Residents can expect a heavy military presence at the underwater demolition range off Metchosin now through Aug. 18.
The range at Whirl Bay, on the south shore of Rocky Point – bordered by Pedder Bay to the northeast, Race Passage to the south and Beecher Bay to the west – will be active daily from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. according to Maritime Forces Pacific Public Affairs.
“Operations at Whirl Bay are guided by strict mitigation measures and procedures to limit impact to fish and marine mammals,” navy public affairs said in a release. “An air bubble curtain is used during underwater demolitions to reduce underwater sound pressure, and acoustic monitoring will be conducted to verify the effectiveness of the bubble curtain at reducing sound propagation.
Work at Whirl Bay includes an expert third-party marine mammal observer to advise military staff when the range is clear of whales ahead of demolitions. Explosions are delayed until the observer confirms the area is clear.
“The public is advised that they may observe military personnel, boats, and other assets in the area. This is part of routine operations, and there is no cause for concern. However, please be aware that there may be an increase in noise during the training hours.”
