Arctic Policies and Programs 



It should be the objective of the United States to achieve the following: 

 1. A leading U.S. position in the Arctic that will satisfy its political, 

 scientific, economic, and other interests. 

 2. The economic development of Alaska including its Continental Shelf to : 



a. Increase the availability of its natural resources. 



b. Encourage the growth of private investment . 



c. Minimize inflationary effects on the Alaskan economy. 



d. Maximize the opportunities for development for the population 

 of Alaska. 



e. Minimize disturbances of the ecology of the region and ensure con- 

 sideration of the conservation of its resources. 



3. An intermodal transportation system to enhance the growth and 

 support of our scientific, economic, and other activities in the area. 



4. An improved capability to inhabit and operate in the Arctic. 



5. Mutually beneficial cooperation with our Arctic neighbors and other 

 nations in exploration, exploitation and scientific studies. 



6. Free exchange among all nations of technical and economic data 

 regarding the Arctic. 



7. A fuller understanding of the marine and terrestrial Arctic environ- 

 ment through broad programs of scientific research. 



8. In conjunction with other economic, social, and political objectives, 

 assure a capability to perform those operations necessary to the successful 

 conduct of national defense. 



Federal agencies having responsibilities for Arctic affairs should, subject 

 to coordination as appropriate by the Secretary of State, initiate actions 

 as follows: 



1. Provide or utilize appropriate mechanisms within the Executive 

 Branch for national policy planning, review, and coordination of Arctic 

 activities.'' 



2. Conduct the necessary research and engineering development to oper- 

 ate effectively in the Arctic, including such activities as : 



a. Development of environmental sciences to promote the safe and 

 effective use of the physical environment. 



b. Development of materials and designs for structures, vehicles, plat- 

 forms and systems capable of supporting safe operations on land 

 and on, under and within the icepack. 



c. Studies of the ecological implications of proposed undertakings. 



d. Development of adequate power sources for operation in the Arctic. 



3. Advance and improve the health, nutritional and educational standards 

 of the native citizens. 



* Among the organizations which currently are planning and coordinating Arctic 

 activities are the Federal Field Committee for Development Planning in the Arctic, 

 the Council's Committee on Marine Research, Education and Facilities, and the 

 Interagency Arctic Research Coordinating Committee. 



145 



