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physical, chemical, and biological parameters. ASTM leverages 

 private and public sector assets in a professional forum building 

 technical consensus for solving problems. We recognize the 

 process of developing consensus standards is a slow one but I 

 assure the committee that the Coast Guard will actively 

 participate in the process, provide leadership, and ensure that 

 effective standards are developed for national and international 

 application. 



SUMMARY 



In summary, the Coast Guard stands ready to assist the any agency 

 or private group, in the development of effective ballast water 

 alternatives. Additionally, the Coast Guard is committed to 

 being a full participant in the effort to reduce or prevent the 

 future Introduction and spread of nonindigenous aquatic nuisance 

 species into the waters of the United States. This concludes my 

 testimony — I wil.1 be happy to answer your, questions at this 

 time. 



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