382 



It does not have the impact of a big, massive, national effort that is 

 directed, we will say, in a crea/tive and a systematic fashion against 

 the whole challenge of oceanography. 



I get the impression here that a lot of this develops because indi- 

 viduals or institutions here and there come up from the bottom, so 

 to speak, bubble to the surface with an idea or appeal for a project, 

 and this somewhat guides the program. 



I could be wrong in all this, but this is an impression, and I think 

 it is only fair to state the im.pression that I have here, and I wonder 

 if you would care to comment on that. 



Dr. KoBERTSON. I would not like to try to compare the space pro- 

 gram and our marine science program. 



The space program has to be more expensive, because of the cost of 

 getting vehicles into orbit and beyond. 



I believe that we are at a point in the science and technology of the 

 oceans where we can take major technological steps which will be very 

 expensive, and which will mean a substantial increase in the total in- 

 vestment in this field. 



I think we are just at the beginning of major technological break- 

 throughs. 



Xow, we think of ourselves as having an important part in a com- 

 bined effort with other Government agencies. We have a role. It is an 

 important one. ESSA has a role. The Navy has an extremely impor- 

 tant role. 



The Council, through its broad coordinating authority — ^^and this is 

 underlined by the fact that the Vice President is Chairman, and that 

 Cabinet level people are members — can, I believe, weld this program 

 into an integrated national effort. 



We are waiting for an analysis of the situation by the Marine Sci- 

 ence Commission, under Dr. Stratton. I am sure he will have some 

 words of wisdom for us as to both the program and the organization 

 necessary to do the job, and I think everyone will pay a lot of atten- 

 tion to that report when it comes forth. 



Mr. Dow. Thank you. 



I have one other question. Dr. Robertson. 



I understand that my own State of New York is planning some kind 

 of activity in oceanographic research. At least I hear that, and I judge 

 that it is not. in a minor scale, but fairly substantial. 



Would you care to comment on the relationship of that effort to the 

 work of the National Science Foundation in oceanography ? 



Dr. RoBFRTsoN. Well, we have had a niunber of discussions with in- 

 dividuals from New York State, both in connection with basic re- 

 search and education, and in connection with the plans that are shaping 

 up there for the sea-grant programs. 



New York is a very important maritime State, and we are expect- 

 ing great things. 



Mr. Dow. Thank you. 



That is all, Mr. Chairman. 



Mr. Lennon. Mr. Pollock. 



Mr. Pollock. Thank you, Mr. Chairman. 



I certainly would like to thank both of you gentlemen for your 

 contribution this morning. It has been very educational. 



