Naval Surface Warfare Center Dahlgren Division plans range testing for Wednesday and Thursday that could generate very loud noise across communities near Naval Support Facility Dahlgren in King George County.
The operations, scheduled from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day, involve activities at the Potomac River Test Range and Explosive Experimental Area at Pumpkin Neck. These tests focus on military munitions and may produce elevated sound levels both on the base’s southern and eastern sections, known as the Main Range and Terminal Range, and downrange toward surrounding areas in Southern Maryland. Access to the Potomac River Middle Danger Zone will remain restricted throughout the period, as outlined in federal regulations.
The danger zone, defined under 33 CFR 334.230, spans portions of the Potomac River adjacent to the facility. During testing hours, no persons or vessels may enter without authorization from the enforcing agency, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. This includes a prohibition on approaching within 100 yards of the shoreline due to risks from unexploded ordnance. Vessels other than naval craft face anchoring bans except in emergencies. The restrictions extend about 20,000 yards downrange from the facility, from the yellow “K” buoy in Maryland to the yellow “J” buoy in Virginia. Transits resume after operations conclude each day.
Range schedules shift often based on operational needs, weather or other factors. Residents seeking real-time details can dial the NSWCDD Range and Weapons Testing toll-free hotline at 877-845-5656. The Potomac River Test Range website offers daily updates on activities
For further inquiries, the NSWCDD Public Affairs Office handles questions via email at NSWCD_103.fct@navy.mil or by phone at 540-653-8152. The office emphasizes community notification as a standard practice for transparency during tests.
Safety protocols under 33 CFR 334.230 ensure minimal risk to civilians. The regulation, enforced since the mid-20th century, designates danger zones to protect against fragments, shock waves and residual hazards from live-fire exercises. Boaters must monitor VHF radio Channel 16 for alerts, and visual signals like red flags or lights denote active periods. The Army Corps coordinates with local maritime groups, including the Coast Guard Auxiliary, to clear the area before tests begin.
