Despite the state of California imposing restrictions on tests in the area, the Navy and the National Oceanographic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) have negotiated with Washington to gain a two-year exemption from the Marine Mammal Protection Act, allowing them to continue studying mid-frequency sonar use, as well as a new sensor that uses small explosive charges.
A report from the International Whaling Commission's scientific committee, cited by the National Resources Defence Council, says there is compelling evidence linking the use of sonar with a series of recent whale strandings. The NRDC is in the process of suing the US Navy in the hope of halting its use of the system.
The Navy has planned a series of major training exercises, which it claims are 'absolutely essential' to protect its sailors and to defend the USA.
Related linksCalifornia restricts US Navy sonar use |
