89 



10 

 programs. The yearly Coastweeks program is, in most states, 

 administered or sponsored by the respective coastal zone 

 management agencies and has proven a successful vehicle for co- 

 sponsorship of beach clean-ups . We support continued cooperation 

 between public and private groups in sponsoring beach clean-ups 

 and in furthering citizen education on the sources and effects of 

 marine debris. 



Section 6 also makes eligible for federal assistance under 

 the Coastal Zone Management Act state programs to reduce 

 floatable material in coastal recreation waters through managing 

 land uses, encouraging public participation, sponsoring beach 

 clean-ups, and purchasing clean-up equipment. Costs for 

 developing water quality criteria and monitoring coastal waters 

 would be shared equally between the federal government and the 

 states under Section 7. 

 Conclusion 



In conclusion, we believe that the B.E.A.C.H. Act makes an 

 outstanding contribution to reducing the beach debris problem by 

 encouraging citizens, businesses and local governments to become 

 part of the beach debris solution. We are concerned, however, 

 that adequate public support be provided to state and local 

 governments to help them implement the testing and monitoring 

 provisions of the bill. We thank you for the opportunity to 

 testify and look forward to working with the Sxxbcommittee as you 

 continue your deliberations on H.R. 31. 



