Why do you want to close Naval Air Station Whidbey Island (NASWI)?

We are not advocating for the closure of the Naval base on Whidbey Island. We are advocating for the Navy to relocate a portion or all of their EA-18G Growler jets to more appropriate, safer, and effective areas while refocusing NASWI to modern, environmentally sound, innovative missions.

Wasn’t the base here first? Why are people complaining about the noise if they knew about the jets when they moved here?

NASWI was opened in the early 1940s. Although new homeowners are required to sign a noise disclosure before purchasing homes on Whidbey Island, Growler noise pollution impacts at least 7 counties across the state. Some families have lived in the region for longer than the base has been around, including Native tribes who have lived in the area for 10,000 years. Others bought homes here before the arrival of the Growler jets in 2008. And some came before the Growler operations were expanded by four-fold in 2019.

Who is impacted by Growler jet noise?

People across Washington State and even as far north as Saanich, Victoria (B.C. Canada) are impacted. The EA-18G Growler jets are some of the world’s loudest jets. The intensity, frequency, duration, and altitude of the Growler operations is a threat to public health. Researchers from the University of Washington found that over 74,000 people in Washington are impacted by the noise, including 85% of the population of the Swinomish Indian Reservation. The noise is dangerous to pilots and their families, veterans and others with PTSD, children, farmers, recreationalists, business owners, and more.

Are people the only ones impacted by Growler jet noise?

No, animals are also impacted by the excessive, startling, and low-frequency noise. Unlike us, animals do not have the ability to retreat indoors, cover their ears, or leave the area. We have a responsibility to take care of our pets, livestock, and wild and marine life. Some of the world’s loudest jets should not be trained over homes, farms, protected lands, and habitats of endangered species.

What’s your solution?

Read our Roadmap to a Remedy! We are working with community groups, local organizations, and our elected officials to hold the Navy accountable for the harm they are causing to our communities. You can get involved too! Become a Sound Defender and help us protect our irreplaceable home.