212 



(2) International policies. 



(3) Exploration and environmental pi*ediction services. 



(4) Multiple use of the seashore. 



(5) Food from the sea. 



We are fortunate to have a close association w^ith the advisory Commission on 

 Marine Science, Engineering, and Resources. While the Commission and the 

 Council are independent, we are at the same time worliing harmoniously together 

 toward common goals. We are looking forward to the Commission's recommenda- 

 tions to the President and to the Congress concerning a national plan and the 

 most appropriate future structure of the Federal Government to carry out statu- 

 ory purposes. 



Most of the mysteries of the sea remain cloaked before us. Most of its resources 

 remain untapped. Most of its potential to serve national goals remains unawak- 

 ened. To realize this opportunity depends on a crentive partnership of our Fed- 

 eral Government with States, with universities and research organizations, and 

 with industry. 



We recognize the intensified use of the sea, now projected world wide, could 

 very well stimulate national rivalries and conflicts that could arrest the develop- 

 ment of marine resources and defeat the very purpose of our national policy. It 

 is, therefore, essential that we work with all countries, from East and West, bi- 

 laterally and through international organizations, in exploring, understanding 

 and using the seas and their resources. Together with the advanced nations we 

 can jointly explore ocean resources. We can assist the less developed countries 

 to promote coastal development, open new waterways and strengthen food econ- 

 omies, thus promoting economic growth and political stability. 



Since the founding of the United Nations this country has played a leading role 

 in mobilizing international interests in preserving and promoting peace through 

 this world forum. The increasing interest in marine activities of many UN bodies 

 such as the Food and Agriculture Organization and the Intergovernmental 

 Oceanographic Commission reflect the international character of oceanic 

 endeavors. 



As we continue our efforts in these bodies, at the top of our list of priorities 

 remains the necessity to mobilize the efforts of many countries to tap the 

 abundant unused food potential of the oceans, for the world's food supply 

 stretches thinner and thinner in the face of a spiralling population. We also 

 anticipate developments in other areas of marine technology which will provide 

 new opportunities for strengthening maritime ties. For example, the deployment 

 of unmanned ocean stations for collecting environmental data can benefit many 

 nations. 



Pure logic and practical economics dictate this program. However, not to be 

 forgotten is man's compelling desire to explore and to understand the world 

 around him. The spirit which has carried us to rugged mountain peaks, remote 

 polar icecaps, and distant reaches of outerspace now propels us to the ocean 

 deeps. This spirit is fortified with a confidence developed by past contributions 

 of science that we will not only conquer the ocean deeps but will use them in 

 satisfying the needs of our society. 



In concluding, I would like to express my appreciation for the interest by the 

 Congress in what is both an enormously complex set of issues and an untapped 

 set of opportunities to study and utilize the sea to serve man. This progrnm is 

 supported by both Executive and Legislative branches of Government, free of 

 partisan controversy, and I look forward to our working further with the Con- 

 gress in serving our mutual interests. 

 Sincerely, 



Hubert H. Humphrey. 



Commission on Marine Science. Engtneeeing and Resources, 



Washington, D.C., November 15, 1967. 

 Hon. Dante B. Fascell, 



Chairman, Subcommittee on International Organizations and Movements, Hou-se 

 Committee on Foreign Affairs, Rayburn House Office Building, Washing- 

 ton, D.C. 

 Dear Mr. Fascell: This is in response to your staff's request for a simimary 

 of this Commission's responsibilities and activities. 



The Marine Resources and Engineering Act of 1966 (Public Law 89-454), 

 which authorized the Commission's establishment, sets forth various goals for a 



