The U.S. Navy will conduct bomb testing in the Ocala National Forest through Sunday, February 25.
According to the U.S. Forest Service National Forests in Florida, the Navy will conduct these training exercises at the Pinecastle Range Complex, which is located in the Ocala National Forest, on the following dates/times:
- Wednesday, February 21 – 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. (Live/Inert)
- Thursday, February 22 – 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. (Inert)
- Friday, February 23 – 9:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. (Inert)
- Saturday, February 24 – 9:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. (Inert)
- Sunday, February 25 – Noon to 6 p.m. (Inert)
The Pinecastle Bombing Range spans over 5,700 acres, and the Navy drops nearly 20,000 bombs there each year. In addition to inert (inactive) bombs, the Navy is authorized to use 500-, 1,000-, and 2,000-pound live bombs during the testing.
According to the Navy, training with live air-to-ground ordnance is critical to achieving and maintaining combat readiness. The U.S. Forest Service states on its website that this element of training “cannot be simulated by computer modeling and/or inert ordnance delivery and is typically conducted just prior to combat deployment to overseas theater.”
Motorists traveling near the Ocala National Forest and surrounding areas are encouraged to use extra caution since wildlife may be temporarily displaced during the bombing periods.
“Secure any items around your residence that could attract wildlife,” states the U.S. Forest Service in a social media post. “Always be mindful of larger animals including black bears and practice BearWise measures.”
Any noise complaints should be submitted via email to: nasjax.noisecomplaints@us.navy.mil.