Incidental Take Authorization: U.S. Air Force Testing and Training Activities in Eglin Gulf Test and Training Range at Eglin Air Force Base

NOAA Fisheries has issued regulations and an LOA to the U.S. Air Force, Eglin Air Force Base 96th Test Wing for authorization to take marine mammals incidental to conducting testing and training activities in the Eglin Gulf Test and Training Range in the Gulf of Mexico over the course of five years, from February 13, 2018 through February 12, 2023. These regulations allow NOAA Fisheries to issue a Letter of Authorization (LOA) for the incidental take of marine mammals during the specified testing and training activities carried out during the rule’s period of effectiveness, set forth the permissible methods of taking, set forth other means of effecting the least practicable adverse impact on marine mammal species or stocks and their habitat, and set forth requirements pertaining to the monitoring and reporting of the incidental take. The specific activities are classified as military readiness activities.

Map of EGTTR