Marine Species Research
The U.S. Navy is a world leader in marine species research - particularly marine mammals. Our programs include an extensive portfolio of basic and early applied research at the Office of Naval Research, as well as demonstration and validation projects under the Living Marine Resources (LMR) Program, managed by the Naval Facilities Engineering Command.
These programs invests in basic research on the potential effects of sounds on marine mammals, and develops scientific information that supports Navy preparation of environmental impact statements and associated regulatory processes under the Marine Mammal Protection Act (MMPA), the Endangered Species Act (ESA) and other statutes. This research goes beyond legal compliance requirements to support development of improved monitoring and detection technology and overall knowledge about Species' biology and ecology.
Our research investments are guided by data and technology development related to understanding the effects of sound on marine animals, including physiological, behavioral and ecological effects, currently focused on the following general areas:
