Study: Puget Sound ship noise exceeds level that is safe for marine mammals

(SEATTLE) — Noise from ships, ferries and tugboats in Puget Sound may be above levels that are safe for aquatic life, the Seattle Times newspaper reported. The study by the University of Washington found that noise from vessel traffic can approach and often exceed the level considered to have a harassing impact on marine mammals. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration is mapping undersea noise and is reconsidering what should be considered acceptable.

Click here to view the newspaper's story plus a graphic entitled "The noisy ocean" and a photo.

By Professional Mariner Staff