DAHLGREN, Va. — The Naval Surface Warfare Center Dahlgren Division (NSWCDD) has released its range schedule for the Potomac River Test Range and Explosive Experimental Area (Pumpkin Neck) from March 30 to April 4, 2025, detailing operations that may impact residents and boaters in Charles and St. Mary’s counties. The facilities, used for military munitions testing, will conduct activities that could generate significant noise and impose river restrictions, particularly affecting communities along the Potomac River.
Range Schedule Overview
- Monday, March 31: Testing from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. may produce “Very Loud” noise in the southern and eastern areas of NSF Dahlgren, extending downrange to surrounding communities, including those in Charles County near Cobb Island and St. Mary’s County near Scotland. The Potomac River will be restricted approximately 20,000 yards (11.4 miles) downrange, from the yellow “K” buoy (Maryland) to the yellow “J” buoy (Virginia), impacting boaters in these areas.
- Tuesday, April 1: Operations continue from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., with “Very Loud” noise expected both on-station and downrange, affecting the same regions as Monday. River restrictions mirror Monday’s, extending 20,000 yards downrange, limiting access for boaters in Charles and St. Mary’s counties.
- Wednesday, April 2: Testing from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. will generate “Moderate” noise in the eastern area of NSF Dahlgren and downrange, potentially noticeable in nearby communities. River restrictions will be reduced to 10,000 yards (5.7 miles) downrange, from the yellow “O” buoy (Maryland) to the yellow “N” buoy (Virginia), still affecting boating but over a smaller area.
- Thursday, April 3, and Friday, April 4: Operations from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on both days will have no noise impact or river restrictions, allowing normal activity for residents and boaters.
