INTRODUCTION 



During the past two and one-half years, national attention has been in- 

 creasingly focused on the potential of the seas and on the importance of 

 policies and programs to use the seas more effectively. The Federal Govern- 

 ment has endeavored to provide the necessary stimulus and support and 

 the leadership to meet public purposes and scientific opportunities — to pro- 

 mote economic growth, enhance the quality of our environment, and con- 

 tribute to international peace and security through our ocean endeavors. 

 Since mid- 1966: 



— The President has issued more than 20 policy statements including 

 goals, priorities, and plans to mobilize our resources for intensified 

 marine activities. 

 — The Congress has held more than 100 hearings and enacted more than 

 two dozen new laws to promote broader, safer, and more rational 

 use of the oceans and their resources. 

 — The United States has cosponsored five Resolutions adopted by the 

 U.N. General Assembly, calling for broader international coopera- 

 tion to explore and to develop the oceans and their resources for the 

 benefit of mankind. 

 — The National Council on Marine Resources and Engineering Develop- 

 ment has acted on more than 65 major ocean policy issues at 15 

 plenary sessions. 

 — The Commission on Marine Science, Engineering, and Resources has 

 issued a major report on a national marine science program to meet 

 present and future needs, including a recommendation for the estab- 

 lishment of a new independent Federal agency to serve as the focal 

 point for civilian ocean affairs. 



