11b. Memo
Underwater Noise Mitigation and Management Plan
COMMISSION AGENDA MEMORANDUM Item No. 11b BRIEFING ITEM Date of Meeting October 11, 2022 DATE: August 24, 2022 TO: Stephen P. Metruck, Executive Director FROM: Sarah Ogier, Director-Maritime Environment & Sustainability Jon Sloan, Sr. Manager, Environmental Programs Danielle Butsick, Sr. Environmental Management Specialist SUBJECT: Underwater Noise Mitigation and Management Plan EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Central Puget Sound is habitat for several species of threatened and endangered marine mammals, birds, and fish—most notably southern resident killer whales, a “keystone” species for conservation efforts. Underwater noise impacts the southern resident killer whales’ ability to feed, communicate, navigate, reproduce, and avoid danger. Without action, underwater noise will continue to impact killer whales. The Port of Seattle (Port) is committed to help ensure that commerce, communities, and killer whales can co-exist. While the Port does not have direct control over most port-related activities that generate underwater noise, it plays an important role by providing support in the following areas: • Leadership in environmentally responsible stewardship of marine facilities • Advocacy for sound policy, regulations, and practices related to underwater noise • Financial investments and studies to advance scientific knowledge • Partnerships with industry, government agencies, tribes, and non-profits The Underwater Noise Mitigation and Management Plan (Plan) describes the Port’s approach to reduce potential adverse effects of underwater noise on marine mammals and other sensitive species. It focuses on two main port-related sources of underwater noise: vessel movement and in-water construction. The Plan is designed to meet the Level 3 Criteria for the Green Marine Underwater Noise Performance Indicator and will provide the framework for achieving Level 4 and Level 5 Criteria. ATTACHMENTS TO THIS BRIEFING (1) Presentation slides (2) Draft Underwater Noise Mitigation and Management Plan (UNMMP) PREVIOUS COMMISSION ACTIONS OR BRIEFINGS None. Template revised January 10, 2019.
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