The effects of sound in the marine environment (ESME) workbench: A simulation tool to predict the impact of anthropogenic sound on marine mammals

Abstract

The ESME (Effects of Sound in the Marine Environment) Workbench is a software tool designed to predict the impact of anthropogenic sounds on marine mammals. The ESME Workbench (http://esme.bu.edu) allows the user to use site-specific environmental data such as bathymetry and sound-speed profiles to predict sound propagation in a wide range of scenarios and to record the sound exposures received by virtual animals. The acoustic propagation models use range-dependent depth profiles and depth dependent sound speed profiles to compute the received sound level for simulated animal from each simulated source. The propagation models use bottom and sea surface characteristics to account for losses that occur during reflection at these boundaries. Sound sources are specified through parameters such as source location, frequency, intensity, and beam pattern. The animal behavior is simulated using the 3MB animal movement model. We will provide hands-on demonstrations at the meeting for those interested in learning more about the ESME Workbench. © 2013 Acoustical Society of America.