The U.S. Navy will be conducting live and inert bomb testing in the Ocala National Forest on Thursday.
According to the U.S. Forest Service National Forests in Florida, the training exercises will take place at the Pinecastle Range Complex, which is located in the Ocala National Forest, on Thursday, March 14, from 9:15 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. (inert) and 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. (inert).
Motorists traveling near the Ocala National Forest and surrounding areas are encouraged to use extra caution since wildlife may be temporarily displaced during the bombing periods.
Local residents are advised to secure any items around a residence that may attract wildlife and to always be mindful of larger animals, including black bears.
The Pinecastle Bombing Range spans over 5,700 acres, and the Navy drops nearly 20,000 bombs there each year. In addition to inert (inactive) bombs, the Navy is authorized to use 500-, 1,000-, and 2,000-pound live bombs during the testing.
For more information, visit the U.S. Forest Service’s National Defense Land Use webpage.