V-3 



Chapter 1 

 ROLE AND PROGRAMS OF FEDERAL AGENCIES 



This chapter describes the current Federal role and programs in the 

 estuarine zone and identifies the needs to be met to provide for a 

 stronger more effective Federal program. 



The current Federal role as such, has grown over a period of many 

 years and has as its basis the national interest which extends 

 beyond State borders. The role is based on Federal legislation 

 which itself has developed over a period of years to meet many speci- 

 fic needs seen and acted upon by Congress. It has also grown as one 

 of concurrent jurisdiction with the States who exercise the primary 

 authority in the estuarine zone--Even so the Federal role is a vital 

 one and is essential to the preservation of national interests. 

 Broadly speaking these are: 



(1) the protection and development of the Federal 

 interest in the natural resources of the estuarine 

 zone, 



(2) commerce and navigation and, 



(3) national security. 



