Scientific Research 



and participation by seven Federal agencies.* A pilot investigation will be 

 executed on and near Barbados by ESSA and Florida State University from 

 June to August 1968. 



Continuing Importance of Basic Research 



The Federal Government has played a major role in the support of basic 

 research generally and marine research specifically. It has endeavored to 

 strengthen the research base, through intensified academic science, con- 

 structing modern ships and laboratories, and supporting education and 

 training to insure a continuing influx of talented people into the field. The 

 base of scientific competence must now be further developed. The smaller 

 laboratories, as well as the larger well-established centers, must be 

 strengthened and contributions from a wide range of individual scientists 

 must be encouraged. 



The Marine Resources and Engineering Development Act has given new 

 focus to the benefits to be derived from application of scientific discovery 

 that adds significance to the research itself. Continued excellence is essential 

 to effectively use the sea. The Marine Sciences Council has accordingly 

 selected basic research as deserving special attention, with emphasis on 

 research conducted at academic institutions. 



' Departments of Commerce, Defense, Interior and Transportation and the Atomic 

 Energy Commission, National Aeronautics and Space Administration, and National 

 Science Foundation. 



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