The U.S. Navy has announced that after more than two years of environmental review, it’s decided to continue and even expand its weapons testing off the Central and South Coasts.
The Point Mugu Sea Range is 36,000 acres of ocean off the coasts of Los Angeles, Ventura, Santa Barbara, and San Luis Obispo Counties.
The Navy’s environmental study says the effects of the testing will be minimal on air quality, the ocean floor, and fish. However, it says there could be impacts on whales, sea turtles and birds from things like explosives testing.
The plan includes a number of protocols to try to minimize the impacts on marine life. Navy officials say as technology continues to evolve, the testing is critical for national defense.
