Fly elsewhere, Growlers
The Navy plans to expand its electronic warfare training for EA-18G “Growler” jets, some of the loudest aircraft in the world, over Olympic National Park (“A crusade for quiet” HCN, 5/13/19). Plans are already in the works to add another 36 jets to its existing fleet of 82 on Whidbey Island, a 44% increase. More jets mean more noise. The Navy’s training airspace is planned over the Hoh Rain Forest, recognized as one of the most naturally quiet places in America, thanks to its canopy of forest and moss. Numerous visitors have already documented the deafening impacts from current training activities, outlining the detriment to the natural sound and solitude of the region. The Navy is planning up to 5,000 jet flights annually here. There are other places they can fly, whereas the Olympics and the Hoh cannot move. The Navy should be looking at other alternatives in its environmental impact study now out for public comment by June 12. Let’s hear the Olympics, not Growlers.
Rob Smith
Seattle, Washington