Marion County

U.S. Navy will conduct bombing exercises in Ocala National Forest

U.S. Air Force Airmen of the 145th Airlift Wing conducted an Anti-Terrorism Exercise simulating a car bomb detonation inside the perimeter of the North Carolina Air National Guard Base, Charlotte Douglas Intl. Airport, Nov. 1, 2014. The exercise initiated force protection measures across the base and tested the Wings ability to respond accordingly. After the car-bomb detonation, airmen also performed simulated recovery procedures until conclusion of the exercise.  (U.S. Air National Guard photo by Senior Airman Laura J. Montgomery, 145th Public Affairs/Released)

ALTOONA, Fla. — The U.S. Navy will conduct inert bombing exercises at the Pinecastle Range Complex in the Ocala National Forest on August 5 and 7.

The exercises are planned for August 5 from 9:15 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. and 2:15 p.m. to 4:00 p.m., and on August 7 from 9:15 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. During these times, wildlife in the area may be temporarily displaced, prompting a need for caution among residents and visitors.

Residents and visitors to the Ocala National Forest should exercise extra caution when driving through the area during bombing exercises. Wildlife displacement could result in more encounters with animals, including black bears.

The Navy recommends securing any items around homes that might attract wildlife and practicing bearwise techniques to reduce the risk of conflicts with bears. If noise from exercises bothers you, you can submit noise complaints here.

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