Despite what it might appear, the issue of Navy expansion of it’s training is an environmental issue. Noise pollution from Whidbey easily reaches both Port Townsend (16 nautical miles away) and the San Juans, sometimes late into the evening (up to midnight on some evenings in the summer). Additionally, sonar testing has unknown hazards for our endangered species like orcas, and the low level flying and electromagnetic warfare training on the far west end encroaches on the very basics of what a wilderness area is supposed to provide, which is naturally quiet space, as it is in nature. That’s why they restrict helicopters over the Grand Canyon to the west end of that wilderness park. So come out and make your presence known, and please contact Senators Patty Murray and Maria Cantwell and US House Representative Derek Kilmer to let them know your thoughts.
The Navy plans a public meeting in Port Townsend in December on a proposal to increase the number of jets originating from its base on Whidbey Island. Navy officials will take public input on a proposed increase of up to 36 EA-18G Growler aircraft at Naval Air Station Whidbey Island. An earlier proposal called for an additional 14 jets. The Port Townsend meeting will be from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. Dec. 4 at Fort Worden Commons. It will be the first held on the proposal on the North Olympic Peninsula. Charlie Bermant reports. (Peninsula Daily News)