Taking or Importing of Marine Mammals: Incidental to Military Readiness Activities in the Hawaii-California Training and Testing Study Area
Summary
The U.S. Navy is asking for permission to conduct military training exercises in waters between Hawaii and California, even though these activities may harm marine mammals like whales and dolphins. The government is taking public comments until August 16, 2025, to decide whether to allow these training activities and what safeguards should protect ocean wildlife.
Key Points
- 1The Navy wants to conduct military readiness training in a large ocean area between Hawaii and California that is home to many whales, dolphins, and sea lions.
- 2Military activities like sonar, explosives testing, and underwater weapons practice can injure or disorient marine mammals, potentially causing them to strand or die.
- 3This is a proposed rule, meaning the public has until August 16, 2025, to submit comments expressing concerns or support before the government makes a final decision.
- 4If approved, the Navy would be allowed to unintentionally harm or kill a limited number of marine mammals while conducting essential military training.
- 5Environmental groups and ocean advocates may oppose this rule to protect endangered whale species and other marine life in the training area.
Key Dates
July 16, 2025
This summary is for informational purposes only. It may not capture all nuances of the regulation. Always refer to the official text for authoritative information.
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