🐬Regulations on Marine Mammal Protection Related to Navy Sonar Activities
Taking and Importing Marine Mammals; Taking Marine Mammals Incidental to U.S. Navy Operations of Surveillance Towed Array Sensor System Low Frequency Active Sonar in the Western and Central North Pacific Ocean and Eastern Indian Ocean
Summary
NMFS has received a request from the U.S. Department of the Navy (Navy) for authorization to take marine mammals incidental to training and testing activities using Surveillance Towed Array Sensor System (SURTASS) Low Frequency Active (LFA) sonar systems in the western and central North Pacific and eastern Indian oceans over the course of 7 years from August 2026 through August 2033. Pursuant to regulations implementing the Marine Mammal Protection Act (MMPA), NMFS is announcing receipt of the Navy's request for the development and implementation of regulations governing the incidental taking of marine mammals and issuance of a 7-year Letter of Authorization (LOA). NMFS invites the public to provide information, suggestions, and comments on the Navy's application and request.
Agencies
- Commerce Department
- National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
Business Impact
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This regulatory notice involves compliance and regulatory requirements for businesses engaged in military readiness activities, particularly those utilizing SURTASS LFA sonar. Business owners should note the potential impacts on operations related to marine mammal protection laws and the need for authorization to avoid legal consequences.