SILVERDALE — The U.S. Navy and Coast Guard have launched a new environmental review of their training and testing activities in Northwest waters, with a 45-day public comment period open through January 19.
The Supplemental Environmental Impact Statement updates reviews from 2015 and 2020, assessing impacts from activities such as sonar use, explosives training, and equipment testing. The study area includes offshore waters from Washington to Northern California, Puget Sound, the Strait of Juan de Fuca, and parts of Southeast Alaska.
Officials say the review will incorporate updated marine mammal data, acoustic modeling, and current science. The agencies also plan to renew permits under the Marine Mammal Protection Act and Endangered Species Act, set to expire in 2027.
The public, stakeholders, and tribal governments are encouraged to submit input on potential alternatives and environmental concerns. Comments can be submitted at: https://www.nepa.navy.mil/nwtteis/ or by mail.
A draft report is expected in September 2026.