Incorporating basic underwater sound principles into the decision making process

Abstract

Research on underwater sound is continually advancing. New discoveries on sound in different environments and how sound exposure affects marine animals are just two examples of important ongoing research. To integrate underwater acoustics research into the regulatory process, a fundamental understanding of basic sound principles is required for both producers and regulators. The University of Rhode Island Graduate School of Oceanography teamed with Marine Acoustics, Inc., on the Discovery of Sound in the Sea (DOSITS) project to provide scientifically accurate resources on the current knowledge about underwater sound. The project’s foundation is a comprehensive website (www.dosits.org). It synthesizes the latest peer-reviewed science on underwater sound in a form that is accessible to a variety of audiences. The site has over 400 pages and is updated semi-annually with newly published information after a thorough review by a panel of scientific experts. Based on the DOSITS website, this talk will provide background for the decision-making community on the characteristics of sound, underwater sound propagation, and appropriate measurement units. In addition, recent developments in the harmonization of sound modeling, measurement, and reporting will be discussed, highlighting the urgent need for consistent metrics across all underwater sound disciplines.