Shock Testing the SEAWOLF Submarine, Final Environmental Impact Statement
Abstract
This FEIS evaluates the environmental consequences of shock testing the SEAWOLF submarine at an offshore location. The submarine would be subjected to a series of five 4,536 kg (10,000 lb) explosive charge detonations of incrementally increasing intensity sometime between 1 April and 30 September 2000. The FEIS evaluates a no action alternative and analyzes in detail two alternative areas offshore of Mayport, Florida and Norfolk, Virginia. Alternatives are compared with respect to project purpose and need, operational criteria, and environmental impacts. Most environmental impacts of shock testing would be similar at Mayport or Norfolk. These include minor and/or temporary impacts to the physical and biological environments and existing human uses of the area. Using 1995 survey data from both areas as the most appropriate basis for comparison, the risk of mortality and injury of marine mammals is about 5 to 7 times lower at Mayport than at Norfolk, whereas the risk to sea turtles is about the same at the two areas. Thus, the preferred alternative is to shock test the SEAWOLF offshore of Mayport, Florida, with mitigation to minimize risk to marine mammals and turtles. If the Mayport area is selected, the shock tests would be conducted between 1 May and 30 September to minimize risk to sea turtles, which may be more abundant there during April.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- May 01, 1998
- Accession Number
- ADA346334
Entities
Organizations
- United States Department of the Navy