Protect Rural and Tribal Communities and Wilderness from Combat Training
In some areas, including above much of the Gila Wilderness, the floor for supersonic flights that cause sonic booms would be lowered from 30,000 feet down to 5,000 feet, resulting in a five-fold increase in the sonic boom pressure on those below. In other areas, including above the Peloncillo Mountains, fighter jets would be authorized to fly as low as 100 feet above ground level (AGL) at speeds exceeding 600 miles per hour.
Your Message
To: U.S. Air Force
From: [Your Name]
I oppose the Air Force's proposal to expand military combat training over southern Arizona and southwest New Mexico.
This proposed action will severely harm rural and tribal communities, public lands, wildlife and the environment, and local economies.
The draft Environmental Impact Statement fails to offer a compelling reason why expanding low altitude combat training and lowering supersonic flight levels is warranted when the Barry M. Goldwater Range could provide all of its training needs with the addition of weekend scheduling.
The Air Force should restrict its lower elevation and supersonic flights, and other combat training, such as dropping chaff and flares, to the Barry M. Goldwater Range where it’s already happening.
The Air Force must not shift the burden of risk to rural and tribal communities in southern Arizona and southwest New Mexico.
Thank you for consideration of my comments.
[First Name] [Last Name]
