Plans to extend the Navy's weapons testing and training area have been put into motion. Upon recent approval by the Obama Administration, marine life  could face dangers once weapons testing begins.

The new area will include waters off the coast of California all the way north to Washington. 

Dumping of hazardous materials, such as depleted uranium and ammunition rounds, worry groups like the Natural Resources Defense Council and the Orca Network. The fragile marine environment is not the place for waste products from weapons testing.

Underwater minefields and use of sonar are among other concerns the groups have.

150 orcas call Puget Sound home, and according to the Orca Network, the pod is, "very susceptible." The use of sonar could disrupt the pod's ability to navigate, communicate and could even affect reproduction rates.

It has been proven that sonar pulses drive at least one species of whales away from feeding grounds and cause changes in diving patterns.

Early in March, at least three dolphins were killed due to the Navy's underwater blasting exercises. Even while proper safety procedures are taken, marine life can still be fatally injured.

With the environment and marine life at stake, tell the Navy not to conduct its testing in sensitive marine habitats.

Photo credit: winkyintheuk