Don't forget to tell the U.S. Navy that exploiting sea lions and dolphins is unacceptable: public meetings are next week!
Background
PAWS has recently been informed by the U.S. Navy of its plans to prepare an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) for a program to locate and intercept possible security intruders in the waters around the Naval Base Kitsap at Bangor. Although the Navy is looking into four alternatives, the stated preferred approach would be to use trained Atlantic Bottlenose Dolphins and/or California Sea Lions.
In the past, PAWS—in partnership with many animal welfare and environmental organizations—successfully worked to stop the Navy from deploying dolphins in Western Washington to assist with military operations. We were very disappointed to learn the Navy is pursuing similar plans again in 2007.
PAWS is concerned for how the frigid waters of the Puget Sound will affect these animals who have until now been kept in captivity in much warmer climates. While the Navy intends to study how to lessen the impacts of cold water on these creatures, it doesn’t change the fact that these animals will be forced to perform in temperatures that they are unaccustomed to.
In addition, the dolphins and/or sea lions would live their lives in small enclosures. Their only opportunity to swim in open waters would be when assisting humans in security drills and operations, potentially exposing them to injury and even death. No matter how well-designed a captive habitat may be, it can never replicate the freedom that wild animals require to respond naturally to their full range of instincts, behaviors and desires. Absence of these freedoms creates both physiological and psychological stresses and can cause suffering.
As is required by an EIS, the Navy is collecting public comment on their proposed plans. It is essential that you speak out for the well-being of these beautiful, wild animals who have no choice in how they may be “deployed.” The Navy needs to better understand the community’s interests. Your comments and concerns will be used to frame the EIS. There are many opportunities to speak out in March and April, including two public scoping meetings.
Attend a scoping meeting:
Tuesday, March 27, 2007—5:30 to 8:30 pm
Naval Undersea Museum
NUWC Keyport
Highway 308 at Garnet Way
Keyport, WA 98345
Wednesday, March 28, 2007—5:30 to 8:30 pm
Holiday Inn
211 Dexter Ave N
Seattle, WA 98109
(Free parking provided)
Share your comments or questions on the EIS draft before April 16, 2007 to:
Space and Naval Warfare Systems Center
ATTN: Mike Rothe 235
53560 Hull St
San Diego, CA 92152
Email: NBKEIS@spawar.navy.mil
Phone: 888. 510.5476
Fax: 619. 221.5251
View the alternative approaches, track progress, receive notifications and submit comments on the EIS online at: www.nbkeis.gc.saic.com
Updates for Washington State’s animal-related legislation
This year’s Washington State legislative session lasts until April 22.Review 2007 legislative updates to track the progress of the bills PAWS has reported on so far. Voice your opinion on these bills that affect animals by following the guide to contacting your legislator and the governor included in the link above.
Thank you for speaking out for animals!
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