DAHLGREN, Va., — The Naval Surface Warfare Center Dahlgren Division (NSWCDD) has announced the operational schedule for the Potomac River Test Range and the Explosive Experimental Area (Pumpkin Neck) for May 10-16, 2025. The facilities, used for military munitions testing, will conduct activities that may produce significant noise and restrict access to portions of the Potomac River on specific days.
From Monday, May 12, to Wednesday, May 14, testing is scheduled daily from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Operations during these days have the potential to create “Very Loud” noise in the southern and eastern areas of Naval Support Facility (NSF) Dahlgren, as well as in surrounding communities down range. The Potomac River will be restricted approximately 20,000 yards down range from NSF Dahlgren, below the yellow “K” buoy in Maryland and to the yellow “J” buoy in Virginia, as outlined in 33 CFR 334.230. Boaters are advised to avoid these areas during testing hours.
No testing is planned for Saturday, May 10, or Sunday, May 11, allowing unrestricted river access and no anticipated noise impacts. Similarly, operations on Thursday, May 15, and Friday, May 16, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., will not involve activities expected to produce noise or require river restrictions.
Residents with questions or concerns about noise or vibrations from the testing can contact NSF Dahlgren at 540-653-8153. Daily updates on the range schedule are available through the toll-free Weapons Testing Hotline at 877-845-5656 or on the NSWCDD Facebook page at NSWCDD Official Page. For additional information, the NSWCDD Public Affairs Office can be reached at 540-653-8152.
The Potomac River Test Range and Explosive Experimental Area are critical for military munitions testing, supporting the development and evaluation of warfare systems. The facilities’ operations often involve controlled explosions and live-fire exercises, necessitating strict safety protocols. The announced restrictions align with federal regulations governing the Potomac River Middle Danger Zone, ensuring public safety during testing periods.
Testing from May 12 to May 14 may impact communities in Southern Maryland and Northern Virginia near NSF Dahlgren. The “Very Loud” noise classification indicates potential disturbances audible over a wide area, particularly in residential zones close to the range.
The absence of testing on May 10 and 11 provides a quiet weekend for local residents and river users. The lack of noise or river restrictions on May 15 and 16 further minimizes disruptions later in the week, allowing normal recreational and commercial activities on the Potomac River.
NSWCDD’s commitment to transparency includes regular schedule announcements and multiple channels for public inquiries. The hotline and Facebook page offer real-time updates, while the Public Affairs Office addresses broader concerns. These measures aim to balance operational needs with community impacts, particularly in areas sensitive to noise.
The test range’s activities are part of NSWCDD’s mission to deliver advanced warfare systems for the U.S. Navy. Testing ensures the reliability and safety of munitions, contributing to national defense. The Explosive Experimental Area at Pumpkin Neck complements river-based operations, providing a controlled environment for land-based experiments.
Local boaters and residents are encouraged to plan around the May 12-14 restrictions. The 20,000-yard restricted zone covers a significant portion of the river, and compliance with navigational warnings is essential for safety. The yellow “K” and “J” buoys serve as clear markers for the restricted area, guiding mariners to safe routes.
