Method for Determining Acoustic Impact of Underwater Acoustic Sources on Marine Animals
Abstract
A method is provided to estimate acoustic impacts to marine animals within a chosen area. The method begins with data collection on types of acoustic sources to be modeled, animal assemblages in the chosen area, environmental characteristics of the area and on relevant environmental regulations. An acoustic model, appropriate for the chosen area and its environmental characteristics, is then selected and generates a source footprint of all sources to be located at the site. The marine animal distribution is then overlaid onto the acoustic propagation at the site. The marine animal distribution is time-weighted to correspond with the proposed acoustic source usage, as well as short term and seasonal marine animal behavior patterns. The total number of impacted marine animals is then calculated. Impacts are calculated by species, source, scenario and season. The calculated number is then rounded upwards to the next whole individual, pod, or group, depending on the animals' behavior patterns.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 23, 2001
- Accession Number
- ADD019832
Entities
People
- Colin J. Lazauski
- Glenn H. Mitchell
- Thomas N. Fetherston Ii
Organizations
- United States Department of the Navy