEIS/OEIS
Section 3.4.3.1.2.6, Repeated Exposures.
The Navy's model-estimated effects (without consideration of
avoidance or mitigation) are provided in a technical report
(``Determination of Acoustic Effects on Marine Mammal and Sea
Turtles'') available at http://www.aftteis.com. In addition to the
information already contained within the AFTT FEIS/OEIS, and in
response to public comments, the Navy has prepared a Technical Report
which describes the process for the post-modeling analysis in further
detail. This report is available at http://www.aftteis.com.
Comment 68: The Commission raised concerns regarding the Navy's
approach to adjusting its take estimates based on both mitigation
effectiveness scores and g(0)--the probability that an animal on a
vessel's or aircraft's track line will be detected. Specifically, the
Commission questioned how the Navy determined the appropriate
adjustment factors because the information needed to judge mitigation
effectiveness has not been made available. The Commission also stated
that the Navy did not provide the criteria (i.e., the number and types
of surveillance platforms, number of lookouts, and sizes of the
respective zones) needed to elicit the three mitigation effectiveness
scores and pointed out that the simple detection of a marine mammal
does not guarantee that mitigation measures will be effective.
Response: The Navy Acoustic Effects Model currently does not have
the ability to account for mitigation or horizontal animal movement;
either as representative animal movements or as avoidance behavior (see
AFTT FEIS/OEIS Section 3.4.3.1.5.4, Model Assumptions and Limitations).
While the Navy will continue to incorporate best available science and
modeling methods into future versions of the Navy Acoustic Effects
Model, it was appropriate to perform post-model analysis to account for
mitigation and avoidance behavior not captured by the Navy Acoustic
Effects Model.
A summary of the current status of the Navy's Lookout effectiveness
study and why the data cannot be used in the analysis was added in
Section 5.3.1.2.4, Effectiveness Assessment for Lookouts, of the AFTT
FEIS/OEIS. Both NMFS and the Navy believe consideration of marine
mammal sightability and activity-specific mitigation effectiveness in
its quantitative analysis is appropriate in order to provide decision
makers a reasonable assessment of potential impacts under each
alternative. A comprehensive discussion of the Navy's quantitative
analysis of acoustic impacts, including the post-model analysis to
account for mitigation and avoidance, is presented in the Navy's LOA
application. The assignment of mitigation effectiveness scores and the
appropriateness of consideration of sightability using detection
probability, g(0), when assessing the mitigation in the quantitative
analysis of acoustic impacts is discussed in AFTT FEIS/OEIS Section
3.4.3.1.5.6, Implementing Mitigation to Reduce Sound Exposures.
Additionally, the activity category, mitigation zone size and number of
Lookouts is provided in AFTT FEIS/OEIS Tables 5.3-2 and 5.4-1. In
addition to the information already contained within the AFTT EIS/OEIS,
and in response to public comments, the Navy has prepared a Technical
Report which describes the process for the post-modeling analysis in
further detail. This report is available at http://www.aftteis.com.
NMFS believes that detection of a marine mammal within the Navy's
relatively small mitigation zones will help prevent animals from being
exposed to sounds levels that constitute Level A harassment (injury).
The Navy's relatively small mitigation zones help increase the
likelihood that an animal will be detected before incurring PTS.
Details on implementation of mitigation can be found in the annual
exercise reports provided to NMFS and briefed annually to NMFS and the
Commission. The annual exercise reports can be found at http://www.navymarinespeciesmonitoring.us/ and at http://www.nmfs.noaa/pr/permits/incidental.htm#applications. For more information on how
mitigation is implemented see AFTT EIS/OEIS Chapter 5.
Comment 69: The Commission further stated that the Navy's post-
model analysis approach is confusing because the Navy is inconsistent
in its use of the terms ``range to effects zone'' and ``mitigation
zone,'' which are not the same. More importantly, some of the
mitigation zones are smaller than the estimated range to effects zones.
Response: The terms ``range to effects zone'' and ``mitigation
zone'' are used appropriately in the discussion of mitigation in both
the Navy's LOA application and in AFTT FEIS/OEIS Section 5.3.2
(Mitigation Zone Procedural Measures). In summary, the range to effects
zone is the distance over which the specific effects would be expected,
and the mitigation zone is the distance that the Lookout will be
implementing mitigation within and is developed based on the range to
effects distance for injury (i.e. PTS).
In all cases except ship shock trials, the mitigation zones
encompass the ranges to PTS for the most sensitive marine mammal
functional hearing group (see AFTT FEIS/OEIS Table 5.3-2), which is
usually the high-frequency cetacean hearing group. Therefore, the
mitigation zones are even more protective for the remaining functional
hearing groups (i.e., low-frequency cetaceans, mid-frequency cetaceans,
and pinnipeds), and likely cover a larger portion of the potential
range to onset of TTS. The Navy believes that ranges to effect for PTS
that are based on spherical spreading best represent the typical range
to effects near a sonar source; therefore, the ranges to effects for
sonar presented in Table 11-1 of the Navy's LOA application have been
revised as shown in Table 5.3-2 of the AFTT FEIS/OEIS. The predicted
ranges to onset of PTS for a single ping are provided for each marine
mammal functional hearing group in Table 3.4-9 of the AFTT FEIS/OEIS.
The single ping range to onset of PTS for sonar in Sonar Bin MF1 (i.e.,
AN/SQS-53), the most powerful source bin analyzed, is no greater than
100 m for any marine mammal functional hearing group.
[[Page 73047]]
Furthermore, as discussed in Section 3.4.3.1.8.1 (Range to Effects) of
the AFTT FEIS/OEIS, there is little overlap of PTS footprints from
successive pings, indicating that in most cases, an animal predicted to
receive PTS would do so from a single exposure (i.e., ping). Additional
discussion regarding consideration of mitigation in the quantitative
analysis of sonar and other active acoustic sources is provided in AFTT
FEIS/OEIS Section 3.4.3.1.8.2, Avoidance Behavior and Mitigation
Measures as Applied to Sonar and Active Acoustic Sources.
Comment 70: The Commission noted that although the Navy states that
lookouts will not always be effective at avoiding impacts to all
species, it bases its g(0) estimates on seasoned researchers conducting
the associated surveys, not Navy lookouts whose observer effectiveness
has yet to be determined.
Response: A summary of the current status of the Navy's Lookout
effectiveness study and why the data cannot be used in the analysis has
been added in Section 5.3.1.2.4, Effectiveness Assessment for Lookouts,
of the AFTT FEIS/OEIS. NMFS believes that consideration of marine
mammal sightability and activity-specific mitigation effectiveness in
the Navy's quantitative analysis is appropriate in order to provide a
reasonable assessment of potential impacts under each alternative. A
comprehensive discussion of the Navy's quantitative analysis of
acoustic impacts, including the post-model analysis to account for
mitigation and avoidance, is presented in the Navy's LOA application.
Currently, the g(0) probabilities are the only quantitative measures
available for estimating mitigation effectiveness.
However, the differences between Navy training and testing events
and systematic line-transect marine mammal surveys suggest that the use
of g(0), as a sightability factor to quantitatively adjust model-
predicted effects based on mitigation, is likely to result in an
underestimate of the protection afforded by the implementation of
mitigation. For instance, mitigation zones for Navy training and
testing events are significantly smaller (typically less than 1,000 yd
radius) than the area typically searched during line-transect surveys,
which includes the maximum viewable distance out to the horizon. In
some cases, Navy events can involve more than one vessel or aircraft
(or both) operating in proximity to each other or otherwise covering
the same general area, potentially resulting in more observers looking
at the mitigation zone than the two primary observers used in marine
mammal surveys upon which g(0) is based. Furthermore, a systematic
marine mammal line-transect survey is designed to sample broad areas of
the ocean, and generally does not retrace the same area during a given
survey. In contrast, many Navy training and testing activities involve
area-focused events (e.g., anti-submarine warfare tracking exercise),
where participants are likely to remain in the same general area during
an event. In other cases, Navy training and testing activities are
stationary (i.e., pierside sonar testing or use of dipping sonar),
which allows Lookouts to focus on the same area throughout the
activity. Both of these circumstances result in a longer observation
period of a focused area with more opportunities for detecting marine
mammals than are offered by a systematic marine mammal line-transect
survey that only passes through an area once. Additional discussion
regarding the use of detection probability, g(0), in the consideration
of mitigation in the quantitative analysis is provided in AFTT FEIS/
OEIS Section 3.4.3.1.5.6, Implementing Mitigation to Reduce Sound
Exposures.
Comment 71: The Commission and others voiced concern that the
Navy's post-model analysis cannot account for the magnitude of
adjustment to take estimates from what was originally presented in the
draft AFTT EIS/OEIS to what was presented in the proposed rule (78 FR
7050, January 31, 2013) and that the public does not have enough
information to comment on this issue.
Response: A comprehensive discussion of the Navy's acoustic impact
analysis, including modeling and the post-model analysis was included
in section 6.1.5 of the Navy's LOA application, and is also discussed
in Section 3.4.3.1.5, Quantitative Analysis, of the AFTT FEIS/OEIS.
This information is sufficient to notify the public of the post-
modeling analysis and provide the public an opportunity to comment. In
addition to the information already contained within the AFTT FEIS/OEIS
and the Navy's LOA application, and in response to public comments, the
Navy prepared a Technical Report which describes the process for the
post-modeling analysis in further detail. This report is available at
http://www.aftteis.com. This report demonstrates that the differences
in predicted impacts due to the post-modeling analysis and the
corrections in modeling the proposed action made after publication of
the AFTT DEIS/OEIS were not substantial changes in the proposed action
that will significantly affect the environment in a manner not already
considered in the AFTT DEIS/OEIS.
Comment 72: One commenter included several criticisms of the
behavioral threshold used to assess impacts from airguns and pile-
driving, including that it is outdated and uses an inappropriate
metric.
Response: NMFS is committed to the use of the best available
science and, as noted in the Summary at the beginning of the Final
Rule, is in the process of updating and revising our acoustic
thresholds. As has always been our process, we will solicit public
input on revised draft thresholds before making any changes in the
acoustic thresholds that applicants are required to use. The process
for establishing new acoustic guidance is outlined on our Web site:
http://www.nmfs.noaa.gov/pr/acoustics/guidelines.htm. Until revised
criteria are finalized (after both public and peer-review), ensuring
the inclusion and appropriate interpretation of any newer information,
applicants should continue to use NMFS' current acoustic thresholds.
Vessel Strikes
Comment 73: The Commission recommended that NMFS require the Navy
to use its spatially and temporally dynamic simulation models to
estimate strike probabilities for specific activities.
Response: The Navy considered using a dynamic simulation model to
estimate strike probability. However, the Navy determined that the use
of historical data was a more appropriate way to analyze the potential
for strike. The Navy's strike probability analysis in the AFTT FEIS/
OEIS is based on data collected from historical use of vessels, in-
water devices, and military expended materials, and the likelihood that
these items may have the potential to strike an animal. This data
accounts for real-world variables over the course of many years and is
considered more accurate than model results.
Comment 74: NRDC recommended the application of ship-speed
restrictions (10 knots) for Navy support vessels and/or other vessels
while transiting high-value habitat for baleen whales and endangered
species, or other areas of biological significance and/or shipping
lanes (e.g., the Santa Barbara Channel).
Response: The Navy typically chooses to run vessels at slower
speeds for efficiency and to conserve gas; however, some exercises,
tests, or military needs require the Navy to exceed 10-15 knots. When
transiting through North Atlantic right whale calving and foraging
habitat, vessels will implement speed
[[Page 73048]]
reductions: (1) after they observe a right whale; (2) if they are
within 5 nm (9 km) of a sighting reported within the past 12 hours
(southeast) or week (northeast); or (3) when operating at night or
during periods of poor visibility. The Navy will also be notified when
Dynamic Management Areas are triggered around aggregations of right
whales and consider whether to avoid the area or transit through at a
slow, safe speed.
General Opposition
Comment 75: Multiple commenters stated that the NMFS proposal that
allows only permit applicants and permit holders to file an
administrative appeal of a permit decision is unacceptable.
Response: NMFS is not aware of any such proposal.
Comment 76: Multiple commenters expressed concern that, given the
state of the oceans at this time, allowing the Navy's testing and
training seems to go beyond a ``negligible impact.''
Response: The MMPA implementing regulations found at 50 CFR 216.103
define ``negligible impact'' as ``an impact resulting from the
specified activity that cannot be reasonably expected to, and is not
reasonably likely to adversely affect the species or stock through
effects on annual rates of recruitment or survival.'' Therefore, the
context under which NMFS makes a negligible impact determination is
confined by regulation to the likely effects of the specified activity
(in this case, Navy training and testing) on marine mammals and their
habitat.
Comment 77: Several commenters expressed general opposition to Navy
activities and NMFS' issuance of an MMPA authorization.
Response: NMFS appreciates the commenters' concern for the marine
environment. However, the MMPA directs NMFS to issue an incidental take
authorization if certain findings can be made. NMFS has determined that
the Navy training and testing activities will have a negligible impact
on the affected species or stocks and, therefore, we plan to issue the
requested MMPA authorization.
Comment 78: One commenter asked if NMFS would consider that the
Navy's activities can be conducted inside and outside of designated
ranges and that there is essentially no boundary for their activities.
Response: The National Defense Authorization Act of 2004 (NDAA)
(Pub. L. 108-136) removed the ``specified geographical region''
limitation of the MMPA as it applies to a ``military readiness
activity.'' However, the Navy did designate a Study Area that includes
existing range complexes plus pierside locations and areas on the high
seas where maintenance, training, or testing may occur.
Comment 79: One commenter asked if NMFS would address issues raised
in Dr. Lubchenco's 2010 letter to the Center for Environmental Quality,
which noted a lack of knowledge on effects of sonar to marine mammals
and the difficulties of limiting impacts from sonar where mitigation
efforts depend on visual sightings.
Response: The Navy's LOA application and the AFTT FEIS/OEIS clearly
discuss the potential impacts on marine mammals when exposed to sonar.
The Navy has worked, and will continue to work, as an active partner to
investigate the extent and severity of the impacts on marine mammals
and how to reduce them. With respect to monitoring effectiveness,
neither the Navy nor NMFS have indicated that monitoring (and the
associated mitigation) will eliminate impacts. The MMPA requires that
NMFS implement the means of effecting the least practicable adverse
impacts on marine mammal species or stocks and their habitat, and NMFS
has determined that required monitoring and associated mitigation
measures accomplish this.
Comment 80: One commenter voiced concern about stranding networks
not being equipped or willing to deal with the influx of marine mammals
if NMFS authorizes the Navy's activities.
Response: The National Marine Mammal Stranding Network consists of
over 120 organizations who partner with NMFS to investigate marine
mammal strandings. Given the current fiscal environment, NMFS has
needed to make tough budget choices, including reducing and defunding
valuable programs. With the reduction in federal funding, response
resources may be limited in some geographic regions.
In 2011, NMFS and the Navy signed a National Memorandum of
Understanding (MOU) that established a framework for the Navy to assist
NMFS with response to, and investigation of, Uncommon Stranding Events
(USEs) during major training exercises by providing in-kind services to
NMFS. The MOU is implemented through Regional Stranding Investigation
Assistance Plans and outlines the region-specific Navy services that
are available to assist with USE responses. As resources are available,
the stranding network has and will continue to respond to marine mammal
strandings.
Comment 81: One commenter claimed that Navy activities taking place
in the Atlantic and Gulf of Mexico must be separated in NMFS'
regulations.
Response: The Navy designated a Study Area that includes existing
range complexes plus pierside locations and areas on the high seas
where maintenance, training, or testing may occur. Combining the Navy's
activities at each of these range complexes has no effect on how we
analyze the impacts of Navy training and testing activities on marine
mammals.
Comment 82: One commenter suggested that the Navy should not be
allowed to increase their activities while the impacts on marine
mammals are not fully documented or understood.
Response: It is important to note that, as stated in the Navy's LOA
application and the proposed rule, the expansion of the AFTT Study Area
from previous analyses is not an increase in areas where the Navy will
train and test, but merely an expansion of the area to be included in
our analysis and resulting authorization. Both NMFS and the Navy have a
responsibility to use the best available science to support our
analyses and decisions under the MMPA and NEPA. However, because the
best available science is constantly changing and our current knowledge
of marine mammal behavioral response is limited, NMFS utilizes an
adaptive management approach. In so doing, we are able to continuously
assess impacts and incorporate new mitigation or monitoring measures
when necessary.
Comment 83: One commenter asked about the effects of missile
launches on air and water quality; how much alumina oxide is released
by rockets and missile launches and the effects on marine life; and the
effects of hazardous materials discharged from Navy vessels on marine
life.
Response: The AFTT FEIS/OEIS addresses all potential impacts to the
human environment, which is available online at http://www.aftteis.com.
The AFTT DEIS/OEIS was made availabile to the public on May 11, 2012
and was referenced in our notice of receipt (77 FR 60678, October 4,
2012) and the proposed rule (78 FR 7050, January 31, 2013).
Comment 84: One commenter asked about the impacts of testing new
electromagnetic weapons systems on marine mammals and what studies have
been done.
Response: The Navy did not request MMPA authorization for takes
resulting from electromagnetic stressors. Data regarding the influence
of magnetic fields and electromagnetic fields on cetaceans is
inconclusive. Dolman et al. (2003) provides a literature review of the
influences of marine wind farms on cetaceans. The literature focuses on
harbor porpoises and dolphin species
[[Page 73049]]
because of their nearshore habitats. Teilmann et al. (2002) evaluated
the frequency of harbor porpoise presence at wind farm locations around
Sweden (the electrical current conducted by undersea power cables
creates an electromagnetic field around those cables). Although
electromagnetic field influences were not specifically addressed, the
presence of cetacean species implies that at least those species are
not repelled by the presence of electromagnetic fields around undersea
cables associated with offshore wind farms. Based on the available
literature, no evidence of electrosensitivity in marine mammals was
found except recently in the Guiana dolphin (Czech-Damal et al. 2011).
Based on the available literature, no evidence suggests any magnetic
sensitivity for polar bears, sea otters, sea lions, fur seals, walrus,
earless seals, and Sirenia (Normandeau et al. 2011). As described in
the discussion below, some literature suggests that some cetaceans
(whales, dolphins, and porpoises) may be sensitive to changes in
magnetic fields, however, NMFS concurred with the Navy that the
available data did not support the need for MMPA authorization at this
time.
Comment 85: Earthjustice suggested that the Navy's DEIS/OEIS is
fatally flawed because it fails to consider a ``no action''
alternative.
Response: The Council on Environmental Quality regulations require
that agencies develop and analyze a range of alternatives to the
proposed action, including a No Action Alternative. The No Action
Alternative serves as a baseline description from which to compare the
potential impacts of the proposed action. The Council on Environmental
Quality provides two interpretations of the No Action Alternative,
depending on the proposed action. One interpretation would mean the
proposed action would not take place. For example, this interpretation
would be used if the proposed action was the construction of a
facility. The second interpretation, which applies to the AFTT FEIS/
OEIS, allows the No Action Alternative to be the continuation of the
present course of action until that action is changed. The purpose of a
``No Action Alternative'' is to ensure that agencies compare the
potential impacts of the proposed action to the potential impacts of
maintaining the status quo.
The AFTT FEIS/OEIS includes a ``No Action Alternative'' where the
Navy would continue baseline training and testing activities, as
defined by existing Navy environmental planning documents. The baseline
testing activities also include those testing events that historically
occur in the Study Area and have been subject to previous analyses.
However, the No Action Alternative fails to meet the purpose of and
need for the Navy's proposed action because it would not allow the Navy
to meet current and future training and testing requirements necessary
to achieve and maintain military readiness.
Comment 86: NRDC recommended that the Navy avoid fish spawning
grounds and important habitat for fish species potentially vulnerable
to significant behavioral change, such as wide-scale displacement
within the water column or changes in breeding behavior.
Response: While NMFS considers impacts to prey species as a
component of marine mammal habitat, these concerns are mostly outside
the purview of the MMPA. Impacts to fish spawning grounds and habitat
use are dealt with under the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and
Management Act (MSFCMA) as it relates to Essential Fish Habitat (EFH).
The Navy determined that their activities may adversely affect EFH;
therefore, the Navy concluded that a consultation under the MSFCMA was
necessary. NMFS found that the proposed mitigation measures would
adequately address impacts to EFH and made no additional EFH
conservation recommendations.
Comment 87: NRDC recommended that the Navy dedicate research and
technology development to reduce the impacts of active acoustic sources
on marine mammals.
Response: As stated in the Navy Research section of the proposed
rule (78 FR 7050, January 31, 2013; pages 7100-7101), the Navy provides
a significant amount of funding and support to marine research. In
summary, from 2004 to 2012, the Navy provided over $230 million for
marine species research and currently sponsors 70 percent of all U.S.
research concerning the effects of human-generated sound on marine
mammals and 50 percent of such research conducted worldwide. The Navy's
research and development efforts have significantly improved our
understanding of the effects of Navy-generated sound in the marine
environment. These studies have supported the modification of acoustic
criteria to more accurately assess behavioral impacts to beaked whales
and the thresholds for auditory injury for all species, and the
adjustment of mitigation zones to better avoid injury. In addition,
Navy scientists work cooperatively with other government researchers
and scientists, universities, industry, and nongovernmental
conservation organizations in collecting, evaluating, and modeling
information on marine resources.
Comment 88: NRDC recommended that the Navy agree to additional
clean-up and retrieval of the massive amount of discarded debris and
expended materials associated with its proposed activities.
Response: The Navy conducted a full analysis of the potential
impacts of military expended materials on marine mammals and will
implement several mitigation measures to help avoid or reduce those
impacts. This analysis is contained throughout Chapter 3 (Affected
Environment and Environmental Consequences) of the AFTT FEIS/OEIS. The
Navy determined that military expended materials related to training
exercises under a worst-case scenario will not impact more than 0.00009
percent of the available soft bottom habitat annually within any of the
range complexes. The Navy has standard operation procedures in place to
reduce the amount of military expended materials to the maximum extent
practical, including recovering targets and associated parachutes.
Estimated Take of Marine Mammals
In the Estimated Takes of Marine Mammals section of the proposed
rule, NMFS described the potential effects to marine mammals from Navy
training and testing activities in relation to the MMPA regulatory
definitions of Level A and Level B harassment (78 FR 7050, January 31,
2013; pages 7102-7111). That information has not changed and is not
repeated here.
Tables 13 and 14 provide a summary of non-impulsive thresholds to
TTS and PTS for marine mammals. A detailed explanation of how these
thresholds were derived is provided in the AFTT DEIS/OEIS Criteria and
Thresholds Technical Report (http://aftteis.com/DocumentsandReferences/AFTTDocuments/SupportingTechnicalDocuments.aspx) and summarized in
Chapter 6 of the Navy's LOA application (http://www.nmfs.noaa.gov/pr/permits/incidental.htm#applications).
[[Page 73050]]
Table 13--Onset TTS and PTS Thresholds for Sonar and Other Active Acoustic Sources
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Group Species Onset TTS Onset PTS
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Low-Frequency Cetaceans.............. All mysticetes......... 178 dB re 1[micro]Pa2- 198 dB re 1[micro]Pa2-
sec (LFII). sec (LFII).
Mid-Frequency Cetaceans.............. Most delphinids, beaked 178 dB re 1[micro]Pa2- 198 dB re 1[micro]Pa2-
whales, medium and sec (MFII). sec (MFII).
large toothed whales.
High-Frequency Cetaceans............. Porpoises, Kogia spp... 152 dB re 1[micro]Pa2- 172 dB re 1[micro]Pa2-
sec (HFII). secSEL (HFII).
Phocidae In-water.................... Harbor, Hawaiian monk, 183 dB re 1[micro]Pa2- 197 dB re 1[micro]Pa2-
elephant seals. sec (PWI). sec (PWI).
Otariidae & Obodenidae In-water...... Sea lions and fur seals 206 dB re 1[micro]Pa2- 220 dB re 1[micro]Pa2-
sec (OWI). sec (OWI).
Mustelidae In-water.................. Sea otters.............
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Note: LFII, MFII, HFII: New compound Type II weighting functions; PWI, OWI: Original Type I (Southall et al.
2007) for pinniped and mustelid in water.
Table 14--Impulsive Sound Explosive Criteria and Thresholds for Predicting Physiological Effects
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Behavior Slight Injury
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Group Species Behavioral (for >=2 Mortality
pulses/24 hours) TTS PTS GI Tract Lung
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Low-frequency Cetaceans......... All mysticetes..... 167 dB SEL (LFII).. 172 dB SEL (LFII) 187 dB SEL (LFII) 237 dB SPL or 104 psi......... Equation 1.......... Equation 2.
or 224 dB Peak SPL. or 230 dB Peak SPL.
Mid-frequency Cetaceans......... Most delphinids, 167 dB SEL (MFII).. 172 dB SEL (MFII) 187 dB SEL (MFII)
medium and large or 224 dB Peak SPL. or 230 dB Peak SPL.
toothed whales.
High-frequency Cetaceans........ Porpoises and Kogia 141 dB SEL (HFII).. 146 dB SEL (HFII) 161 dB SEL (HFII)
spp.. or 195 dB Peak SPL. or 201dB Peak SPL.
Phocidae........................ Hawaiian monk, 172 dB SEL (PWI)... 177 dB SEL (PWI) or 192 dB SEL (PWI) or
elephant, and 212 dB Peak SPL. 218 dB Peak SPL.
harbor seal.
Otariidae....................... Sea lions and fur 195 dB SEL (OWI)... 200 dB SEL (OWI)or 215 dB SEL (OWI) or
seals. 212 dB Peak SPL. 218 dB Peak SPL.
Mustelidae...................... Sea otters.........
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Equation 1: = 39.1M1/3 (1+[DRm/
10.081])1/2 Pa - sec
Equation 2: = 91.4M1/3 (1+[DRm/
10.081])1/2 Pa - sec
Where:
M = mass of the animals in kg
DRm = depth of the receiver (animal) in meters
Existing NMFS criteria was applied to sounds generated by pile
driving and airguns (Table 15).
Table 15--Thresholds for Airguns
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Underwater airgun criteria (sound pressure level, dB re 1 [mu]Pa)
Species groups -------------------------------------------------------------------------
Level A Injury threshold Level B Disturbance threshold
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Cetaceans (whales, dolphins, 180 dB rms......................... 160 dB rms.
porpoises).
Pinnipeds (seals)..................... 190 dB rms......................... 160 dB rms.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Take Request
The AFTT FEIS/OEIS considered all training and testing activities
proposed to occur in the Study Area that have the potential to result
in the MMPA defined take of marine mammals. The stressors associated
with these activities included the following:
Acoustic (sonar and other active non-impulse sources,
explosives, swimmer defense airguns, weapons firing, launch and impact
noise, vessel noise, aircraft noise);
Energy (electromagnetic devices);
Physical disturbance or strikes (vessels, in-water
devices, military expended materials, seafloor devices);
Entanglement (fiber optic cables, guidance wires,
parachutes);
Ingestion (munitions, military expended materials other
than munitions); and
The Navy determined, and NMFS agrees, that three stressors could
potentially result in the incidental taking of marine mammals from
training and testing activities within the Study Area: (1) Non-
impulsive stressors (sonar and other active acoustic sources), (2)
impulsive stressors (explosives), and (3) vessel strikes. Non-impulsive
and impulsive stressors have the potential to result in incidental
takes of marine mammals by harassment, injury, or mortality. Vessel
strikes have the potential to result in incidental take from direct
injury and/or mortality. It is important to note that the Navy's take
estimates represent the number of exposures--not the number of
individual marine mammals that may be affected by training and testing
activities. Some individuals may be harassed multiple times while other
individuals may only be harassed once. Multiple exposures are
especially likely
[[Page 73051]]
in areas where resident populations overlap with stationary activities.
Training Activities--Based on the Navy's model and post-model
analysis (described in detail in Chapter 6 of their LOA application),
Table 16 summarizes the Navy's take request for training activities for
an annual maximum year (a notional 12-month period when all annual and
non-annual events could occur) and the summation over a 5-year period
(annual events occurring five times and non-annual events occurring
three times). Table 17 summarizes the Navy's take request for training
activities by species from the modeling estimates.
Table 16--Summary of Annual and 5-Year Take Requested and Authorized for Training Activities
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Annual authorization sought 5-Year authorization sought
MMPA category Source ----------------------------------------------------------
Training activities \4\ Training activities
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Mortality................... Impulsive.............. 17 mortalities applicable to 85 mortalities applicable
any small odontocete in any to any small odontocete
given year \3\. over 5 years \5\.
Unspecified............ 10 mortalities to beaked 10 mortalities to beaked
whales in any given year whales over 5 years \1\.
\1\.
Vessel strike.......... No more than three large No more than 10 large whale
whale mortalities in any mortalities over 5 years
given year \2\.. \2\.
Level A..................... Impulsive and Non- 351......................... 1,753.
Impulsive.
Level B..................... Impulsive and.......... 2,053,473................... 10,263,631.
Non-Impulsive..........
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
\1\ Ten Ziphiidae beaked whale to include any combination of Blainville's beaked whale, Cuvier's beaked whale,
Gervais' beaked whale, northern bottlenose whale, and Sowerby's beaked whale, and True's beaked whale (not to
exceed 10 beaked whales total over the 5-year length of requested authorization).
\2\ For Training: Because of the number of incidents in which the species of the stricken animal has remained
unidentified, Navy cannot predict that proposed takes (either 3 per year or the 10 over the course of 5 years)
will be of any particular species, and therefore seeks take authorization for any combination of large whale
species (e.g., fin whale, humpback whale, minke whale, sei whale, Bryde's whale, sperm whale, blue whale,
Blainville's beaked whale, Cuvier's beaked whale, Gervais' beaked whale, and unidentified whale species),
excluding the North Atlantic right whale.
\3\ Not to exceed five mortalities for the east coast or three mortalities within the Gulf of Mexico for any
small odontocete species per year.
\4\ Predictions shown are for the theoretical maximum year, which would consist of all annual training and one
Civilian Port Defense activity. Civilian Port Defense training would occur biennially.
\5\ Not to exceed 25 mortalities for the east coast or 15 mortalities within the Gulf of Mexico for any small
odontocete species over five years.
Table 17--Species-Specific Take Requests and Authorization From Impulsive and Non-Impulsive Source Effects for
All Training Activities
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Annual \1\ Total over 5-year period
Species -----------------------------------------------------------------------
Level B Level A Level B Level A
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Mysticetes:
Blue Whale*......................... 147 0 735 0
Bryde's Whale....................... 955 0 4,775 0
Minke Whale......................... 60,402 16 302,010 80
Fin Whale*.......................... 4,490 1 22,450 5
Humpback Whale*..................... 1,643 1 8,215 5
North Atlantic Right Whale*......... 112 0 560 0
Sei Whale*.......................... 10,188 1 50,940 5
Odontocetes--Delphinids:
Atlantic Spotted Dolphin............ 177,570 12 887,550 60
Atlantic White-Sided Dolphin........ 31,228 3 156,100 15
Bottlenose Dolphin.................. 284,728 8 1,422,938 40
Clymene Dolphin..................... 19,588 1 97,938 5
Common Dolphin...................... 465,014 17 2,325,022 85
False Killer Whale.................. 713 0 3,565 0
Fraser's Dolphin.................... 2,205 0 11,025 0
Killer Whale........................ 14,055 0 70,273 0
Melon-headed Whale.................. 20,876 0 104,380 0
Pantropical Spotted Dolphin......... 70,968 1 354,834 5
Pilot Whale......................... 101,252 3 506,240 15
Pygmy Killer Whale.................. 1,487 0 7,435 0
Risso's Dolphin..................... 238,528 3 1,192,618 15
Rough Toothed Dolphin............... 1,059 0 5,293 0
Spinner Dolphin..................... 20,414 0 102,068 0
Striped Dolphin..................... 224,305 7 1,121,511 35
White-Beaked Dolphin................ 1,613 0 8,027 0
Odontocetes--Sperm Whales:
Sperm Whale*........................ 14,749 0 73,743 0
Odontocetes--Beaked Whales:
Blainville's Beaked Whale........... 28,179 0 140,893 0
Cuvier's Beaked Whale............... 34,895 0 174,473 0
Gervais' Beaked Whale............... 28,255 0 141,271 0
Northern Bottlenose Whale........... 18,358 0 91,786 0
[[Page 73052]]
Sowerby's Beaked Whale.............. 9,964 0 49,818 0
True's Beaked Whale................. 16,711 0 83,553 0
Odontocetes--Kogia Species and
Porpoises:
Kogia spp........................... 5,090 15 25,448 75
Harbor Porpoise..................... 142,811 262 711,727 1,308
Phocid Seals:
Bearded Seal........................ 0 0 0 0
Gray Seal........................... 82 0 316 0
Harbor Seal......................... 83 0 329 0
Harp Seal........................... 4 0 12 0
Hooded Seal......................... 5 0 25 0
Ringed Seal **...................... 0 0 0 0
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
\1\ Predictions shown are for the theoretical maximum year, which would consist of all annual training and one
Civilian Port Defense activity. Civilian Port Defense training would occur biennially.
* ESA-Listed Species; ** ESA-proposed; PTS: permanent threshold shift; TTS: temporary threshold shift.
Testing Activities--Table 18 summarizes the Navy's take request and
NMFS' authorization for testing activities and Table 19 specifies the
Navy's take request and NMFS' authorization for testing activities by
species from the modeling estimates. Table 20 summarizes the Navy's
take request and NMFS' authorization for testing activities involving
ship shock trials.
Table 18--Summary of Annual and 5-Year Take Requests and Authorization for Testing Activities
[Excluding ship shock trials]
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Annual authorization sought 5-Year authorization sought
MMPA category Source ----------------------------------------------------------
Testing activities \2\ Testing activities \2\
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Mortality................... Impulsive.............. 11 mortalities applicable to 55 mortalities applicable
any small odontocete in any to any small odontocete
given year \2 3\. over 5 years \4\.
Unspecified............ None........................ None.
Vessel strike.......... No more than one large whale No more than one large
mortality in any given year whale mortality over 5
\1\. years \1\.
Level A..................... Impulsive and Non- 375......................... 1,735.
Impulsive.
Level B..................... Impulsive and Non- 2,441,640................... 11,559,236.
Impulsive.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
\1\ For Testing: Because of the number of incidents in which the species of the stricken animal has remained
unidentified, the Navy cannot predict that the proposed takes (one over the course of 5 years) will be of any
particular species, and therefore seeks take authorization for any large whale species (e.g., fin whale,
humpback whale, minke whale, sei whale, Bryde's whale, sperm whale, blue whale, Blainville's beaked whale,
Cuvier's beaked whale, Gervais' beaked whale, and unidentified whale species), excluding the North Atlantic
right whale.
\2\ Excluding ship shock trials.
\3\ Not to exceed four mortalities for the east coast or two mortalities within the Gulf of Mexico for any
species of small odontocete per year.
\4\ Not to exceed 20 mortalities for the east coast or 10 mortalities within the Gulf of Mexico for any species
of small odontocete over five years.
Table 19--Species-Specific Take Requests and Authorization From Impulsive and Non-Impulsive Source Effects for
all Testing Activities
[Including ship shock trials]
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Annual \1 2\ Total over 5-year period
Species -----------------------------------------------------------------------
Level B Level A Level B Level A
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Mysticetes:
Blue Whale *........................ 18 0 82 0
Bryde's Whale....................... 64 0 304 0
Minke Whale......................... 7,756 15 34,505 28
Fin Whale *......................... 599 0 2,784 0
Humpback Whale *.................... 200 0 976 0
North Atlantic Right Whale *........ 87 0 395 0
Sei Whale *......................... 796 0 3,821 0
Odontocetes--Delphinids:
Atlantic Spotted Dolphin............ 24,429 1,854 104,647 1,964
Atlantic White-Sided Dolphin........ 10,330 147 50,133 166
Bottlenose Dolphin.................. 33,708 149 146,863 190
Clymene Dolphin..................... 2,173 80 10,169 87
[[Page 73053]]
Common Dolphin...................... 52,546 2,203 235,493 2,369
False Killer Whale.................. 109 0 497 0
Fraser's Dolphin.................... 171 0 791 0
Killer Whale........................ 1,540 2 7,173 2
Melon-headed Whale.................. 1,512 28 6,950 30
Pantropical Spotted Dolphin......... 7,985 71 38,385 92
Pilot Whale......................... 15,701 153 74,614 163
Pygmy Killer Whale.................. 135 3 603 3
Risso's Dolphin..................... 24,356 70 113,682 89
Rough Toothed Dolphin............... 138 0 618 0
Spinner Dolphin..................... 2,862 28 13,208 34
Striped Dolphin..................... 21,738 2,599 97,852 2,751
White-Beaked Dolphin................ 1,818 3 8,370 3
Odontocetes--Sperm Whales:
Sperm Whale *....................... 1,786 5 8,533 6
Odontocetes--Beaked Whales:
Blainville's Beaked Whale........... 4,753 3 23,561 3
Cuvier's Beaked Whale............... 6,144 1 30,472 1
Gervais' Beaked Whale............... 4,764 4 23,388 4
Northern Bottlenose Whale........... 12,096 5 60,409 6
Sowerby's Beaked Whale.............. 2,698 0 13,338 0
True's Beaked Whale................. 3,133 1 15,569 1
Odontocetes--Kogia Species and
Porpoises:
Kogia spp........................... 1,163 12 5,536 36
Harbor Porpoise..................... 2,182,872 216 10,358,300 1,080
Phocid Seals:
Bearded Seal........................ 33 0 161 0
Gray Seal........................... 3,293 14 14,149 46
Harbor Seal......................... 8,668 78 38,860 330
Harp Seal........................... 3,997 14 16,277 30
Hooded Seal......................... 295 0 1,447 0
Ringed Seal **...................... 359 0 1,795 0
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
\1\ Predictions shown are for the theoretical maximum year, which would consist of all annual testing; one CVN
ship shock trial and two other ship shock trials (DDG or LCS); and Unmanned Underwater Vehicle (UUV)
Demonstrations at each of three possible sites. One CVN, one DDG, and two LCS ship shock trials could occur
within the 5-year period. Typically, one UUV Demonstration would occur annually at one of the possible sites.
\2\ Ship shock trials could occur in either the VACAPES (year-round, except a CVN ship shock trial would not
occur in the winter) or JAX (spring, summer, and fall only) Range Complexes. Actual location and time of year
of a ship shock trial would depend on platform development, site availability, and availability of ship shock
trial support facilities and personnel. For the purpose of requesting takes, the maximum predicted effects to
a species for either location in any possible season are included in the species' total predicted effects.
* ESA-Listed Species; ** ESA-proposed; PTS: permanent threshold shift; TTS: temporary threshold shift.
Table 20--Summary of Annual and 5-Year Take Request and Authorization
for AFTT Ship Shock Trials
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Annual authorization 5-year authorization
MMPA category sought \1\ sought
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Mortality................... 20 mortalities 25 mortalities
applicable to any applicable to any
small odontocete in small odontocete
any given year \2\. over 5 years.\2\
Level A..................... 7,383............... 7,779.
Level B..................... 5,185............... 5,474.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
\1\ Up to three ship shock trials could occur in any one year (one CVN
and two DDG/LCS ship shock trials), with one CVN, one DDG, and two LCS
ship shock trials over the 5-year period. Ship shock trials could
occur in either the VACAPES (year-round, except a CVN ship shock trial
would not occur in the winter) or JAX (spring, summer, and fall only)
Range Complexes. Actual location and time of year of a ship shock
trial would depend on platform development, site availability, and
availability of ship shock trial support facilities and personnel. For
the purpose of requesting takes, the maximum predicted effects to a
species for either location in any possible season are included in the
species' total predicted effects.
\2\ Not to exceed the following specified number of mortalities for each
species: 20 mortalities of Atlantic spotted dolphins, clymene
dolphins, common dolphins, Fraser's dolphins, melon-headed whales,
pantropical spotted dolphins, spinner dolphins, and striped dolphins;
16 mortalities of Atlantic white-sided dolphins; 15 mortalities of
pilot whales; 14 mortalities of bottlenose dolphins (offshore ecotype
only); 9 mortalities of pygmy killer whales and white-beaked dolphins;
8 mortalities of Risso's dolphins; 6 mortalities of false killer
whales and rough-toothed dolphins, and 2 mortalities of Kogia spp.
Of note, in the regulatory text below, NMFS quantifies take by
presenting the 5-yr totals for each species for harassment (Level A and
Level B, testing and training, all combined) and for mortality (testing
and training combined). The specific types of harassment expected
annually, and whether they will occur during testing or training, will
continue to be specified in the LOAs as described in the preamble. This
less specific language in
[[Page 73054]]
the regulations will provide potential flexibility in the event that a
change in activities or our analysis of impacts results in changes in
the anticipated types, numbers, or distribution of take. If such a
change were to occur, NMFS would conduct an analysis to determine
whether the changes fall within the scope of impacts contemplated by
the rule and also whether they still result in a negligible impact. If
the changes are expected to result in impacts that fall within the
scope of the rule and if we still anticipate a negligible impact to
result, NMFS would propose the issuance of a revised LOA and publish a
notice in the Federal Register announcing our findings and requesting
public comments. If not, the changes would need to be addressed through
a new or amended rulemaking.
Marine Mammal Habitat
The Navy's training and testing activities could potentially affect
marine mammal habitat through the introduction of sound into the water
column, impacts to the prey species of marine mammals, bottom
disturbance, or changes in water quality. Each of these components was
considered in the AFTT DEIS/OEIS. Based on the information in the
Marine Mammal Habitat section of the proposed rule (78 FR 7050, January
31, 2013; pages 7111-7113) and the supporting information included in
the AFTT FEIS/OEIS, NMFS has determined that training and testing
activities would not have adverse or long-term impacts on marine mammal
habitat. Important marine mammal habitat areas are also addressed in
the Comments and Responses section and the Cetacean and Sound Mapping
section of this document. In summary, expected effects to marine mammal
habitat will include elevated levels of anthropogenic sound in the
water column; short-term physical alteration of the water column or
bottom topography; brief disturbances to marine invertebrates;
localized and infrequent disturbance to fish; a limited number of fish
mortalities; and temporary marine mammal avoidance.
Analysis and Negligible Impact Determination
Pursuant to NMFS' regulations implementing the MMPA, an applicant
is required to estimate the number of animals that will be ``taken'' by
the specified activities (i.e., takes by harassment only, or takes by
harassment, injury, and/or death). This estimate informs the analysis
that NMFS must perform to determine whether the activity will have a
``negligible impact'' on the affected species or stock. Level B
(behavioral) harassment occurs at the level of the individual(s) and
does not assume any resulting population-level consequences, though
there are known avenues through which behavioral disturbance of
individuals can result in population-level effects. For example, New et
al. (2013) developed a model to assess the link between feeding
energetics of beaked whales (family Ziphiidae) and their requirements
for survival and reproduction.
A negligible impact finding is based on the lack of likely adverse
effects on annual rates of recruitment or survival (i.e., population-
level effects). An estimate of the number of Level B harassment takes,
alone, is not enough information on which to base an impact
determination. In addition to considering estimates of the number of
marine mammals that might be ``taken'' through behavioral harassment,
NMFS must consider other factors, such as the likely nature of any
responses (their intensity, duration, etc.), the context of any
responses (critical reproductive time or location, migration, etc.), as
well as the number and nature of estimated Level A harassment takes,
the number of estimated mortalities, and effects on habitat. Generally
speaking, and especially with other factors being equal, the Navy and
NMFS anticipate more severe effects from takes resulting from exposure
to higher received levels (though this is in no way a strictly linear
relationship throughout species, individuals, or circumstances) and
less severe effects from takes resulting from exposure to lower
received levels.
The Navy's specified activities have been described based on best
estimates of the maximum amount of sonar and other acoustic source use
or detonations that the Navy would conduct. There may be some
flexibility in that the exact number of hours, items, or detonations
may vary from year to year, but take totals are not authorized to
exceed the 5-year totals. Furthermore the Navy's take request is based
on their model and post-model analysis. The requested number of Level B
takes does not equate to the number of individual animals the Navy
expects to harass (which is lower), but rather to the instances of take
(i.e., exposures above the Level B harassment threshold) that will
occur. Depending on the location, duration, and frequency of
activities, along with the distribution and movement of marine mammals,
individual animals may be exposed multiple times to impulse or non-
impulse sounds at or above the Level B harassment threshold. However,
the Navy is currently unable to estimate the number of individual
animals that may be taken during training and testing activities. The
model results estimate the overall number of takes that may occur to a
smaller number of individuals. While the model shows that an increased
number of exposures may take place (compared to the 2009 rulemakings
for AFAST and the east coast range complexes), the types and severity
of individual responses to training and testing activities are not
expected to change.
Taking the above into account, considering the Analysis and
Negligible Impact Determination section of the proposed rule (78 FR
7050, January 31, 2013; pages 7113-7125), and dependent upon the
implementation of mitigation measures, NMFS has determined that the
Navy's training and testing exercises will have a negligible impact on
the marine mammal species and stocks present in the Study Area.
Species-Specific Analysis
In the discussions below, the ``acoustic analysis'' refers to the
Navy's model results and post-model analysis. Using the best available
information, including marine mammal density estimates, marine mammal
depth occurrence distributions, oceanographic and environmental data,
marine mammal hearing data, and criteria and thresholds for levels of
potential effects, and in coordination with NMFS, the Navy performed a
quantitative analysis to estimate the number of marine mammals that
could be harassed by acoustic sources or explosives used during Navy
training and testing activities. Marine mammal densities used in the
model may overestimate actual densities when species data is limited
and for species with seasonal migrations (e.g., North Atlantic right
whales, humpbacks, blue whales, fin whales, sei whales). The
quantitative analysis consists of computer modeled estimates and a
post-model analysis to determine the number of potential mortalities
and harassments. The model calculates sound energy propagation from
sonars, other active acoustic sources, and explosives during naval
activities; the sound or impulse received by animat dosimeters
representing marine mammals distributed in the area around the modeled
activity; and whether the sound or impulse received by a marine mammal
exceeds the thresholds for effects. It is important to note that the
Navy's take estimates represent the total number of takes and not the
number of individuals taken, as a single individual may be taken
multiple times over the course of a year.
Although this more complex computer modeling approach accounts
[[Page 73055]]
for various environmental factors affecting acoustic propagation, the
current software tools do not consider the likelihood that a marine
mammal would attempt to avoid repeated exposures to a sound or avoid an
area of intense activity where a training or testing event may be
focused. Additionally, the software tools do not consider the
implementation of mitigation (e.g., stopping sonar transmissions when a
marine mammal is within a certain distance of a ship or range clearance
prior to detonations). In both of these situations, naval activities
are modeled as though an activity would occur regardless of proximity
to marine mammals and without any horizontal movement by the animal
away from the sound source or human activities (e.g., without
accounting for likely animal avoidance). The initial model results
overestimate the number of takes (as described previously), primarily
by behavioral disturbance. The final step of the quantitative analysis
of acoustic effects is to consider the implementation of mitigation and
the possibility that marine mammals would avoid continued or repeated
sound exposures. Mitigation and marine mammal avoidance primarily
reduce impacts by reducing Level A harassment to Level B harassment.
NMFS provided input to the Navy on this process and the Navy's
qualitative analysis is described in detail in Chapter 6 of their LOA
application (http://www.nmfs.noaa.gov/pr/permits/incidental.htm#applications). A detailed explanation of this analysis
is also provided in the technical report Post-Model Quantitative
Analysis of Animal Avoidance Behavior and Mitigation Effectiveness for
Atlantic Fleet Training and Testing (http://aftteis.com/DocumentsandReferences/AFTTDocuments/SupportingTechnicalDocuments.aspx).
Mysticetes
The Navy's acoustic analysis indicates that numerous exposures of
mysticete species to sound levels likely to result in Level B
harassment may occur, mostly from sonar and other active acoustic
stressors associated with mostly training and some testing activities
in the AFTT Study Area. Of these species, North Atlantic right,
humpback, blue, fin, and sei whales are listed as endangered under the
ESA. Level B takes are anticipated to be in the form of behavioral
harassment and no injurious takes of North Atlantic right, humpback,
blue, fin, or sei whales from sonar, or other active acoustic stressors
are expected. The majority of acoustic effects to mysticetes from sonar
and other active sound sources during training activities would be
primarily from anti-submarine warfare events involving surface ships
and hull-mounted MFAS sonar. Most Level B harassments to mysticetes
from sonar would result from received levels between 144 and 162 SPL.
High-frequency systems are not within mysticetes' ideal hearing range
and it is unlikely that they would cause a significant behavioral
reaction. The only mysticete species that may be exposed to sound or
energy from explosions resulting in the possibility of PTS is the minke
whale. Exposures would occur primarily in the VACAPES Range Complex,
followed by JAX, and Navy Cherry Point Range Complexes. However, the
Navy's proposed mitigation zones for explosive activities extend beyond
the predicted maximum range to PTS. The implementation of mitigation
and the sightability of mysticetes (due to their large size) reduces
the potential for a significant behavioral reaction or a threshold
shift to occur.
Research and observations show that if mysticetes are exposed to
sonar or other active acoustic sources they may react in a number of
ways depending on the characteristics of the sound source, their
experience with the sound source, and whether they are migrating or on
seasonal grounds (i.e., breeding or feeding). Reactions may include
alerting, breaking off feeding dives and surfacing, diving or swimming
away, or no response at all. Additionally, migrating animals may ignore
a sound source, or divert around the source if it is in their path. In
the ocean, the use of sonar and other active acoustic sources is
transient and is unlikely to repeatedly expose the same population of
animals over a short period. Around heavily trafficked Navy ports and
on fixed ranges, the possibility is greater for animals that are
resident during all or part of the year to be exposed multiple times to
sonar and other active acoustic sources. A few behavioral reactions per
year, even from a single individual, are unlikely to produce long-term
consequences for that individual or the population. Furthermore, the
implementation of mitigation measures and sightability of sei whales
(due to their large size) would further reduce the potential impacts.
Mysticetes exposed to the sound from explosions may react in a
number of ways, which may include alerting; startling; breaking off
feeding dives and surfacing; diving or swimming away; or showing no
response at all. Occasional behavioral reactions to intermittent
explosions are unlikely to cause long-term consequences for individual
mysticetes or populations. Furthermore, the implementation of
mitigation measures and sightability of sei whales (due to their large
size) would further reduce the potential impacts in addition to
reducing the potential for injury.
In addition to Level B takes, the Navy is requesting no more than
10 large whale injuries or mortalities over 5 years (no more than three
large whale mortalities in a given year) due to vessel strike during
training activities and no more than one large whale injury or
mortality over 5 years due to vessel strike during testing activities.
However, no more than three injuries or mortalities of any of the
following species would be authorized to occur in a given year between
both training and testing activities (two injuries or mortalities from
training and one injury or mortality from testing): blue whale, fin
whale, humpback whale, sei whale, and sperm whale. The Navy provided a
detailed analysis of strike data in section 6 of their LOA application.
Marine mammal mortalities were not previously authorized by NMFS in the
2009 rulemakings for AFAST and the other east coast Range Complexes.
However, over a period of 18 years (1995 to 2012), there have been 19
Navy vessel strikes in the AFAST Study Area. The highest average number
of strikes over any 5-year period was two strikes per year from 2001 to
2005. Over the last 5 years on the east coast, the Navy was involved in
only two strikes, with no confirmed marine mammal deaths as a result of
a vessel strike. The number of injuries or mortalities from vessel
strike is not expected to be an increase over the past decade, but
rather NMFS is proposing to authorize these takes for the first time.
North Atlantic Right Whale
North Atlantic right whales may be exposed to sonar or other active
acoustic stressors associated with training and testing activities
throughout the year. Exposures may occur in feeding grounds off the New
England coast, on migration routes along the east coast, and on calving
grounds in the southeast off the coast of Florida and Georgia; however,
mitigation areas will be established in these areas with specific
measures to further reduce impacts to North Atlantic right whales from
acoustic effects or ship strikes. Acoustic modeling predicts that North
Atlantic right whales could be exposed to sound that may result in 60
instances of TTS and 51 takes by behavioral harassment per year from
annually recurring training activities. The majority of these impacts
are predicted within the JAX Range
[[Page 73056]]
Complex where animals spend winter months calving. Annually recurring
testing activities could expose North Atlantic right whales to sound
that may result in 11 instances of TTS and 66 takes by behavioral
harassment per year. These impacts are predicted in Rhode Island inland
waters and within the Northeast Range Complexes. North Atlantic right
whales may be exposed to sound or energy from explosions associated
with training activities throughout the year. The acoustic analysis
predicts one TTS exposure to a North Atlantic right whale annually from
recurring training activities, but no impacts on North Atlantic right
whales due to annually recurring testing activities or ship shock
trials. Testing activities that use explosives would not occur in the
North Atlantic right whale mitigation areas, although the sound and
energy from explosions associated with testing activities may be
detectable within the mitigation areas.
The Navy and NMFS do not anticipate that a North Atlantic right
whale would be struck by a vessel during training or testing activities
because of the extensive measures in place to reduce the risk of a
vessel strike to the species. For example, the Navy would receive
information about recent North Atlantic right whale sightings before
transiting through or conducting training or testing activities in the
mitigation areas. During transits, vessels would exercise extreme
caution and proceed at the slowest speed that is consistent with
safety, mission, training, and operations. In the southeast North
Atlantic right whale mitigation area, vessels will reduce speed when
the observe a North Atlantic right whale, when they are within 5 nm (9
km) of a sighting reported in the past 12 hours, or when operating at
night or during periods of poor visibility. The Navy would also
minimize to the maximum extent practicable north-south transits through
the southeast North Atlantic right whale mitigation area. Similar
measures to reduce the risk of ship strikes would be implemented in the
northeast and mid-Atlantic mitigation areas. In addition, the Navy will
be notified of North Atlantic right whale Dynamic Management Areas
(DMAs). If a DMA is created, the Navy will consider whether to either
navigate around the area or travel through at slow safe speed
consistent with mission training and safety of navigation. The Navy
will receive notification regarding the creation of a DMA as well as
information pertaining to its location, size, and duration through the
U.S. Coast Guard's Notice to Mariners.
Due to the importance of North Atlantic right whale critical
habitat for feeding and reproductive activities, takes that occur in
those areas may have more severe effects than takes that occur while
whales are just transiting and not involved in feeding or reproductive
behaviors. To address these potentially more severe effects, NMFS and
the Navy have included mitigation measures to minimize impacts (both
number and severity) in both the northeast and southeast designated
right whale critical habitat as well as the migratory corridor which
connects them. Additional mitigation measures pertaining to training
and testing activities within the mitigation areas are described below.
In the southeast North Atlantic right whale mitigation area, no
training or testing activities using sonar or other active acoustic
sources would occur with the exception of object detection/navigational
sonar training and maintenance activities for surface ships and
submarines while entering/exiting Mayport, Florida. Training activities
involving helicopter dipping sonar would occur off of Mayport, Florida
within the right whale mitigation area; however, the majority of active
sonar activities would occur outside the southeast mitigation area. In
the northeast North Atlantic right whale mitigation area, hull-mounted
sonar would not be used (except for sonar used for navigation training
and object detection). However, a limited number of torpedo exercises
would be conducted in August and September when many North Atlantic
right whales have migrated south out of the area. Of course, North
Atlantic right whales can be found outside of designated mitigation
areas and sound from nearby activities may be detectable within the
mitigation areas. Acoustic modeling predictions consider these
potential circumstances.
Training activities that use explosives are not conducted in the
southeast North Atlantic right whale mitigation area. Training
activities that use explosives would not occur in the northeast North
Atlantic right whale mitigation area. Although, the sound and energy
from explosions associated with training activities may be detectable
within the mitigation areas.
The western North Atlantic minimum stock size is based on a census
of individual whales identified using photo-identification techniques.
Review of the photo-identification recapture database in July 2010
indicated that 396 individually recognized whales in the catalogue were
known to be alive in 2007. This value is a minimum and does not include
animals alive prior to 2007, but not recorded in the individual
sightings database as seen during December 1, 2004 to July 6, 2010
(note that matching of photos taken during 2008-2010 was not complete
at the time the data were received). It also does not include some
calves known to be born during 2007, or any other individual whales
seen during 2007, but not yet entered into the catalogue. In addition,
this estimate has no associated coefficient of variation.
Acoustic analysis indicates that no North Atlantic right whales
will be exposed to sound levels likely to result in Level A harassment.
In addition, modeling predicts no potential for serious injury or
mortality to North Atlantic right whales. Moreover, NMFS believes that
Navy Lookouts would detect right whales and implement the appropriate
mitigation measure before an animal could approach to within a distance
necessary to result in injury. Any takes that do occur would likely be
short term and at a lower received level and would likely not affect
annual rates of recruitment or survival.
Humpback Whale
The acoustic analysis predicts that humpback whales could be
exposed to sound associated with training activities that may result in
1 PTS, 1,128 TTS and 514 takes by behavioral harassments per year. The
majority of these impacts are predicted in the JAX, Navy Cherry Point,
VACAPES, and Northeast Range Complexes. Further, the analysis predicts
that humpback whales could be exposed to sound associated with testing
activities that may result in 94 TTS and 100 behavioral reactions per
year as a result of annually recurring testing activities. Humpback
whales may be exposed to sound or energy from explosions associated
with training and testing activities throughout the year. The acoustic
analysis predicts that humpback whales could be exposed to sound or
energy from explosions that may result in 1 TTS per year as a result of
annually recurring training activities and 1 TTS to a humpback whale
due to ship shock trials over a 5-year period. All predicted impacts
would be to the Gulf of Maine stock because this is the only humpback
whale stock present within the Study Area.
Important feeding areas for humpbacks are located in the Northeast,
which is an area where there are lower levels of Navy training and
testing activities. In addition, Stellwagen Bank National Marine
Sanctuary contains some of this important area and the Navy does not
plan to conduct any activities within Stellwagen Bank that may impact
humpback whales. The
[[Page 73057]]
Navy has designated several planning awareness areas (PAAs) based on
locations of high productivity that have been correlated with high
concentrations of marine mammals, including important feeding areas in
the Northeast, and would avoid conducting major training exercises
involving active sonar in PAAs.
Sei Whale
The acoustic analysis predicts that sei whales could be exposed to
sound associated with training activities that may result in 1 PTS,
6,604 TTS, and 3,582 takes by behavioral harassment per year from
annually recurring training activities. The majority of these impacts
are predicted in the VACAPES, Navy Cherry Point, and JAX Range
Complexes, with a relatively small percent predicted in the GOMEX and
Northeast Range Complexes and in areas outside of OPAREAS and range
complexes. Sei whales could be exposed to sound associated with testing
activities that may result in 439 TTS and 316 takes by behavioral
harassment per year as a result of annually recurring testing
activities. Sei whales may be exposed to sound and energy from
explosions associated with training and testing activities throughout
the year. The acoustic analysis predicts that one sei whale could be
exposed annually to sound from explosions associated with training
activities that may cause TTS and one sei whale could exhibit a
behavioral reaction. Annually recurring testing activities involving
explosives may result in 1 TTS for a sei whale per year and 7 TTS due
to exposure to explosive sound and energy from ship shock trials over a
5-year period. All predicted impacts would be to the Nova Scotia stock
because this is the only sei whale stock present within the Study Area.
The Northeast contains areas that are important for sei whales.
Whaling records (Jonsgard and Darling, 1977) and observed sei whale
feeding behavior (CeTap, 1982; Kenney and Winn, 1986) indicate that sei
whales in the North Atlantic feed primarily on copepods and secondarily
on euphausiids from April to July in the deeper water off the
southwestern and eastern edge of Georges Bank and into the southwestern
section of the Gulf of Maine (Mizroch et al., 1984). This offshore
pattern has been shown to change in response to prey availability. In
1986, sei whales were reported feeding in the shallow waters of
Stellwagen Bank (southern Gulf of Maine) from April through October in
response to an increase in copepod availability (Kenney et al., 1996;
Payne et al., 1990; Schilling et al., 1992). Mizroch et al. (1984) also
reported a personal communication with R.D. Kenney that sei whales feed
at more inshore locations, such as the Great South Channel (in 1987 and
1989), when copepod abundance is elevated in the area. Unpublished
sighting data of feeding sei whales is forthcoming from the
Provincetown Center for Coastal Studies and will be incorporated into
future spatial and temporal delineations of sei whale feeding areas.
The Navy has evaluated the types and levels of training and testing
activities that could occur in the important sei whale area described
above and concluded that only minimal training or testing activities
will occur in this area; however, if training or testing requirements
change, the Navy will need to retain the ability to conduct activities
in this area if emergent requirements dictate that this area is needed
to meet specific training or testing requirements. In addition, the
Navy's measures to protect North Atlantic right whales in the Northeast
feeding grounds overlap some feeding areas for other large whales in
the NE., including sei whales, and the mitigation measures in place in
these areas for the North Atlantic right whale also provide protection
to sei whales.
Sei whales in the North Atlantic belong to three stocks: Nova
Scotia; Iceland-Denmark Strait; and Northeast Atlantic. The Nova Scotia
stock occurs in the U.S. Atlantic waters. The best available abundance
estimate for the Nova Scotia stock is 386 individuals.
Fin Whale
The acoustic analysis predicts that fin whales could be exposed to
sound associated with training activities that may result in 1 PTS,
2,880 TTS and 1,608 takes by behavioral harassment per year. The
majority of these impacts are predicted in the VACAPES, Navy Cherry
Point, and JAX Range Complexes, with a relatively small percent of
impacts predicted in the GOMEX and Northeast Range Complexes. Fin
whales could be exposed to sound associated with testing activities
that may result in 263 TTS and 282 takes by behavioral harassment per
year as a result of annually recurring testing activities. The majority
of these impacts are predicted within the Northeast Range Complexes
with lesser impacts in the VACAPES, Navy Cherry Point, JAX, and GOMEX
Range Complexes. Fin whales may be exposed to sound or energy from
explosions associated with training and testing activities throughout
the year. The acoustic analysis predicts one TTS and one take by
behavioral harassment for fin whales annually from training activities,
1 TTS to fin whales per year from annually recurring testing
activities, and 6 TTS per 5-year period due to ship shock trials. All
predicted impacts would be to the Western North Atlantic stock because
this is the only fin whale stock present within the Study Area.
New England waters are considered a major feeding ground for fin
whales, and there is evidence the females continually return to this
area (Waring et al., 2010). The Navy has designated PAAs in the
Northeast that include some of these important feeding areas and would
avoid conducting major training exercises involving active sonar in
Northeast PAAs. In addition, the Navy's measures to protect North
Atlantic right whales in the Northeast feeding grounds overlap some of
the feeding areas for other large whales in the NE., including fin
whales, and the mitigation measures in place in these areas for the
North Atlantic right whale also provide protection to fin whales. Fin
whales in the North Atlantic belong to the western North Atlantic
stock. The best abundance estimate for the western North Atlantic stock
of fin whales is 3,985.
Blue Whale
Blue whales may be exposed to sonar or other active acoustic
stressors associated with training and testing activities throughout
the year. The acoustic analysis predicts that blue whales could be
exposed to sound associated with training activities that may result in
97 TTS and 50 takes by behavioral harassment per year. The majority of
these impacts are predicted in the VACAPES, Navy Cherry Point, and JAX
Range Complexes, with a relatively small percent of impacts predicted
in the GOMEX and Northeast Range Complexes. The acoustic analysis
predicts that 10 TTS and 6 takes by behavioral harassment may result
from annual testing activities that use sonar and other active acoustic
sources per year as a result of annually recurring testing activities.
Blue whales may be exposed to sound or energy from explosions
associated with training and testing activities throughout the year;
however, the acoustic analysis predicts that no individuals would be
impacted. All predicted impacts would be to the Western North Atlantic
stock because this is the only blue whale stock present within the
Study Area.
No areas of specific importance for reproduction or feeding for
blue whales have been identified in the AFTT Study Area. Blue whales in
the western North
[[Page 73058]]
Atlantic are classified as a single stock. The photo identification
catalogue count of 440 recognizable individuals from the Gulf of St.
Lawrence is considered a minimum population estimate for the western
North Atlantic stock.
Minke Whale
The acoustic analysis predicts that minke whales could be exposed
to sound associated with training activites that may result in 10 PTS,
40,866 TTS, and 19,497 behavioral reactions per year. The majority of
these impacts are predicted in the VACAPES, Navy Cherry Point, and JAX
Range Complexes, with a relatively small percent of effects predicted
in the Northeast and GOMEX Range Complexes. The acoustic analysis
predicts that minke whales could be exposed to sound that may result in
1 PTS, 3,571 TTS, and 3,100 takes by behavioral harassment per year as
a result of annually recurring testing activities. Minke whales may be
exposed to sound or energy from explosions associated with training and
testing activities throughout the year. The acoustic analysis predicts
that minke whales could be exposed to sound annually from training
activities that may result in 9 behavioral responses, 30 TTS, 4 PTS, 1
GI tract injury, and 1 slight lung injury (see Table 6-26 for predicted
numbers of effects). As with mysticetes overall, effects are primarily
predicted within the VACAPES Range Complex, followed by JAX, and Navy
Cherry Point Range Complexes. Minke whales could be exposed to sound
and energy from annual testing activities involving explosives that may
result in 4 behavioral responses, 11 TTS, and 2 PTS, in addition to 41
TTS, 11 slight lung injury, and 3 mortalities due to exposure to
explosive sound and energy from ship shock trials over a 5-year period.
Based on conservativeness of the onset mortality criteria and impulse
modeling and past observations of no marine mammal mortalities
associated with ship shock trials, the predicted minke whale
mortalities for CVN Ship Shock Trial are considered overestimates and
highly unlikely to occur. All predicted effects on minke whales would
be to the Canadian East Coast stock because this is the only stock
present within the Study Area.
Research and observations show that if mysticetes are exposed to
sonar or other active acoustic sources they may react in a number of
ways depending on the characteristics of the sound source, their
experience with the sound source, and whether they are migrating or on
seasonal grounds (i.e., breeding or feeding). Reactions may include
alerting, breaking off feeding dives and surfacing, diving or swimming
away, or no response at all. Additionally, migrating animals may ignore
a sound source, or divert around the source if it is in their path. In
the ocean, the use of sonar and other active acoustic sources is
transient and is unlikely to repeatedly expose the same population of
animals over a short period. Around heavily trafficked Navy ports and
on fixed ranges, the possibility is greater for animals that are
resident during all or part of the year to be exposed multiple times to
sonar and other active acoustic sources. A few behavioral reactions per
year, even from a single individual, are unlikely to produce long-term
consequences for that individual or the population. Furthermore, the
implementation of mitigation measures and sightability of minke whales
(due to their large size) would further reduce the potential impacts.
Mysticetes exposed to the sound from explosions may react in a
number of ways, which may include alerting; startling; breaking off
feeding dives and surfacing; diving or swimming away; or showing no
response at all. Occasional behavioral reactions to intermittent
explosions are unlikely to cause long-term consequences for individual
mysticetes or populations. Furthermore, the implementation of
mitigation measures and sightability of minke whales (due to their
large size) would further reduce the potential impacts in addition to
reducing the potential for injury.
Known feeding areas for minke whales have been identified in the
Northeast. From 1998 to 2009, 21 minke whales were observed feeding in
the Great South Channel and adjacent New England waters by the
Northeast Fisheries Science Center right whale aerial survey team
(personal communication, A. Henry, NEFSC) during all survey months.
These surveys operate from March through July and in October with the
goal to locate and identify North Atlantic right whales. In these
surveys, minke whale sightings and behavior are recorded
opportunistically. Twenty-one observations of surface feeding or
apparent surface feeding of minke whales were recorded from March
through September during the CeTAP (1982) surveys. Feeding or apparent
feeding observations were concentrated within the 100 meter isobath, in
the Great South Channel, along Cape Anne and Jeffreys Ledges. Although
the majority of surface feeding sightings reported are in waters
shallower than 200 meters, sub-surface feeding has been observed in the
deeper waters of the Gulf of Maine. Murphy (1995) report 27 confirmed
sightings of feeding minke whales from 1979 to 1992 in Cape Cod Bay,
Massachusetts Bay, and Stellwagen Bank. These sightings were recorded
during dedicated marine mammals research cruises and from whalewatching
vessels. Unpublished sighting data of feeding minke whales is
forthcoming from the Provincetown Center for Coastal Studies and will
be incorporated to further delineate feeding areas. Until that time, we
conservatively delineate the Gulf of Maine, Georges Bank, and the Great
South Channel as minke whale feeding areas from March through October.
The Navy has evaluated the types and levels of training and testing
activities that could occur in the minke whale feeding areas and
concluded that only minimal training or testing activities will occur
in this area; however, if training or testing requirements change, the
Navy will need to retain the ability to conduct activities in this area
if emergent requirements dictate that this area is needed to meet
specific training or testing requirements. In addition, the Navy's
measures to protect North Atlantic right whales in the Northeast
calving grounds overlap some of the important feeding areas for other
large whales in the NE., including minke whales, and the mitigation
measures in place in these areas for the North Atlantic right whale
also provide protection to minke whales.
Bryde's Whale
The acoustic analysis predicts that Bryde's whales could be exposed
to sound associated with training activities that may result in 629 TTS
and 326 takes by behavioral harassment. The majority of these impacts
are predicted in the VACAPES, Navy Cherry Point, and JAX Range
Complexes, with a relatively small percent of effects predicted in the
Northeast Range Complex. A distinct population of Bryde's whales
resides year round within a specific portion of the northern Gulf of
Mexico (Figure 1). Most sightings of Bryde's whales in the Gulf of
Mexico are from ship-based and aerial marine mammal line-transect
abundance surveys conducted by NMFS (Waring et al., 2009, see data in
OBIS-SEAMAP). These surveys were conducted at various times throughout
all seasons and covered waters from the 20 m isobaths to the seaward
extent of the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) (Fulling et al., 2003;
Mullin and Fulling, 2004). Although survey effort covers all of the
oceanic waters of the Gulf of
[[Page 73059]]
Mexico, Bryde's whales have only been observed between the 100 and 300
m isobaths in the eastern Gulf of Mexico, from south of Pensacola, FL
to northwest of Tampa Bay (personal communication, Lance Garrison,
SEFSC), which may be evidence of a small resident population inhabiting
the area. The Navy has evaluated the types and levels of training and
testing activities that could occur in the possible Bryde's whale BIA
in eastern GOMEX. The Navy has determined that very few training or
testing activities are likely to occur in the southern half of this
BIA. Additionally, Navy has agreed to expand the eastern GOMEX PAA to
encompass the Bryde's whale area represented in the possible BIA.
[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TR04DE13.003
Bryde's whales could be exposed to sound that may result in 39 TTS
and 21 takes by behavioral harassment per year as a result of annually
recurring testing activities. Bryde's whales may be exposed to sound or
energy from explosions associated with training and testing activities
throughout the year; however, the acoustic analysis predicts that no
individuals would be impacted. All predicted effects on Bryde's whales
would be to the Gulf of Mexico Oceanic stock because this is the only
stock present within the Study Area.
Sperm Whale
Sperm whales may be exposed to sonar or other active acoustic
stressors associated with training and testing activities throughout
the year. The acoustic analysis predicts that sperm whales could be
exposed to sound associated with training activities that may result in
435 TTS and 14,311 takes by behavioral harassment annually from
annually recurring training activities; and a maximum of one behavioral
reactions from each biennial training activity civilian port defense.
Sperm whales could be exposed to sound from annually recurring testing
activities that may result in 584 TTS and 1,101 takes by behavioral
harassment per year. Sperm whales may be exposed to sound and energy
from explosions associated with training and testing activities
throughout the year. The acoustic analysis predicts one TTS and one
take by behavioral harassment for sperm whales per year from explosions
associated with training activities, one sperm whale take by behavioral
harassment per year due to annually recurring testing activities, and
up to 20 TTS and 6 slight lung injuries for sperm whales over a 5-year
period as a result of ship shock trials in the VACAPES or JAX Range
Complex. Predicted effects on sperm whales within the Gulf of Mexico
are presumed to primarily impact the Gulf of Mexico Oceanic stock,
whereas the majority of impacts predicted offshore of the east coast
would impact the North Atlantic stock.
Research and observations show that if sperm whales are exposed to
sonar or other active acoustic sources they may react in a number of
ways depending on their experience with the sound source and what
activity they are engaged in at the time of the acoustic exposure.
Sperm whales have shown resilience to acoustic and human disturbance,
although they may react to sound sources and activities within a few
kilometers. Sperm whales that are exposed to activities that involve
the use of sonar and other active acoustic sources may alert, ignore
the stimulus, avoid the area by swimming away or diving, or display
aggressive behavior. Some (but not all) sperm whale vocalizations might
overlap with the MFAS/HFAS frequency range, which
[[Page 73060]]
could potentially temporarily decrease an animal's sensitivity to the
calls of conspecifics or returning echolocation signals. However, as
noted previously, NMFS does not anticipate TTS of a long duration or
severe degree to occur as a result of exposure to sonar and other
active acoustic sources. The majority of Level B takes are expected to
be in the form of mild responses. The implementation of mitigation
measures and the large size of sperm whales (i.e., increased
sightability) are expected to prevent any significant behavioral
reactions. Therefore, long-term consequences for individuals or
populations would not be expected.
The region of the Mississippi River Delta (Desoto Canyon) has been
recognized for high densities of sperm whales and may represent an
important calving and nursing or feeding area for these animals. Sperm
whales typically exhibit a strong affinity for deep waters beyond the
continental shelf, though in the area of the Mississippi Delta they
also occur on the outer continental shelf break. However, there is a
PAA designated immediately seaward of the continental shelf associated
with the Mississippi Delta, in which the Navy plans to conduct no more
than one major exercise and which they plan to take into consideration
in the planning of unit-level exercises. Therefore, NMFS does not
expect that impacts will be focused, extensive, or severe in the sperm
whale calving area.
Sperm whales within the Study Area belong to one of three stocks:
North Atlantic; Gulf of Mexico Oceanic; or Puerto Rico and U.S. Virgin
Islands. The best abundance estimate for sperm whales in the western
North Atlantic is 4,804. The best abundance estimate for sperm whales
in the northern Gulf of Mexico is 1,665.
Pygmy and Dwarf Sperm Whales
Pygmy and dwarf sperm whales may be exposed to sonar or other
active acoustic stressors associated with training and testing
activities throughout the year. The acoustic analysis predicts that
pygmy and dwarf sperm whales could be exposed to sound that may result
in 13 PTS, 4,914 TTS, and 169 takes by behavioral harassment from
annually recurring training activities; and a maximum of 1 TTS from the
biennial training activity civilian port defense. The majority of
predicted impacts on these species are within the JAX and GOMEX Range
Complexes. Pygmy and dwarf sperm whales could be exposed to sound that
may result in 5 PTS, 1,061 TTS and 29 takes by behavioral harassment
per year from annually recurring activities. Pygmy and dwarf sperm
whales may be exposed to sound and energy from explosions associated
with training and testing activities throughout the year. The acoustic
analysis predicts that pygmy and dwarf sperm whales could be exposed to
sound from annual training activities involving explosions that may
result in 1 take by behavioral harassment, 5 TTS, and 2 PTS (see Table
6-26 in the LOA application for predicted numbers of effects). The
majority of these exposures occur within the VACAPES and GOMEX Range
Complexes. Pygmy or dwarf sperm whales could be exposed to energy or
sound from underwater explosions that may result in 1 take by
behavioral harassment, 2 TTS, and 1 PTS per year as a result of
annually recurring testing activities. These impacts could happen
anywhere throughout the Study Area where testing activities involving
explosives occur. Additionally, the acoustic analysis predicts 6 TTS, 1
PTS, and 3 slight lung injury to a Kogia species over a 5-year period
due to ship shock trials either in the VACAPES or JAX Range Complex.
Predicted effects on pygmy and dwarf sperm whales within the Gulf of
Mexico are presumed to primarily impact the Gulf of Mexico stocks,
whereas the majority of effects predicted offshore of the east coast
would impact the Western North Atlantic stocks.
Research and observations on Kogia species are limited. However,
these species tend to avoid human activity and presumably anthropogenic
sounds. Pygmy and dwarf sperm whales may startle and leave the
immediate area of the anti-submarine warfare training exercise.
Significant behavioral reactions seem more likely than with most other
odontocetes, however it is unlikely that animals would receive multiple
exposures over a short time period allowing animals time to recover
lost resources (e.g., food) or opportunities (e.g., mating). Therefore,
long-term consequences for individual Kogia or their respective
populations are not expected.
No areas of specific importance for reproduction or feeding for
Kogia species have been identified in the AFTT Study Area. Kogia
species are separated into two stocks within the Study Area: the
Western North Atlantic and Gulf of Mexico Oceanic. The best estimate
for both species in the U.S. Atlantic is 395 individuals. The best
estimate for both species in the northern Gulf of Mexico is 453.
Beaked Whales
Beaked whales (six species total) may be exposed to sonar or other
active acoustic stressors associated with training and testing
activities throughout the year. Table 21 presents the total takes over
the 5-year rule of beaked whales from training and testing activities.
Table 21--Total Takes Over 5-Year Period From Training and Testing Activities
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Level B Level A
Species harassment harassment Mortality
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Blainville's beaked whale.............................. 164,454 3 10
Cuvier's beaked whale.................................. 204,945 1
Gervais' beaked whale.................................. 164,659 4
Northern bottlenose whale.............................. 152,195 6
Sowerby's beaked whale................................. 63,156 0
True's beaked whale.................................... 99,122 1
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The majority of these impacts happen within the Northeast Range
Complexes, with lesser effects in the VACAPES, Navy Cherry Point, JAX,
Key West and GOMEX Range Complexes. Beaked whales may be exposed to
sound and energy from explosions associated with training and testing
activities throughout the year; however, acoustic modeling predicts
that no beaked whales would be impacted from annually recurring
training and testing activities. The acoustic analysis predicts 7 TTS
and 15 slight lung injuries to beaked whale species over a 5-year
period due to ship shock trials. Predicted effects on beaked whales
within the Gulf of Mexico are presumed to primarily impact the Gulf of
Mexico stocks, whereas the majority of effects predicted offshore of
the east coast
[[Page 73061]]
would impact the Western North Atlantic stocks.
The Navy designated several planning awareness areas based on
locations of high productivity that have been correlated with high
concentrations of marine mammals and areas with steep bathymetric
contours that are frequented by deep diving marine mammals such as
beaked whales. For activities involving active sonar, the Navy would
avoid planning major exercises in the planning awareness areas where
feasible. In addition, to the extent operationally feasible, the Navy
would not conduct more than one of the four major training exercises or
similar scale events per year in the Gulf of Mexico planning awareness
area. The best abundance estimate for the undifferentiated complex of
beaked whales (Ziphius and Mesoplodon species) in the northwest
Atlantic is 3,513. The best abundance estimate available for Cuvier's
beaked whales in the northern Gulf of Mexico is 65. The best abundance
estimate available for Mesoplodon species is a combined estimate for
Blainville's beaked whale and Gervais' beaked whale in the oceanic
waters of the Gulf of Mexico is 57. The current abundance estimate for
the northern bottlenose whale in the eastern North Atlantic is 40,000,
but population estimates for this species along the eastern U.S. coast
are unknown.
Research and observations show that if beaked whales are exposed to
sonar or other active acoustic sources they may startle, break off
feeding dives, and avoid the area of the sound source to levels of 157
dB (McCarthy et al., 2011). However, in research done at the Navy's
instrumented tracking range in the Bahamas, animals leave the immediate
area of the anti-submarine warfare training exercise, but return within
a few days after the event ends. At the Bahamas range, populations of
beaked whales appear to be stable. The analysis also indicates that no
exposures to sound levels likely to result in Level A harassment would
occur. However, while the Navy's model did not quantitatively predict
any mortalities of beaked whales, the Navy requests a limited number of
takes by mortality given the sensitivities these species may have to
anthropogenic activities. Almost 40 years of conducting similar
exercises in the AFTT Study Area without observed incident indicates
that injury or motality are not expected to occur as a result of Navy
activities.
Some beaked whale vocalizations might overlap with the MFAS/HFAS
frequency range (2-20 kHz), which could potentially temporarily
decrease an animal's sensitivity to the calls of conspecifics or
returning echolocation signals. However, NMFS does not anticipate TTS
of a long duration or severe degree to occur as a result of exposure to
sonar and other active acoustic sources. No beaked whales are predicted
to be exposed to sound levels associated with PTS or injury.
As discussed previously, scientific uncertainty exists regarding
the potential contributing causes of beaked whale strandings and the
exact behavioral or physiological mechanisms that can potentially lead
to the ultimate physical effects (stranding and/or death) that have
been documented in a few cases. Although NMFS does not expect injury or
mortality of any of these species to occur as a result of the training
exercises involving the use of sonar and other active acoustic sources,
there remains the potential for the operation of sonar and other active
acoustic sources to contribute to the mortality of beaked whales.
Consequently, NMFS proposes to authorize mortality and we consider the
10 potential mortalities from across the seven species potentially
effected over the course of 5 years in our negligible impact
determination (NMFS only intends to authorize a total of 10 beaked
whale mortality takes, but since they could be of any of the species,
we consider the effects of 10 mortalities of any of the six species).
Dolphins and Small Whales
Delphinids (dolphins and small whales) may be exposed to sonar or
other active acoustic stressors associated with training and testing
activities throughout the year. Table 22 presents the acoustic analysis
predictions of exposes for 17 species of delphinids (Atlantic spotted
dolphin, Atlantic white-sided dolphin, bottlenose dolphin, clymene
dolphin, common dolphin, false killer whale, Fraser's dolphin, killer
whale, melon-headed whale, pantropical spotted dolphin, pilot whale,
pygmy killer whale, Risso's dolphin, rough-toothed dolphin, spinner
dolphin, striped dolphin, and white-beaked dolphin)
Table 22--Total Takes Over 5-Year Period From Training and Testing Activities
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Level B Level A
Species harassment harassment Mortality
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Atlantic spotted dolphin............................... 992,197 2,024 * 165
Atlantic white-sided dolphin........................... 206,233 181
Bottlenose dolphin..................................... 1,569,801 230
Clymene dolphin........................................ 108,107 92
Common dolphin......................................... 2,560,515 2,454
False killer whale..................................... 4,062 0
Fraser's dolphin....................................... 11,816 0
Killer whale........................................... 77,426 2
Melon-headed whale..................................... 111,330 30
Pantropical spotted dolphin............................ 393,219 97
Pilot whale............................................ 580,854 178
Pygmy killer whale..................................... 8,038 3
Risso's dolphin........................................ 1,306,300 104
Rough-toothed dolphin.................................. 5,911 0
Spinner dolphin........................................ 115,276 34
Striped dolphin........................................ 1,219,363 2,786
White-beaked dolphin................................... 16,397 3
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
* (Appliable to any small odontocete species).
The high take numbers are due in part to an increase in explosive
detonations. However, many of these species generally travel in large
pods and should be visible from a distance in order to implement
mitigation measures
[[Page 73062]]
and reduce potential impacts. In addition, the majority of takes are
anticipated to be by behavioral harassment in the form of mild
responses. Behavioral responses can range from alerting, to changing
their behavior or vocalizations, to avoiding the sound source by
swimming away or diving. Delphinids may be exposed to sound and energy
from explosions associated with training and testing activities
throughout the year. The acoustic analysis predicts that delphinids
could be exposed to sound that may result in mortality, injury,
temporary hearing loss and behavioral responses.
These predicted impacts would occur primarily in the VACAPES Range
Complex, as well as the Naval Surface Warfare Center, Panama City
Division Testing Range, but a few impacts could occur throughout the
Study Area. While the Navy does not anticipate delphinid mortalities
from underwater detonations during mine neutralization activities
involving time-delay diver placed charges, there is a possibility of a
marine mammal approaching too close to an underwater detonation when
there is insufficient time to delay or stop without jeopardizing human
safety.
Based on conservativeness of the onset mortality criteria and
impulse modeling, past observations of no marine mammal mortalities
associated with ship shock trials, and implementation of mitigation,
the mortality results predicted by the acoustic analysis are over-
estimated are not expected to occur. Therefore, the Navy conservatively
estimates that 10 small odontocetes mortalities could occur during the
CVN Ship Shock Trial and 5 small odontocetes mortalities could occur
due to each DDG or LCS Ship Shock Trial. Most delphinid species are
separated into two stocks within the Study Area: the Western North
Atlantic and Gulf of Mexico. Predicted effects on delphinids within the
Gulf of Mexico are presumed to primarily impact the Gulf of Mexico
stocks, whereas the majority of effects predicted offshore of the east
coast would impact the Western North Atlantic stocks. Bottlenose
dolphins are divided into one Oceanic and many Coastal stocks along the
east coast. The majority of exposures to bottlenose dolphins are likely
to be caused by ship shock trials and these impacts would occur to the
Oceanic stock only. Nearshore and in-port events could expose some
animals in Coastal stocks. On the East Coast, the following coastal
stocks have potential to overlap with explosive activity locations:
--Northern North Carolina Estuarine System
--Western North Atlantic Southern Migratory
--Southern North Carolina Estuarine System
--Western North Atlantic South Carolina/Georgia Coastal
--Western North Atlantic Northern Florida Coastal
Within the Gulf of Mexico, the following coastal stocks have potential
to overlap with explosive activity locations:
--Gulf of Mexico Northern Coastal
--Gulf of Mexico Western Coastal
--Northern Gulf of Mexico Bay, Sound, and Estuary Stocks
--Block 52 Nueces Bay, Corpus Christi Bay
--Block 54 Matagorda Bay, Tres Palacios Bay, Lavaca Bay
--Block 09 Choctawhatchee Bay
--Block 10 St. Andrew Bay
--Block 11 St. Joseph Bay
Table 3-1 in the Navy's LOA application provides the abundance
estimates for the different dolphin stocks. No areas of specific
importance for reproduction or feeding for dolphins have been
identified in the AFTT Study Area.
Harbor Porpoises
Harbor porpoises may be exposed to sonar or other active acoustic
stressors associated with training and testing activities throughout
the year. The acoustic analysis predicts that harbor porpoises could be
exposed to sound that may result in 62 PTS, 20,161 TTS, and 120,895
takes by behavioral harassment from annually recurring training
activities; and a maximum of 432 TTS and 725 takes by behavioral
harassment from the biennial training activity civilian port defense.
Annual testing activities could expose harbor porpoises to level of
sonar and other active acoustic source sound resulting in 99 PTS,
78,250 TTS, and 1,964,774 takes by behavioral harassment per year. The
high take numbers are due in part to an increase in explosive
detonations. In addition, the majority of takes are anticipated to be
by behavioral harassment in the form of mild responses. Behavioral
responses can range from alerting, to changing their behavior or
vocalizations, to avoiding the sound source by swimming away or diving.
Predicted impacts on these species are within the VACAPES and Northeast
Range Complexes primarily within inland waters and along the Northeast
U.S. Continental Shelf Large Marine Ecosystem. The behavioral response
function is not used to estimate behavioral responses by harbor
porpoises; rather, a single threshold is used. Because of this very low
behavioral threshold (120 dB re 1 [mu]Pa) for harbor porpoises, animals
at distances exceeding 200 km in some cases are predicted to have a
behavioral reaction in this acoustic analysis. Although this species is
known to be more sensitive to these sources at lower received levels,
it is not known whether animals would actually react to sound sources
at these ranges, regardless of the received sound level. Harbor
porpoises may be exposed to sound and energy from explosions associated
with training and testing activities throughout the year. The acoustic
analysis predicts that harbor porpoises could be exposed to sound that
may result in 94 behavioral responses, 497 TTS, 177 PTS, 1
gastrointestinal tract injury, 21 slight lung injuries, and 2
mortalities annually; and 7 TTS and 1 PTS biannually for civilian port
defense activities (see Table 6-26 and Table 6-28 in the LOA
application for predicted numbers of effects). The acoustic analysis
predicts that harbor porpoises could be exposed to sound that may
result in 484 behavioral responses, 348 TTS, 110 PTS, 7 slight lung
injuries, and 1 mortality per year due to annually recurring testing
activities. The acoustic analysis predicts no impacts on harbor
porpoises as a result of ship shock trials. Predicted impacts on this
species are mostly in the VACAPES Range Complex, with a few impacts in
the Northeast Range Complex, generally within the Northeast U.S.
Continental Shelf Large Marine Ecosystem.
Research and observations of harbor porpoises show that this
species is wary of human activity and will avoid anthropogenic sound
sources in many situations at levels down to 120 dB. This level was
determined by observing harbor porpoise reactions to acoustic deterrent
and harassment devices used to drive away animals from around fishing
nets and aquaculture facilities. Avoidance distances were on the order
of a kilometer or more, but it is unknown if animals would react
similarly if the sound source was located at a greater distance of tens
or hundreds of kilometers. Since a large proportion of testing
activities happen within harbor porpoise habitat in the northeast,
predicted effects on this species are greater relative to other marine
mammals. Nevertheless, it is not known whether or not animals would
actually react to sound sources at these ranges, regardless of the
received sound level. Harbor porpoises may startle and leave the
immediate area of the testing
[[Page 73063]]
event, but may return after the activity has ceased. Therefore, these
animals could avoid more significant impacts, such as hearing loss,
injury, or mortality. Significant behavioral reactions seem more likely
than with most other odontocetes, especially at closer ranges (within a
few kilometers). Since these species are typically found in nearshore
and inshore habitats, resident animals that are present throughout the
year near Navy ports of fixed ranges in the northeast could receive
multiple exposures over a short period of time year round. Animals that
do not exhibit a significant behavioral reaction would likely recover
from any incurred costs, which reduce the likelihood of long-term
consequences, such as reduced fitness, for the individual or
population.
All harbor porpoises within the Study Area belong to the Gulf of
Maine/Bay of Fundy Stock and therefore, all predicted impacts would be
to this stock. The best abundance estimate for the Gulf of Maine/Bay of
Fundy stock is 89,054 individuals.
A small resident population of harbor porpoises exists in the
Northeast. Sightings have been documented mostly by NMFS ship and
aerial marine mammal surveys, strandings, and animals taken incidental
to fishing operations and reported by National Marine Fisheries Service
observers in the Sea Sampling Program. From July to September, harbor
porpoises in U.S. waters (Gulf of Maine/Bay of Fundy) are generally
concentrated in waters less than 150-m deep in the southern Bay of
Fundy and northern Gulf of Maine (Gaskin, 1977; Kraus et al., 1983;
Palka, 1995). Lower densities have been observed in the upper Bay of
Fundy and northern edge of Georges Bank during this time frame (Palka,
2000).
From October through December and April through June, harbor
porpoises are broadly dispersed from Maine to New Jersey with the
majority of the population located on the continental shelf (Waring et
al., 2010), although harbor porpoises have been tracked in waters
greater than 1800-m deep (Westgate et al., 1998).
From January through March, intermediate densities of harbor
porpoises are found in waters off New Jersey to North Carolina, and
lower densities of harbor porpoises are found in waters off New York
(Waring et al., 2010). No migratory corridor between the Bay of Fundy
and North Carolina is known.
The Navy has evaluated the types and levels of training and testing
activities that could occur in area where these harbor porpoises are
resident and concluded that only minimal training or testing activities
will occur in this area; however, if training or testing requirements
change, the Navy will need to retain the ability to conduct activities
in this area if emergent requirements dictate that this area is needed
to meet specific training or testing requirements.
Pinnipeds
Predicted effects on pinnipeds from annual training activities from
sonar and other active acoustic sources indicate that three species
(gray, harbor, and hooded seals) could be exposed to sound that may
result in 77 behavioral reactions per year from annually recurring
training activities and a maximum of 94 behavioral reactions per event
for the biennial training activity, civilian port defense. Predicted
effects on pinnipeds from annual testing activities from sonar and
other active acoustic sources indicate that exposure to sound may
result in 73 PTS, 7,494 TTS, and 6,489 behavioral reactions per year.
These predicted impacts would occur almost entirely within the
Northeast Range Complexes. Pinnipeds may be exposed to sound and energy
from explosions associated with training and testing activities
throughout the year. The acoustic analysis predicts 2 TTS and 1 take by
behavioral harassment per year from explosions associated with annually
recurring training activities and 15 takes by behavioral harassment, 15
TTS, and 2 PTS per year from explosions associated with annually
recurring testing activities. The model predicts no impacts to
pinnipeds from exposure to explosive energy and sound associated with
ship shock trials. The predicted impacts would occur in the Northeast
Range Complexes within the Northeast U.S. Continental Shelf Large
Marine Ecosystem.
Research and observations show that pinnipeds in the water are
tolerant of anthropogenic noise and activity. If seals are exposed to
sonar or other active acoustic sources and explosives they may not
react at all until the sound source is approaching within a few hundred
meters and then may alert, ignore the stimulus, change their behaviors,
or avoid the immediate area by swimming away or diving. Significant
behavioral reactions would not be expected in most cases and long-term
consequences for individual seals or populations are unlikely. Overall,
predicted effects are low and the implementation of mitigation measures
would further reduce potential impacts. Therefore, occasional
behavioral reactions to intermittent anthropogenic noise are unlikely
to cause long-term consequences for individual animals or populations.
No areas of specific importance for reproduction or feeding for
pinnipeds have been identified in the AFTT Study Area. The acoustic
analysis predicts that no pinnipeds will be exposed to sound levels or
explosive detonations likely to result in mortality. Best estimates for
the hooded and harp seals are 592,100 and 6.9 million, respectively.
The best estimate for the western north Atlantic stock of harbor seals
is 99,340. There is no best estimate available for gray seal, but a
survey of the Canadian population ranged between 208,720 and 223,220.
The North Atlantic Marine Mammal Commission Scientific Committee
derived a rough estimate of the abundance of ringed seals in the
northern extreme of the AFTT Study Area of approximately 1.3 million.
There are no estimates available for bearded seals in the western
Atlantic, the best available global population is 450,000 to 500,000,
half of which inhabit the Bering and Chukchi Seas.
Final Determination
Based on the analysis contained herein of the likely effects of the
specified activity on marine mammals and their habitat and dependent
upon the implementation of the mitigation and monitoring measures, NMFS
finds that the total taking from Navy training and testing exercises in
the AFTT Study Area will have a negligible impact on the affected
species or stocks. NMFS has finalized regulations for these exercises
that prescribe the means of effecting the least practicable adverse
impact on marine mammal species or stocks and their habitat and set
forth requirements pertaining to the monitoring and reporting of that
taking.
Subsistence Harvest of Marine Mammals
NMFS has determined that the issuance of 5-year regulations and
subsequent LOAs for Navy training and testing exercises in the AFTT
Study Area would not have an unmitigable adverse impact on the
availability of the affected species or stocks for subsistence use,
since there are no such uses in the specified area.
ESA
There are seven marine mammal species under NMFS jurisdiction
included in the Navy's incidental take request that are listed as
endangered or threatened under the ESA with confirmed or possible
occurrence in the Study Area: blue whale, humpback whale, fin whale,
sei whale, sperm
[[Page 73064]]
whale, North Atlantic right whale, and ringed seal. The Navy consulted
with NMFS pursuant to section 7 of the ESA, and NMFS also consulted
internally on the issuance of LOAs under section 101(a)(5)(A) of the
MMPA for AFTT activities. NMFS issued a Biological Opinion concluding
that the issuance of the rule and two LOAs are likely to adversely
affect but are not likely to jeopardize the continued existence of the
threatened and endangered species under NMFS' jurisdiction and are not
likely to result in the destruction or adverse modification of critical
habitat that has been designated for endangered or threatened species
in the AFTT Study Area. The Biological Opinion for this action is
available on NMFS' Web site (http://www.nmfs.noaa.gov/pr/permits/incidental.html#applications).
National Marine Sanctuaries Act (NMSA)
Federal agency actions that are likely to injure sanctuary
resources are subject to consultation with the Office of National
Marine Sanctuaries (ONMS) under section 304(d) of the National Marine
Sanctuaries Act. The Navy analyzed potential impacts to sanctuary
resources and provided the analysis in the Navy's FEIS to ONMS. In
response, ONMS determined that the use of active mid-frequency sonar is
likely to injure sanctuary resources, and recommended that: (1) The
Navy should continue the spatial mitigation measure to restrict all
active sonar use inside and within a 2.7 mile buffer around Stellwagen
Bank, Monitor, Gray's Reef, Florida Keys and Flower Garden Banks
national marine sanctuaries and that Navy not employ sonar or other
active acoustic sources within Gray's Reef national marine sanctuary;
and (2) the Navy should conduct observation and monitoring on the
effects of electromagnetic devices on sanctuary resources and share
that data with ONMS as appropriate. In response, the Navy indicated it
is proposing limited activities in the sanctuaries and will implement
considerable mitigations, and is not proposing to use active sonar in
Stellwagen Bank national marine sanctuary. Further, based on the
analysis in the FEIS and historic lack of impacts, the Navy believes
its proposed activities are unlikely to injure sanctuary resources.
Therefore, the Navy declined to implement the first recommendation. The
Navy agreed to implement the second recommendation to the maximum
extent allowed by the classification of the responsive material.
Because the Navy did not agree to implement the ONMS recommendation, it
would be responsible for mitigation and restoration or replacement of
any sanctuary resource that was injured as a result.
National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA)
NMFS participated as a cooperating agency on the AFTT FEIS/OEIS,
which was published on August 30, 2013 (78 FR 53754) and is available
on Navy's Web site: http://aftteis.com/Home.aspx. NMFS determined that
the AFTT FEIS/OEIS is adequate and appropriate to meet our
responsibilities under NEPA for the issuance of regulations and LOAs
and adopted the Navy's AFTT FEIS/OEIS.
Classification
The Office of Management and Budget has determined that this final
rule is not significant for purposes of Executive Order 12866.
Pursuant to the Regulatory Flexibility Act (RFA), the Chief Counsel
for Regulation of the Department of Commerce has certified to the Chief
Counsel for Advocacy of the Small Business Administration that this
rule, if adopted, would not have a significant economic impact on a
substantial number of small entities. The RFA requires federal agencies
to prepare an analysis of a rule's impact on small entities whenever
the agency is required to publish a notice of proposed rulemaking.
However, a federal agency may certify, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 605(b),
that the action will not have a significant economic impact on a
substantial number of small entities. The Navy is the sole entity that
would be affected by this rulemaking, and the Navy is not a small
governmental jurisdiction, small organization, or small business, as
defined by the RFA. Any requirements imposed by an LOA issued pursuant
to these regulations, and any monitoring or reporting requirements
imposed by these regulations, would be applicable only to the Navy.
NMFS does not expect the issuance of these regulations or the
associated LOAs to result in any impacts to small entities pursuant to
the RFA. Because this action, if adopted, would directly affect the
Navy and not a small entity, the Chief Counsel for Regulation concluded
that the action would not result in a significant economic impact on a
substantial number of small entities. No comments were received
regarding the economic impact of this final rule. As a result, a final
regulatory flexibility analysis was not prepared.
The Assistant Administrator for Fisheries has determined that there
is good cause under the Administrative Procedure Act (5 U.S.C.
553(d)(3)) to waive the 30-day delay in the effective date of the
measures contained in the final rule. The Navy is the only entity
subject to the regulations and it has informed NMFS that it requests
that this final rule take effect on November 14, 2013. Any delay of
enacting the final rule would result in either: (1) A suspension of
planned naval training, which would disrupt vital training essential to
national security; or (2) the Navy's procedural non-compliance with the
MMPA (should the Navy conducting training without an LOA), thereby
resulting in the potential for unauthorized takes of marine mammals.
Moreover, the Navy is ready to implement the rule immediately. For
these reasons, the Assistant Administrator finds good cause to waive
the 30-day delay in the effective date.
List of Subjects in 50 CFR Parts 216 and 218
Exports, Fish, Imports, Incidental take, Indians, Labeling, Marine
mammals, Navy, Penalties, Reporting and recordkeeping requirements,
Seafood, Sonar, Transportation.
Dated: November 14, 2013.
Alan D. Risenhoover,
Director, Office of Sustainable Fisheries, performing the functions and
duties of the Deputy Assistant Administrator for Regulatory Programs,
National Marine Fisheries Service.
For reasons set forth in the preamble, 50 CFR parts 216 and 218 are
amended as follows:
PART 216--REGULATIONS GOVERNING THE TAKING AND IMPORTING OF MARINE
MAMMALS
0
1. The authority citation for part 216 continues to read as follows:
Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1361 et seq.
Subpart V--[Removed and Reserved]
0
2. Remove and reserve, subpart V, consisting of Sec. Sec. 216.240
through 216.249.
PART 218--REGULATIONS GOVERNING THE TAKING AND IMPORTING OF MARINE
MAMMALS
0
1. The authority citation for part 218 continues to read as follows:
Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1361 et seq.
Subpart A--[Removed and Reserved]
0
2. Remove and reserve subpart A, consisting of Sec. Sec. 218.1 through
218.9
[[Page 73065]]
Subpart B--[Removed and Reserved]
0
3. Remove and reserve subpart B, consisting of Sec. Sec. 218.10
through 218.18
Subpart C--[Removed and Reserved]
0
4. Remove and reserve subpart C, consisting of Sec. Sec. 218.20
through 218.28
Subpart D--[Removed and Reserved]
0
5. Remove and reserve subpart D, consisting of Sec. Sec. 218.30
through 218.38
Subpart S--[Removed and Reserved]
0
6. Remove and reserve subpart S, consisting of Sec. Sec. 218.180
through 218.188
0
7. Subpart I is added to part 218 to read as follows:
Subpart I--Taking and Importing Marine Mammals; U.S. Navy's Atlantic
Fleet Training and Testing (AFTT)
Sec.
218.80 Specified activity and specified geographical region.
218.81 Effective dates and definitions.
218.82 Permissible methods of taking.
218.83 Prohibitions.
218.84 Mitigation.
218.85 Requirements for monitoring and reporting.
218.86 Applications for Letters of Authorization.
218.87 Letters of Authorization.
218.88 Renewals and Modifications of Letters of Authorization and
Adaptive Management.
Subpart I--Taking and Importing Marine Mammals; U.S. Navy's
Atlantic Fleet Training and Testing (AFTT)
Sec. 218.80 Specified activity and specified geographical region.
(a) Regulations in this subpart apply only to the U.S. Navy for the
taking of marine mammals that occurs in the area outlined in paragraph
(b) of this section and that occurs incidental to the activities
described in paragraph (c) of this section.
(b) The taking of marine mammals by the Navy is only authorized if
it occurs within the AFTT Study Area, which is comprised of established
operating and warning areas across the North Atlantic Ocean and the
Gulf of Mexico (see Figure 1-1 in the Navy's application). In addition,
the Study Area also includes U.S. Navy pierside locations where sonar
maintenance and testing occurs within the Study Area, and areas on the
high seas that are not part of the range complexes, where training and
testing may occur during vessel transit.
(c) The taking of marine mammals by the Navy is only authorized if
it occurs incidental to the following activities:
(1) Active Acoustic Sources Used During Annual Training:
(i) Mid-frequency (MF) Source Classes:
(A) MF1--an average of 9,844 hours per year.
(B) MF1K--an average of 163 hours per year.
(C) MF2--an average of 3,150 hours per year.
(D) MF2K--an average of 61 hours per year.
(E) MF3--an average of 2,058 hours per year.
(F) MF4--an average of 927 hours per year.
(G) MF5--an average of 14,556 sonobuoys per year.
(H) MF11--an average of 800 hours per year.
(I) MF12--an average of 687 hours per year.
(ii) High-frequency (HF) and Very High-frequency (VHF) Source Classes:
(A) HF1--an average of 1,676 hours per year.
(B) HF4--an average of 8,464 hours per year.
(iii) Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW) Source Classes:
(A) ASW1--an average of 128 hours per year.
(B) ASW2--an average of 2,620 sonobuoys per year.
(C) ASW3--an average of 13,586 hours per year.
(D) ASW4--an average of 1,365 devices per year.
(iv) Torpedoes (TORP) Source Classes:
(A) TORP1--an average of 54 torpedoes per year.
(B) TORP2--an average of 80 torpedoes year.
(2) Active Acoustic Sources Used During Annual Testing:
(i) LF:
(A) LF4--an average of 254 hours per year.
(B) LF5--an average of 370 hours per year.
(ii) MF:
(A) MF1--an average of 220 hours per year.
(B) MF1K--an average of 19 hours per year.
(C) MF2--an average of 36 hours per year.
(D) MF3--an average of 434 hours per year.
(E) MF4--an average of 776 hours per year.
(F) MF5--an average of 4,184 sonobuoys per year.
(G) MF6--an average of 303 items per year.
(H) MF8--an average of 90 hours per year.
(I) MF9--an average of 13,034 hours per year.
(J) MF10--an average of 1,067 hours per year.
(K) MF12--an average of 144 hours per year.
(iii) HF and VHF:
(A) HF1--an average of 1,243 hours per year.
(B) HF3--an average of 384 hours per year.
(C) HF4--an average of 5,572 hours per year.
(D) HF5--an average of 1,206 hours per year.
(E) HF6--an average of 1,974 hours per year.
(F) HF7--an average of 366 hours per year.
(iv) ASW:
(A) ASW1--an average of 96 hours per year.
(B) ASW2--an average of 2,743 sonobuoys per year.
(C) ASW2--an average of 274 hours per year.
(D) ASW3--an average of 948 hours per year.
(E) ASW4--an average of 483 devices per year.
(v) TORP:
(A) TORP1--an average of 581 torpedoes per year.
(B) TORP2--an average of 521 torpedoes per year.
(vi) Acoustic Modems (M):
(A) M3--an average of 461 hours per year.
(B) [Reserved]
(vii) Swimmer Detection Sonar (SD):
(A) SD1 and SD2--an average of 230 hours per year.
(B) [Reserved]
(viii) Forward Looking Sonar (FLS):
(A) FLS2 and FLS3--an average of 365 hours per year.
(B) [Reserved]
(ix) Synthetic Aperture Sonar (SAS):
(A) SAS1--an average of 6 hours per year.
(B) SAS2--an average of 3,424 hours per year.
(3) Explosive Sources Used During Annual Training:
(i) Explosive Classes:
(A) E1 (0.1 to 0.25 lb NEW)--an average of 124,552 detonations per
year.
(B) E2 (0.26 to 0.5 lb NEW)--an average of 856 detonations per
year.
(C) E3 (>0.5 to 2.5 lb NEW)--an average of 3,132 detonations per
year.
(D) E4 (>2.5 to 5 lb NEW)--an average of 2,190 detonations per
year.
(E) E5 (>5 to 10 lb NEW)--an average of 14,370 detonations per
year.
(F) E6 (>10 to 20 lb NEW)--an average
[[Page 73066]]
of 500 detonations per year.
(G) E7 (>20 to 60 lb NEW)--an average of 322 detonations per year.
(H) E8 (>60 to 100 lb NEW)--an average of 77 detonations per year.
(I) E9 (>100 to 250 lb NEW)--an average of 2 detonations per year.
(J) E10 (>250 to 500 lb NEW)--an average of 8 detonations per year.
(K) E11 (>500 to 650 lb NEW)--an average of 1 detonations per year.
(L) E12 (>650 to 1,000 lb NEW)--an average of 133 detonations per
year.
(ii) [Reserved]
(4) Explosive Sources Used During Annual Testing:
(i) Explosive Classes:
(A) E1 (0.1 to 0.25 lb NEW)--an average of 25,501 detonations per
year.
(B) E2 (0.26 to 0.5 lb NEW)--an average of 0 detonations per year.
(C) E3 (>0.5 to 2.5 lb NEW)--an average of 2,912 detonations per
year.
(D) E4 (>2.5 to 5 lb NEW)--an average of 1,432 detonations per
year.
(E) E5 (>5 to 10 lb NEW)--an average of 495 detonations per year.
(F) E6 (>10 to 20 lb NEW)--an average of 54 detonations per year.
(G) E7 >20 to 60 lb NEW)--an average of 0 detonations per year.
(H) E8 (>60 to 100 lb NEW)--an average of 11 detonations per year.
(I) E9 (>100 to 250 lb NEW)--an average of 0 detonations per year.
(J) E10 (>250 to 500 lb NEW)--an average of 10 detonations per
year.
(K) E11 (>500 to 650 lb NEW)--an average of 27 detonations per
year.
(L) E12 (>650 to 1,000 lb NEW)--an average of 0 detonations per
year.
(M) E13 (>1,000 to 1,740 lb NEW)--an average of 0 detonations per
year.
(N) E14 (>1,714 to 3,625 lb NEW)--an average of 4 detonations per
year.
(ii) [Reserved]
(5) Active Acoustic Source Used During Non-Annual Training:
(i) HF4--an average of 192 hours.
(ii) [Reserved]
(6) Active Acoustic Sources Used During Non-Annual Testing:
(i) LF5--an average of 240 hours.
(ii) MF9--an average of 480 hours.
(iii) HF5--an average of 240 hours.
(iv) HF6--an average of 720 hours.
(v) HF7--an average of 240 hours.
(vi) FLS2 and FLS3--an average of 240 hours.
(vii) SAS2--an average of 720 hours.
(7) Explosive Sources Used During Non-Annual Training:
(i) E2 (0.26 to 0.5 lbs NEW)--an average of 2.
(ii) E4 (2.6 to 5 lbs NEW)--an average of 2.
(8) Explosive Sources Used During Non-Annual Testing:
(i) E1 (0.1 to 0.25 lbs NEW)--an average of 600.
(ii) E16 (7,251 to 14,500 lbs NEW)--an average of 12.
(iii) E17 (14,501 to 58,000 lbs NEW)--an average of 4.
Sec. 218.81 Effective dates and definitions.
(a) Regulations are effective December 3, 2013 and applicable to
the Navy November 14, 2013 through November 13, 2018.
(b) The following definitions are utilized in these regulations:
(1) Uncommon Stranding Event (USE)--A stranding event that takes
place within an OPAREA where a major training event (MTE) occurs and
involves any one of the following:
(i) Two or more individuals of any cetacean species (not including
mother/calf pairs), unless of species of concern listed in Sec.
218.81(b)(1)(ii) found dead or live on shore within a 2-day period and
occurring within 30 miles of one another.
(ii) A single individual or mother/calf pair of any of the
following marine mammals of concern: beaked whale of any species, Kogia
spp., Risso's dolphin, melon-headed whale, pilot whale, North Atlantic
right whale, humpback whale, sperm whale, blue whale, fin whale, or sei
whale.
(iii) A group of two or more cetaceans of any species exhibiting
indicators of distress.
(2) Shutdown--The cessation of MFAS/HFAS operation or detonation of
explosives within 14 nautical miles of any live, in the water, animal
involved in a USE.
Sec. 218.82 Permissible methods of taking.
(a) Under Letters of Authorization (LOAs) issued pursuant to Sec.
218.87, the Holder of the Letter of Authorization may incidentally, but
not intentionally, take marine mammals within the area described in
Sec. 218.80, provided the activity is in compliance with all terms,
conditions, and requirements of these regulations and the appropriate
LOA.
(b) The incidental take of marine mammals under the activities
identified in Sec. 218.80(c) is limited to the following species, by
the identified method of take:
(1) Harassment (Level A and Level B) for all Training and Testing
Activities:
(i) Mysticetes:
(A) Blue whale (Balaenoptera musculus)--817.
(B) Bryde's whale (Balaenoptera edeni)--5,079.
(C) Fin whale (Balaenoptera physalus)--25,239.
(D) North Atlantic right whale (Eubalaena glacialis)--955.
(E) Humpback whale (Megaptera novaeangliae)--9,196.
(F) Minke whale (Balaenoptera acutorostrata)--336,623.
(G) Sei whale (Balaenoptera borealis)--54,766.
(ii) Odontocetes:
(A) Atlantic spotted dolphin (Stenella frontalis)--994,221.
(B) Atlantic white-sided dolphin (Lagenorhynchus acutus)--206,144.
(C) Blainville's beaked whale (Mesoplodon densirostris)--164,454.
(D) Bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops truncatus)--1,570,031.
(E) Clymene dolphin (Stenella clymene)--108,199.
(F) Common dolphin (Delphinus spp.)--2,562,969.
(G) Cuvier's beaked whale (Ziphius cavirostris)--204,945.
(H) False killer whale (Pseudorca crassidens)--4,062.
(I) Fraser's dolphin (Lagenodelphis hosei)--11,816.
(J) Gervais' beaked whale (Mesoplodon europaeus)--164,663.
(K) Harbor porpoise (Phocoena phocoena)--11,072,415.
(L) Killer whale (Orcinus orca)--77,448.
(M) Kogia spp.--31,095.
(N) Melon-headed whale (Peponocephala electra)--111,360.
(O) Northern bottlenose whale (Hyperoodon ampullatus)--152,201.
(P) Pantropical spotted dolphin (Stenella attenuata)--393,316.
(Q) Pilot whale (Globicephala spp.)--581,032.
(R) Pygmy killer whale (Feresa attenuata)--8,041.
(S) Risso's dolphin (Grampus griseus)--1,306,404.
(T) Rough-toothed dolphin (Steno bredanensis)--5,911.
(U) Sowerby's beaked whale (Mesoplodon bidens)--63,156.
(V) Sperm whale (Physeter macrocephalus)--82,282.
(W) Spinner dolphin (Stenella longirostris)--115,310.
(X) Striped dolphin (Stenella coerulealba)--1,222,149.
(Y) True's beaked whale (Mesoplodon mirus)--99,123.
(Z) White-beaked dolphin (Lagenorhynchus albirostris)--16,400.
(iii) Pinnipeds:
(A) Gray seal (Halichoerus grypus)--14,511.
(B) Harbor seal (Phoca vitulina)--39,519.
(C) Harp seal (Pagophilus
[[Page 73067]]
groenlanica)--16,319.
(D) Hooded seal (Cystophora cristata)--1,472.
(E) Ringed seal (Pusa hispida)--1,795.
(F) Bearded seal (Erignathus barbatus)--161.
(2) Mortality (or lesser Level A injury) for all Training and Testing
Activities:
(i) No more than 140 mortalities applicable to any small odontocete
species from an impulse source.
(ii) No more than 10 beaked whale mortalities (2 per year).
(iii) No more than 11 large whale mortalities from vessel strike.
(iv) No more than 25 mortalities (no more than 20 in any given
year) applicable to any small odontocete species from Ship Shock
trials.
Sec. 218.83 Prohibitions.
Notwithstanding takings contemplated in Sec. 218.82 and authorized
by an LOA issued under Sec. Sec. 216.106 of this chapter and 218.87,
no person in connection with the activities described in Sec. 218.80
may:
(a) Take any marine mammal not specified in Sec. 218.82(c);
(b) Take any marine mammal specified in Sec. 218.82(c) other than
by incidental take as specified in Sec. 218.82(c);
(c) Take a marine mammal specified in Sec. 218.82(c) if such
taking results in more than a negligible impact on the species or
stocks of such marine mammal; or
(d) Violate, or fail to comply with, the terms, conditions, and
requirements of these regulations or an LOA issued under Sec. Sec.
216.106 of this chapter and 218.87.
Sec. 218.84 Mitigation.
(a) When conducting training and testing activities, as identified
in Sec. 218.80, the mitigation measures contained in the LOA issued
under Sec. Sec. 216.106 and 218.87 must be implemented. These
mitigation measures include, but are not limited to:
(1) Lookouts. The following are protective measures concerning the
use of lookouts.
(i) Lookouts positioned on ships will be dedicated solely to
diligent observation of the air and surface of the water. Their
observation objectives will include, but are not limited to, detecting
the presence of biological resources and recreational or fishing boats,
observing mitigation zones, and monitoring for vessel and personnel
safety concerns.
(ii) Lookouts positioned in aircraft or on small boats will, to the
maximum extent practicable and consistent with aircraft and boat safety
and training and testing requirements, comply with the observation
objectives described in Sec. 218.84 (a)(1)(i).
(iii) Lookout measures for non-impulsive sound:
(A) With the exception of ships less than 65 ft (20 m) in length
and ships that are minimally manned, ships using low-frequency or hull-
mounted mid-frequency active sonar sources associated with anti-
submarine warfare and mine warfare activities at sea will have two
Lookouts at the forward position of the ship. For the purposes of this
rule, low-frequency active sonar does not include surveillance towed
array sensor system low-frequency active sonar.
(B) While using low-frequency or hull-mounted mid-frequency active
sonar sources associated with anti-submarine warfare and mine warfare
activities at sea, vessels less than 65 ft (20 m) in length and ships
that are minimally manned will have one Lookout at the forward position
of the vessel due to space and manning restrictions.
(C) Ships conducting active sonar activities while moored or at
anchor (including pierside testing or maintenance) will maintain one
Lookout.
(D) Surface ships or aircraft conducting high-frequency or non-
hull-mounted mid-frequency active sonar activities associated with
anti-submarine warfare and mine warfare activities at sea will have one
Lookout.
(E) Surface ships or aircraft conducting high-frequency active
sonar activities associated with anti-submarine warfare and mine
warfare activities at sea will have one Lookout.
(iv) Lookout measures for explosives and impulsive sound:
(A) Aircraft conducting activities with IEER sonobuoys and
explosive sonobuoys with 0.6 to 2.5 lbs net explosive weight will have
one Lookout.
(B) Surface vessels conducting anti-swimmer grenade activities will
have one Lookout.
(C) During general mine countermeasure and neutralization
activities using up to a 500-lb net explosive weight detonation (bin
E10 and below), vessels greater than 200 ft will have two Lookouts,
while vessels less than 200 ft or aircraft will have one Lookout.
(D) General mine countermeasure and neutralization activities using
a 501 to 650-lb net explosive weight detonation (bin E11), will have
two Lookouts. One Lookout will be positioned in an aircraft and one in
a support vessel.
(E) Mine neutralization activities involving diver-placed charges
using up to 100-lb net explosive weight detonation (E8) conducted with
a positive control device will have a total of two Lookouts. One
Lookout will be positioned in each of the two support vessels, or one
in a support vessel and one in a helicopter. All divers placing the
charges on mines will support the Lookouts while performing their
regular duties. The divers placing the charges on mines will report all
marine mammal sightings to their dive support vessel or Range Safety
Officer.
(F) When mine neutralization activities using diver-placed charges
with up to a 20-lb net explosive weight detonation (bin E6) are
conducted with a time-delay firing device, four Lookouts will be used.
Two Lookouts will be positioned in each of two small rigid hull
inflatable boats. In addition, when aircraft are used, the pilot or
member of the aircrew will serve as an additional Lookout. The divers
placing the charges on mines will report all marine mammal sightings to
their dive support vessel or Range Safety Officer.
(G) Surface vessels conducting line charge testing will have one
Lookout.
(H) Surface vessels or aircraft conducting small- and medium-
caliber gunnery exercises against a surface target will have one
Lookout.
(I) Surface vessels conducting large-caliber gunnery exercises
against a surface target will have one Lookout.
(J) Aircraft conducting missile exercises (including rockets)
against surface targets will have one Lookout.
(K) Aircraft conducting bombing exercises will have one Lookout.
(L) During explosive torpedo testing, one Lookout will be used and
positioned in an aircraft.
(M) During sinking exercises, two Lookouts will be used. One
Lookout will be positioned in an aircraft and one on a surface vessel.
(N) Prior to commencing, during, and after completion of ship shock
trials using up to 10,000 lb. HBX charges, the Navy will have at least
10 Lookouts or trained marine species observers (or a combination
thereof) positioned either in an aircraft or on multiple vessels (i.e.,
a Marine Animal Response Team boat and the test ship). If aircraft are
used, there will be Lookouts or trained marine species observers
positioned in an aircraft and positioned on multiple vessels. If
vessels are the only platform, a sufficient number of additional
Lookouts or trained marine species observers will be used to provide
visual observation of the mitigation zone comparable to that achieved
by aerial surveys.''
(O) Prior to commencing, during, and after completion of ship shock
trials
[[Page 73068]]
using up to 40,000 lb. HBX charges, the Navy will have at least 10
Lookouts or trained marine species observers (or a combination thereof)
positioned in an aircraft and on multiple vessels (i.e., a Marine
Animal Response Team boat and the test ship).
(P) Each surface vessel supporting at-sea explosive testing will
have at least one lookout.
(Q) Surface vessels conducting explosive and non-explosive large-
caliber gunnery exercises will have one lookout. This may be the same
lookout used during large-caliber gunnery exercises with a surface
target as described in Sec. 218.84(a)(1)(iv)(I) and (a)(1)(v)(C).
(v) Lookout measures for physical strike and disturbance:
(A) While underway, surface ships will have at least one lookout.
(B) During activities using towed in-water devices that are towed
from a manned platform, one lookout will be used.
(C) Activities involving non-explosive practice munitions (e.g.,
small-, medium-, and large-caliber gunnery exercises) using a surface
target will have one lookout.
(D) During activities involving non-explosive bombing exercises,
one lookout will be used.
(E) During activities involving non-explosive missile exercises
(including rockets) using a surface target, one lookout will be used.
(2) Mitigation Zones. The following are protective measures
concerning the implementation of mitigation zones.
(i) Mitigation zones will be measured as the radius from a source
and represent a distance to be monitored.
(ii) Visual detections of marine mammals within a mitigation zone
will be communicated immediately to a watch station for information
dissemination and appropriate action.
(iii) Mitigation zones for non-impulsive sound:
(A) When marine mammals are visually detected, the Navy shall
ensure that low-frequency and hull-mounted mid-frequency active sonar
transmission levels are limited to at least 6 dB below normal operating
levels, for sources that can be powered down, if any detected marine
mammals are within 1,000 yd (914 m) of the sonar dome (the bow).
(B) The Navy shall ensure that low-frequency and hull-mounted mid-
frequency active sonar transmissions are limited to at least 10 dB
below the equipment's normal operating levels, for sources that can be
powered down, if any detected marine mammals are within 500 yd (457 m)
of the sonar dome.
(C) The Navy shall ensure that low-frequency and hull-mounted mid-
frequency active sonar transmissions are ceased, for sources that can
be turned off during the activity, if any visually detected marine
mammals are within 200 yd (183 m) of the sonar dome. Transmissions will
not resume until one of the following conditions is met: the animal is
observed exiting the mitigation zone, the animal is thought to have
exited the mitigation zone based on a determination of its course and
speed and the relative motion between the animal and the source, the
mitigation zone has been clear from any additional sightings for a
period of 30 min., the ship has transited more than 2,000 yd (1.8 km)
beyond the location of the last sighting, or the ship concludes that
dolphins are deliberately closing in on the ship to ride the ship's bow
wave (and there are no other marine mammal sightings within the
mitigation zone). Active transmission may resume when dolphins are bow
riding because they are out of the main transmission axis of the active
sonar while in the shallow-wave area of the bow.
(D) The Navy shall ensure that low-frequency and hull-mounted mid-
frequency active sonar transmissions are ceased, for sources that
cannot be powered down during the activity, if any visually detected
marine mammals are within 200 yd (183 m) of the source. Transmissions
will not resume until one of the following conditions is met: the
animal is observed exiting the mitigation zone, the animal is thought
to have exited the mitigation zone based on a determination of its
course and speed and the relative motion between the animal and the
source, the mitigation zone has been clear from any additional
sightings for a period of 30 min., the ship has transited more than 400
yd (366 m) beyond the location of the last sighting.
(E) When marine mammals are visually detected, the Navy shall
ensure that high-frequency and non-hull-mounted mid-frequency active
sonar transmission levels are ceased if any visually detected marine
mammals are within 200 yd (183 m) of the source. Transmissions will not
resume until one of the following conditions is met: the animal is
observed exiting the mitigation zone, the animal is thought to have
exited the mitigation zone based on a determination of its course and
speed and the relative motion between the animal and the source, the
mitigation zone has been clear from any additional sightings for a
period of 10 min. for an aircraft-deployed source, the mitigation zone
has been clear from any additional sightings for a period of 30 min.
for a vessel-deployed source, the vessel or aircraft has repositioned
itself more than 400 yd. (366 m) away from the location of the last
sighting, or the vessel concludes that dolphins are deliberately
closing in to ride the vessel's bow wave (and there are no other marine
mammal sightings within the mitigation zone).
(iv) Mitigation zones for explosive and impulsive sound:
(A) A mitigation zone with a radius of 600 yd (549 m) shall be
established for IEER sonobuoys (bin E4).
(B) A mitigation zone with a radius of 350 yd (320 m) shall be
established for explosive sonobuoys using 0.6 to 2.5 lb net explosive
weight (bin E3).
(C) A mitigation zone with a radius of 200 yd (183 m) shall be
established for anti-swimmer grenades (up to bin E2).
(D) A mitigation zone ranging from 600 yd (549 m) to 2,100 yd (1.9
km), dependent on charge size, shall be established for general mine
countermeasure and neutralization activities using positive control
firing devices. Mitigation zone distances are specified for charge size
in Table 11-2 of the Navy's application.
(E) A mitigation zone ranging from 350 yd (320 m) to 850 yd (777
m), dependent on charge size, shall be established for mine
countermeasure and neutralization activities using diver placed
positive control firing devices. Mitigation zone distances are
specified for charge size in Table 11-2 of the Navy's application.
(F) A mitigation zone with a radius of 1,000 yd (914 m) shall be
established for mine neutralization diver placed mines using time-delay
firing devices (up to bin E6).
(G) A mitigation zone with a radius of 900 yd (823 m) shall be
established for ordnance testing (line charge testing) (bin E4).
(H) A mitigation zone with a radius of 200 yd (183 m) shall be
established for small- and medium-caliber gunnery exercises with a
surface target (up to bin E2).
(I) A mitigation zone with a radius of 600 yd (549 m) shall be
established for large-caliber gunnery exercises with a surface target
(bin E5).
(J) A mitigation zone with a radius of 900 yd (823 m) shall be
established for missile exercises (including rockets) with up to 250 lb
net explosive weight and a surface target (up to bin E9).
(K) A mitigation zone with a radius of 2,000 yd (1.8 km) shall be
established for missile exercises with 251 to 500 lb net explosive
weight and a surface target (E10).
[[Page 73069]]
(L) A mitigation zone with a radius of 2,500 yd (2.3 km) shall be
established for bombing exercises (up to bin E12).
(M) A mitigation zone with a radius of 2,100 yd (1.9 km) shall be
established for torpedo (explosive) testing (up to bin E11).
(N) A mitigation zone with a radius of 2.5 nautical miles shall be
established for sinking exercises (up to bin E12).
(O) A mitigation zone with a radius of 1,600 yd (1.4 km) shall be
established for at-sea explosive testing (up to bin E5).
(P) A mitigation zone with a radius of 3.5 nautical miles shall be
established for a shock trial.
(Q) A mitigation zone with a radius of 70 yd (64 m), within 30
degrees on either side of the gun target line on the firing side of the
ship, shall be established for all explosive and non-explosive large-
caliber gunnery exercises.
(v) Mitigation zones for vessels and in-water devices:
(A) A mitigation zone of 500 yd (457 m) for observed whales and 200
yd (183 m) for all other marine mammals (except bow riding dolphins)
shall be established for all vessel movement, providing it is safe to
do so.
(B) A mitigation zone of 250 yd (229 m) for any observed marine
mammal shall be established for all towed in-water devices that are
towed from a manned platform, providing it is safe to do so.
(vi) Mitigation zones for non-explosive practice munitions:
(A) A mitigation zone of 200 yd (183 m) shall be established for
small, medium, and large caliber gunnery exercises using a surface
target.
(B) A mitigation zone of 1,000 yd (914 m) shall be established for
bombing exercises.
(C) A mitigation zone of 900 yd (823 m) shall be established for
missile exercises (including rockets) using a surface target.
(3) Protective Measures Specific to North Atlantic Right Whales:
(i) North Atlantic Right Whale Calving Habitat off the Southeast
United States.
(A) The Southeast Right Whale Mitigation Area is defined by a 5 nm
(9.3 km) buffer around the coastal waters between 31-15 N. lat. and 30-
15 N. lat. extending from the coast out 15 nm (27.8 km), and the
coastal waters between 30-15 N. lat. to 28-00 N. lat. from the coast
out to 5 nm (9.3 km).
(B) Between November 15 and April 15, the following activities are
prohibited within the Southeast Right Whale Mitigation Area:
(1) Low-frequency and hull-mounted mid-frequency active sonar
(except in Sec. 218.84(a)(3)(i)(C).
(2) High-frequency and non-hull mounted mid-frequency active sonar
(except helicopter dipping).
(3) Missile activities (explosive and non-explosive).
(4) Bombing exercises (explosive and non-explosive).
(5) Underwater detonations.
(6) Improved extended echo ranging sonobuoy exercises.
(7) Torpedo exercises (explosive).
(8) Small-, medium-, and large-caliber gunnery exercises.
(C) Between November 15 and April 15, use of the following systems
is to be minimized to the maximum extent practicable within the
Southeast Right Whale Mitigation Area:
(1) Helicopter dipping using active sonar.
(2) Low-frequency and hull-mounted mid-frequency active sonar used
for navigation training.
(3) Low-frequency and hull-mounted mid-frequency active sonar used
for object detection exercises.
(D) Prior to transiting or training or testing in the Southeast
Right Whale Mitigation Area, ships shall contact Fleet Area Control and
Surveillance Facility, Jacksonville, to obtain the latest whale
sightings and other information needed to make informed decisions
regarding safe speed and path of intended movement. Submarines shall
contact Commander, Submarine Force United States Atlantic Fleet for
similar information.
(E) The following specific mitigation measures apply to activities
occurring within the Southeast Right Whale Mitigation Area:
(1) When transiting within the Southeast Right Whale Mitigation
Area, vessels shall exercise extreme caution and proceed at a slow safe
speed. The speed shall be the slowest safe speed that is consistent
with mission, training, and operations.
(2) Speed reductions (adjustments) are required when a North
Atlantic right whale is sighted by a vessel, when the vessel is within
9 km (5 nm) of a sighting reported within the past 12 hours, or when
operating at night or during periods of poor visibility.
(3) Vessels shall avoid head-on approaches to North Atlantic right
whales(s) and shall maneuver to maintain at least 457 m (500 yd) of
separation from any observed whale if deemed safe to do so. These
requirements do not apply if a vessel's safety is threatened, such as
when a change of course would create an imminent and serious threat to
a person, vessel, or aircraft, and to the extent vessels are restricted
in their ability to maneuver.
(4) Vessels shall minimize to the extent practicable north-south
transits through the Southeast Right Whale Mitigation Area. If transit
in a north-south direction is required during training or testing
activities, the Navy shall implement the measures described in Sec.
218.84(a)(3)(i)(E)(1) through (3).
(5) Ship, surfaced subs, and aircraft shall report any North
Atlantic right whale sightings to Fleet Area Control and Surveillance
Facility, Jacksonville, by the most convenient and fastest means. The
sighting report shall include the time, latitude/longitude, direction
of movement and number and description of whale (i.e., adult/calf).
(ii) North Atlantic Right Whale Foraging Habitat off the Northeast
United States:
(A) The Northeast Right Whale Mitigation Area consists of two
areas: the Great South Channel and Cape Cod Bay. The Great South
Channel is defined by the following coordinates: 41-40 N. Lat., 69-45
W. Long.; 41-00 N. Lat., 69-05 W. Long.; 41-38 N. Lat., 68-13 W. Long.;
and 42-10 N. Lat., 68-31 W. Long. Cape Cod Bay is defined by the
following coordinates: 42-04.8 N. Lat., 70-10 W. Long.; 42-10 N. Lat.,
70-15 W. Long.; 42-12 N. Lat., 70-30 W. Long.; 41-46.8 N. Lat., 70-30
W. Long.; and on the south and east by the interior shoreline of Cape
Cod.
(B) Year-round, the following activities are prohibited within the
Northeast Right Whale Mitigation Area:
(1) Improved extended echo ranging sonobuoy exercises in or within
5.6 km (3 nm) of the mitigation area.
(2) Bombing exercises (explosive and non-explosive).
(3) Underwater detonations.
(4) Torpedo exercises (explosive).
(C) Year-round, use of the following systems is to be minimized to
the maximum extent practicable within the Northeast Right Whale
Mitigation Area:
(1) Low-frequency and hull-mounted mid-frequency active sonar.
(2) High-frequency and non-hull mounted mid-frequency active sonar,
including helicopter dipping.
(D) Prior to transiting or training in the Northeast Right Whale
Mitigation Area, ships and submarines shall contact the Northeast Right
Whale Sighting Advisory System to obtain the latest whale sightings and
other information needed to make informed decisions regarding safe
speed and path of intended movement.
(E) The following specific mitigation measures apply to activities
occurring within the Northeast Right Whale Mitigation Area:
(1) When transiting within the Northeast Right Whale Mitigation
Area,
[[Page 73070]]
vessels shall exercise extreme caution and proceed at a slow safe
speed. The speed shall be the slowest safe speed that is consistent
with mission, training, and operations.
(2) Speed reductions (adjustments) are required when a North
Atlantic right whale is sighted by a vessel, when the vessel is within
9 km (5 nm) of a sighting reported within the past week, or when
operating at night or during periods of poor visibility.
(3) When conducting TORPEXs, the following additional speed
restrictions shall be required: during transit, surface vessels and
submarines shall maintain a speed of no more than 19 km/hour (10
knots); during torpedo firing exercises, vessel speeds should, where
feasible, not exceed 10 knots; when a submarine is used as a target,
vessel speeds should, where feasible, not exceed 18 knots; when surface
vessels are used as targets, vessels may exceed 18 knots for a short
period of time (e.g., 10-15 minutes).
(4) Vessels shall avoid head-on approaches to North Atlantic right
whales(s) and shall maneuver to maintain at least 457 m (500 yd) of
separation from any observed whale if deemed safe to do so. These
requirements do not apply if a vessel's safety is threatened, such as
when a change of course would create an imminent and serious threat to
a person, vessel, or aircraft, and to the extent vessels are restricted
in their ability to maneuver.
(5) Non-explosive torpedo testing shall be conducted during
daylight hours only in Beaufort sea states of 3 or less to increase the
probability of marine mammal detection.
(6) Non-explosive torpedo testing activities shall not commence if
concentrations of floating vegetation (Sargassum or kelp patties) are
observed in the vicinity.
(7) Non-explosive torpedo testing activities shall cease if a
marine mammal is visually detected within the immediate vicinity of the
activity. The tests may recommence when any one of the following
conditions are met: the animal is observed exiting the immediate
vicinity of the activity; the animal is thought to have exited the
immediate vicinity based on a determination of its course and speed and
the relative motion between the animal and the source; or the immediate
vicinity of the activity has been clear from any additional sightings
for a period of 30 minutes.
(iii) North Atlantic Right Whale Mid-Atlantic Migration Corridor:
(A) The Mid-Atlantic Right Whale Mitigation Area consists of the
following areas:
(1) Block Island Sound: the area bounded by 40-51-53.7 N. Lat., 70-
36-44.9 W. Long.; 41-20-14.1 N. Lat., 70-49-44.1 W. Long; 41-4-16.7 N.
Lat., 71-51-21 W. Long.; 41-35-56.5 N. Lat., 71-38-25.1 W. Long; then
back to first set of coordinates.
(2) New York and New Jersey: within a 37 km (20 nm) radius of the
following (as measured seaward from the COLREGS lines) 40-29-42.2 N.
Lat., 73-55-57.6 W. Long.
(3) Delaware Bay: within a 37 km (20 nm) radius of the following
(as measured seaward from the COLREGS lines) 38-52-27.4 N. Lat., 75-01-
32.1 W. Long.
(4) Chesapeake Bay: within a 37 km (20 nm) radius of the following
(as measured seaward from the COLREGS lines) 37-00-36.9 N. Lat., 75-57-
50.5 W. Long.
(5) Morehead City, North Carolina: within a 37 km (20 nm) radius of
the following (as measured seaward from the COLREGS lines) 34-41-32 N.
Lat., 76-40-08.3 W. Long.
(6) Wilmington, North Carolina, through South Carolina, and to
Brunswick, Georgia: within a continuous area 37 km (20 nm) from shore
and west back to shore bounded by 34-10-30 N. Lat., 77-49-12 W. Long.;
33-56-42 N. Lat., 77-31-30 W. Long.; 33-36-30 N. Lat., 77-47-06 W.
Long.; 33-28-24 N. Lat., 78-32-30 W. Long.; 32-59-06 N. Lat., 78-50-18
W. Long.; 31-50 N. Lat., 80-33-12 W. Long.; 31-27 N. Lat., 80-51-36 W.
Long.
(B) Between November 1 and April 30, when transiting within the
Mid-Atlantic Right Whale Mitigation Area, vessels shall exercise
extreme caution and proceed at a slow safe speed. The speed shall be
the slowest safe speed that is consistent with mission, training, and
operations.
(iv) Planning Awareness Areas:
(A) The Navy shall avoid planning major training exercises
involving the use of active sonar in the specified planning awareness
areas (PAAs--see Figure 5.3-1 in the AFTT FEIS/OEIS) where feasible.
Should national security require the conduct of more than four major
exercises (C2X, JTFEX, or similar scale event) in these areas (meaning
all or a portion of the exercise) per year, or more than one within the
Gulf of Mexico areas per year, the Navy shall provide NMFS with prior
notification and include the information in any associated after-action
or monitoring reports.
(4) Stranding Response Plan:
(i) The Navy shall abide by the current Stranding Response Plan for
Major Navy Training Exercises in the Study Area, to include the
following measures:
(A) Shutdown Procedures--When an Uncommon Stranding Event (USE--
defined in Sec. 218.71 (b)(1)) occurs during a Major Training Exercise
(MTE) in the AFTT Study Area, the Navy shall implement the procedures
described. in paragraphs (a)(4)(i)(A)(1) through (4) of this section.
(1) The Navy shall implement a shutdown (as defined Sec.
218.81(b)(2)) when advised by a NMFS Office of Protected Resources
Headquarters Senior Official designated in the AFTT Study Area
Stranding Communication Protocol that a USE involving live animals has
been identified and that at least one live animal is located in the
water. NMFS and the Navy will maintain a dialogue, as needed, regarding
the identification of the USE and the potential need to implement
shutdown procedures.
(2) Any shutdown in a given area shall remain in effect in that
area until NMFS advises the Navy that the subject(s) of the USE at that
area die or are euthanized, or that all live animals involved in the
USE at that area have left the area (either of their own volition or
herded).
(3) If the Navy finds an injured or dead animal floating at sea
during an MTE, the Navy shall notify NMFS immediately or as soon as
operational security considerations allow. The Navy shall provide NMFS
with species or description of the animal(s), the condition of the
animal(s), including carcass condition if the animal(s) is/are dead,
location, time of first discovery, observed behavior (if alive), and
photo or video (if available). Based on the information provided, NFMS
will determine if, and advise the Navy whether a modified shutdown is
appropriate on a case-by-case basis.
(4) In the event, following a USE, that qualified individuals are
attempting to herd animals back out to the open ocean and animals are
not willing to leave, or animals are seen repeatedly heading for the
open ocean but turning back to shore, NMFS and the Navy shall
coordinate (including an investigation of other potential anthropogenic
stressors in the area) to determine if the proximity of mid-frequency
active sonar training activities or explosive detonations, though
farther than 14 nautical miles from the distressed animal(s), is likely
contributing to the animals' refusal to return to the open water. If
so, NMFS and the Navy will further coordinate to determine what
measures are necessary to improve the probability that the animals will
return
[[Page 73071]]
to open water and implement those measures as appropriate.
(B) Within 72 hours of NMFS notifying the Navy of the presence of a
USE, the Navy shall provide available information to NMFS (per the AFTT
Study Area Communication Protocol) regarding the location, number and
types of acoustic/explosive sources, direction and speed of units using
mid-frequency active sonar, and marine mammal sightings information
associated with training activities occurring within 80 nautical miles
(148 km) and 72 hours prior to the USE event. Information not initially
available regarding the 80-nautical miles (148-km), 72-hour period
prior to the event will be provided as soon as it becomes available.
The Navy will provide NMFS investigative teams with additional relevant
unclassified information as requested, if available.
(ii) [Reserved]
Sec. 218.85 Requirements for monitoring and reporting.
(a) As outlined in the AFTT Study Area Stranding Communication
Plan, the Holder of the Authorization must notify NMFS immediately (or
as soon as clearance procedures allow) if the specified activity
identified in Sec. 218.80 is thought to have resulted in the mortality
or injury of any marine mammals, or in any take of marine mammals not
identified in Sec. 218.81.
(b) The Holder of the LOA must conduct all monitoring and required
reporting under the LOA, including abiding by the AFTT Monitoring Plan.
(c) General Notification of Injured or Dead Marine Mammals--Navy
personnel shall ensure that NMFS (regional stranding coordinator) is
notified immediately (or as soon as clearance procedures allow) if an
injured or dead marine mammal is found during or shortly after, and in
the vicinity of a Navy training or testing activity utilizing mid- or
high-frequency active sonar or underwater explosive detonations. The
Navy shall provide NMFS with species identification or description of
the animal(s), the condition of the animal(s) (including carcass
condition if the animal is dead), location, time of first discovery,
observed behaviors (if alive), and photo or video (if available). The
Navy shall consult the Stranding Response Plan to obtain more specific
reporting requirements for specific circumstances.
(d) Annual AFTT Monitoring Plan Report--The Navy shall submit an
annual report of the AFTT Monitoring Plan on April 1 of each year
describing the implementation and results from the previous calendar
year. Data collection methods will be standardized across range
complexes and study areas to allow for comparison in different
geographic locations. Although additional information will be gathered,
the protected species observers collecting marine mammal data pursuant
to the AFTT Monitoring Plan shall, at a minimum, provide the same
marine mammal observation data required in Sec. 218.85. As an
alternative, the Navy may submit a multi-Range Complex annual
Monitoring Plan report to fulfill this requirement. Such a report would
describe progress of knowledge made with respect to monitoring plan
study questions across all Navy ranges associated with the ICMP.
Similar study questions shall be treated together so that progress on
each topic shall be summarized across all Navy ranges. The report need
not include analyses and content that do not provide direct assessment
of cumulative progress on the monitoring plan study questions.
(e) Vessel Strike--In the event that a Navy vessel strikes a whale,
the Navy shall do the following:
(1) Immediately report to NMFS (pursuant to the established
Communication Protocol) the:
(i) Species identification if known;
(ii) Location (latitude/longitude) of the animal (or location of
the strike if the animal has disappeared);
(iii) Whether the animal is alive or dead (or unknown); and
(iv) The time of the strike.
(2) As soon as feasible, the Navy shall report to or provide to
NMFS, the:
(i) Size, length, and description (critical if species is not
known) of animal;
(ii) An estimate of the injury status (e.g., dead, injured but
alive, injured and moving, blood or tissue observed in the water,
status unknown, disappeared, etc.);
(iii) Description of the behavior of the whale during event,
immediately after the strike, and following the strike (until the
report is made or the animal is no long sighted);
(iv) Vessel class/type and operation status;
(v) Vessel length
(vi) Vessel speed and heading; and
(vii) To the best extent possible, obtain
(3) Within 2 weeks of the strike, provide NMFS:
(i) A detailed description of the specific actions of the vessel in
the 30-minute timeframe immediately preceding the strike, during the
event, and immediately after the strike (e.g., the speed and changes in
speed, the direction and changes in the direction, other maneuvers,
sonar use, etc., if not classified); and
(ii) A narrative description of marine mammal sightings during the
event and immediately after, and any information as to sightings prior
to the strike, if available; and
(iii) Use established Navy shipboard procedures to make a camera
available to attempt to capture photographs following a ship strike.
(f) Annual AFTT Exercise and Testing Report--The Navy shall submit
``quick-look'' reports detailing the status of authorized sound sources
within 21 days after the end of the annual authorization cycle. The
Navy shall submit detailed reports 3 months after the anniversary of
the date of issuance of the LOA. The annual reports shall contain
information on Major Training Exercises (MTE), Sinking Exercise
(SINKEX) events, and a summary of sound sources used, as described in
paragraphs (f)(2)(i)(A) through (C) of this section. The analysis in
the reports will be based on the accumulation of data from the current
year's report and data collected from previous reports. These reports
shall contain information identified in paragraphs (e)(1) through (5)
of this section.
(1) Major Training Exercises/SINKEX--
(i) This section shall contain the reporting requirements for
Coordinated and Strike Group exercises and SINKEX. Coordinated and
Strike Group Major Training Exercises:
(A) Sustainment Exercise (SUSTAINEX).
(B) Integrated ASW Course (IAC).
(C) Joint Task Force Exercises (JTFEX).
(D) Composite Training Unit Exercises (COMPTUEX).
(ii) Exercise information for each MTE:
(A) Exercise designator.
(B) Date that exercise began and ended.
(C) Location (operating area).
(D) Number of items or hours (per the LOA) of each sound source bin
(impulsive and non-impulsive) used in the exercise.
(E) Number and types of vessels, aircraft, etc., participating in
exercise.
(F) Individual marine mammal sighting info for each sighting for
each MTE:
(1) Date/time/location of sighting.
(2) Species (if not possible, indication of whale/dolphin/
pinniped).
(3) Number of individuals.
(4) Initial detection sensor.
(5) Indication of specific type of platform the observation was
made from (including, for example, what type of surface vessel or
testing platform).
[[Page 73072]]
(6) Length of time observers maintained visual contact with marine
mammal(s).
(7) Sea state.
(8) Visibility.
(9) Sound source in use at the time of sighting.
(10) Indication of whether animal is <200 yd, 200-500 yd, 500-1,000
yd, 1,000-2,000 yd, or >2,000 yd from sound source.
(11) Mitigation implementation--whether operation of sonar sensor
was delayed, or sonar was powered or shut down, and how long the delay
was; or whether navigation was changed or delayed.
(12) If source in use is a hull-mounted sonar, relative bearing of
animal from ship and estimation of animal's motion relative to ship
(opening, closing, parallel).
(13) Observed behavior--watchstanders shall report, in plain
language and without trying to categorize in any way, the observed
behavior of the animal(s) (such as closing to bow ride, paralleling
course/speed, floating on surface and not swimming, etc.), and if any
calves present.
(G) An evaluation (based on data gathered during all of the MTEs)
of the effectiveness of mitigation measures designed to minimize the
received level to which marine mammals may be exposed. This evaluation
shall identify the specific observations that support any conclusions
the Navy reaches about the effectiveness of the mitigation.
(iii) Exercise information for each SINKEX:
(A) List of the vessels and aircraft involved in the SINKEX.
(B) Location (operating area).
(C) Chronological list of events with times, including time of
sunrise and sunset, start and stop time of all marine species surveys
that occur before, during, and after the SINKEX, and ordnance used.
(D) Visibility and/or weather conditions, wind speed, cloud cover,
etc. throughout exercise if it changes.
(E) Aircraft used in the surveys, flight altitude, and flight speed
and the area covered by each of the surveys, given in coordinates, map,
or square miles.
(F) Passive acoustic monitoring details (number of sonobuoys,
detections of biologic activity, etc.).
(G) Individual marine mammal sighting info for each sighting that
required mitigation to be implemented:
(1) Date/time/location of sighting.
(2) Species (if not possible, indication of whale/dolphin/
pinniped).
(3) Number of individuals.
(4) Initial detection sensor.
(5) Indication of specific type of platform the observation was
made from (including, for example what type of surface vessel or
platform).
(6) Length of time observers maintained visual contact with marine
mammal(s).
(7) Sea state.
(8) Visibility.
(9) Indication of whether animal is <200 yd, 200-500 yd, 500-1,000
yd, 1,000-2,000 yd, or >2,000 yd from the target.
(10) Mitigation implementation--whether the SINKEX was stopped or
delayed and length of delay.
(11) Observed behavior--watchstanders shall report, in plain
language and without trying to categorize in any way, the observed
behavior of the animals (such as animal closing to bow ride,
paralleling course/speed, floating on surface and not swimming, etc.),
and if any calves present.
(H) List of the ordnance used throughout the SINKEX and net
explosive weight (NEW) of each weapon and the combined ordnance NEW.
(2) Summary of Sources Used.
(i) This section shall include the following information summarized
from the authorized sound sources used in all training and testing
events:
(A) Total annual hours or quantity (per the LOA) of each bin of
sonar or other non-impulsive source.
(B) Total annual expended/detonated rounds (missiles, bombs, etc.)
for each explosive bin.
(C) Improved Extended Echo-Ranging System (IEER)/sonobuoy summary,
including:
(1) Total expended/detonated rounds (buoys).
(2) Total number of self-scuttled IEER rounds.
(3) Sonar Exercise Notification--The Navy shall submit to NMFS
(specific contact information to be provided in LOA) either an
electronic (preferably) or verbal report within fifteen calendar days
after the completion of any major exercise indicating:
(i) Location of the exercise.
(ii) Beginning and end dates of the exercise.
(iii) Type of exercise.
(4) Geographic Information Presentation--The reports shall present
an annual (and seasonal, where practical) depiction of training
exercises and testing bin usage geographically across the Study Area.
(g) 5-yr Close-out Exercise and Testing Report--This report will be
included as part of the 2019 annual exercise or testing report. This
report will provide the annual totals for each sound source bin with a
comparison to the annual allowance and the 5-year total for each sound
source bin with a comparison to the 5-year allowance. Additionally, if
there were any changes to the sound source allowance, this report will
include a discussion of why the change was made and include the
analysis to support how the change did or did not result in a change in
the FEIS and final rule determinations. The report will be submitted
April 1 following the expiration of the rule. NMFS will submit comments
on the draft close-out report, if any, within 3 months of receipt. The
report will be considered final after the Navy has addressed NMFS'
comments, or 3 months after the submittal of the draft if NMFS does not
provide comments.
(h) Ship Shock Trial Report--The reporting requirements will be
developed in conjunction with the individual test-specific mitigation
plan for each ship shock trial. This will allow both the Navy and NMFS
to take into account specific information regarding location, assets,
species, and seasonality.
Sec. 218.86 Applications for Letters of Authorization.
To incidentally take marine mammals pursuant to the regulations in
this subpart, the U.S. citizen (as defined by Sec. 216.106) conducting
the activity identified in Sec. 218.80(c) (the U.S. Navy) must apply
for and obtain either an initial LOA in accordance with Sec. 218.87 or
a renewal under Sec. 218.88.
Sec. 218.87 Letters of Authorization.
(a) An LOA, unless suspended or revoked, will be valid for a period
of time not to exceed the period of validity of this subpart.
(b) Each LOA will set forth:
(1) Permissible methods of incidental taking;
(2) Means of effecting the least practicable adverse impact on the
species (i.e., mitigation), its habitat, and on the availability of the
species for subsistence uses; and
(3) Requirements for mitigation, monitoring and reporting.
(c) Issuance and renewal of the LOA will be based on a
determination that the total number of marine mammals taken by the
activity as a whole will have no more than a negligible impact on the
affected species or stock of marine mammal(s).
Sec. 218.88 Renewals and Modifications of Letters of Authorization.
(a) An LOA issued under Sec. Sec. 216.106 of this chapter and
218.87 for the activity identified in Sec. 218.80(c) will be
[[Page 73073]]
renewed or modified upon request of the applicant, provided that:
(1) The proposed specified activity and mitigation, monitoring, and
reporting measures, as well as the anticipated impacts, are the same as
those described and analyzed for these regulations (excluding changes
made pursuant to the adaptive management provision of this chapter),
and
(2) NMFS determines that the mitigation, monitoring, and reporting
measures required by the previous LOA under these regulations were
implemented.
(b) For LOA modification or renewal requests by the applicant that
include changes to the activity or the mitigation, monitoring, or
reporting (excluding changes made pursuant to the adaptive management
provision of this chapter) that do not change the findings made for the
regulations or result in no more than a minor change in the total
estimated number of takes (or distribution by species or years), NMFS
may publish a notice of proposed LOA in the Federal Register, including
the associated analysis illustrating the change, and solicit public
comment before issuing the LOA .
(c) A LOA issued under Sec. 216.106 and Sec. 218.87 of this
chapter for the activity identified in Sec. 218.80(c) of this chapter
may be modified by NMFS under the following circumstances:
(1) Adaptive Management--NMFS may modify (including augment) the
existing mitigation, monitoring, or reporting measures (after
consulting with Navy regarding the practicability of the modifications)
if doing so creates a reasonable likelihood of more effectively
accomplishing the goals of the mitigation and monitoring set forth in
the preamble for these regulations.
(i) Possible sources of data that could contribute to the decision
to modify the mitigation, monitoring, or reporting measures in an LOA:
(A) Results from Navy's monitoring from the previous year(s).
(B) Results from other marine mammal and/or sound research or
studies.
(C) Any information that reveals marine mammals may have been taken
in a manner, extent or number not authorized by these regulations or
subsequent LOAs.
(ii) If, through adaptive management, the modifications to the
mitigation, monitoring, or reporting measures are substantial, NMFS
will publish a notice of proposed LOA in the Federal Register and
solicit public comment.
(2) Emergencies. If NMFS determines that an emergency exists that
poses a significant risk to the well-being of the species or stocks of
marine mammals specified in Sec. 218.82(c) this chapter, an LOA may be
modified without prior notice or opportunity for public comment. Notice
would be published in the Federal Register within 30 days of the
action.
[FR Doc. 2013-27846 Filed 12-3-13; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 3510-22-P