Navy Wants to Test Sonar Despite Risk to Whales

The U.S. Navy wants to renew its authority to send loud sonar blasts into the Pacific and Indian Oceans where endangered whales are found, according to a March 1 Federal Register notice.

The sonar tests have been taking place for years, but must be reauthorized for military activities every seven years. Opponents of sonar testing now see the new proposal’s 30-day notice and comment window as a chance to protest the tests.

In its proposal, the National Marine Fisheries Service said the Navy had asked it for authorization to incidentally harass 46 species of marine mammals while ...