The Canadian Armed Forces are letting the public know they will be engaging in demolitions training at a site near Metchosin this week and next.
From Thursday, November 28th to Friday, December 6th, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., this training will be done on Bentinck Island, which is located near Rocky Point in the Strait of Juan de Fuca.
According to the Canadian Armed Forces, these types of training events are critical to ensure military members gain core skills and maintain operational readiness.
Because of this training, local residents are being forewarned they may hear explosive devices detonating periodically, but will likely be unaware of the activities taking place. This is because the sound will only travel from Bentinck Island if atmospheric conditions are just right.
Additionally, the Canadian Armed Forces say there will be minimal impact to marine animals such as whales due to strict mitigation measures and procedures which are put in place to limit acoustic impacts.
The operations that take place on Bentinck Island utilize an expert third-party Marine Mammal Observer to advise military staff when the range is clear of whales prior to demolitions.
If whales are sighted, or known to be in the area, explosive events are delayed.
Canadian Armed Forces are reminding the public that no one is authorized in the area of Bentinck Island.
