Comment from DIANE KASTEL

The quantified results of the marine mammal acoustic effects analysis presented in the Navy’s Letter of Authorization application to NMFS differ from the quantified results presented in the AFTT Draft EIS/OEIS. Modifications to the requested take numbers outlined in the AFTT Draft EIS/OEIS are presented in the Proposed Rule and are a result of consultation with NMFS, as well as refinements to training and testing modeling inputs and minor changes to Navy training and testing as a result of emerging requirements. In consultation with NMFS, the Navy has made post-model adjustments to further refine the numerical analysis of acoustic effects so as to include animal avoidance of sound sources, avoidance of areas of activity before use of a sound source or explosive, and implementation of mitigation. All comments received by NMFS on the Proposed Rule that address (1) refinement to the modeling inputs for training and testing; (2) emerging training and testing requirements; and (3) post-model quantification based on animal avoidance of sound sources and mitigation will be reviewed and addressed by the Navy in the AFTT Final EIS/OEIS.