of basic science support funded by the National Science Founda- 

 tion. This research over many years has contributed much to our 

 present-day understanding and technology. The present program 

 of weather modification research in the National Science Founda- 

 tion will assist operational responsibilities of various agencies, 

 including those to be incorporated into the DENR. 



The Committee has reiterated its concern, expressed in the first 

 annual report, for the public policy issues as well as the legal, social, 

 and economic impacts of weather modification. Studies, sponsored 

 by the National Science Foundation and the Departments of 

 Interior and Commerce, are now underway to provide information 

 on these vital aspects of weather modification. 



FISHERIES ACTIVITIES 



The Committee has again emphasized the predicament of the 

 U. S. commercial fisheries. This situation daily grows more serious. 

 I share the Committee's concern for the need to insure an eco- 

 nomically healthy fishing industry in the United States. During the 

 past year, we have taken some important steps and we are pleased 

 to see their endorsement by NACOA. I am especially gratified to 

 see the Committee's strong support for passage of the High Seas 

 Conservation Act submitted by the President to provide a basis for 

 improved management of our coastal fisheries; and, secondly, its 

 support for the new State/Federal management program which 

 the Department of Commerce is fostering cooperatively with 

 coastal states. 



During the past year, I have directed that we take a much 

 stronger position in our international fisheries negotiations in order 

 to protect and conserve the resources on which our fishermen are 

 dependent for their livelihood. I am sorry to report that at the 

 last meeting of the International Commission for the Northwest 

 Atlantic Fisheries, the nations which fish off our East Coast were 

 unwilling to reduce their total effort. I have indicated that we will 

 reconsider our membership in that Commission if, through it, the 

 necessary conservation of our fishery resources cannot be achieved. 



The Committee again raises the issue of a national plan for use 

 of the national fishery resources. I agree that a longer range plan 

 is required, and I have directed the Administrator of NOAA to 

 formulate such a plan. 



