Acoustic analysis for the Haro Strait on 5 May 2003

Abstract

On 5 May 2003, USS SHOUP conducted sonar training for 4 h while transiting through the Strait of Juan de Fuca and the Haro Strait. During the time period when the sonar was configured for long-range operations, the transmissions were alleged by some observers to have influenced the behavior of the resident J-pod of orcas. Additionally, the transmissions were received and recorded on various hydrophones deployed for monitoring marine mammal vocalizations. The U.S.-Navy-commissioned detailed reconstruction of the event that relates the location of SHOUP, the J-pod, and the monitoring hydrophones during the time period of SHOUP’s long-range sonar operations is presented. By combining high-fidelity predictions of the acoustic field with the in situ acoustic recordings, the reconstruction provides a detailed, moment-to-moment picture of the worst case estimates of the sonar sound levels experienced by the J-pod. [Work supported by the U.S. Navy Pacific Fleet.]