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LETTER OF TRANSMITTAL 
SENATE ComMMITTEE ON COMMERCE, 
U.S. SENATE, 
Washington, D.C. 
Dear CoiieaGue: After the National Ocean Policy Study was 
authorized by Senate Resolution 222, the Study Committee deter- 
mined that one of its initial thrusts would be directed toward a review 
of the adequacy of the national capability for ocean data management. 
To embark upon this review, the Study Committee requested the 
Interagency Committee on Marine Science and Engineering (IC MSE). 
to undertake a study and prepare a report setting forth the locations, 
principal contacts, capabilities, and resources of the facilities involved 
with ocean data and then to prepare a detailed report on all aspects of 
ocean data activities. 
The document transmitted herewith is in response to the first 
request, listing all of the Federal Government agencies, state and 
regional facilities, academic institutions, and industrial marine- 
oriented companies actively participating in acquisition, processing, 
dissemination, and use of ocean data. It was prepared by ICMSKH, 
working through the Environmental Data Service of NOAA and the 
Committee member agencies. 
This reference document is intended for use by members of the 
Senate National Ocean Policy Study Committee as they review the 
adequacy of present institutional mechanisms for providing the 
comprehensive data base necessary for operations in the marine 
environment. 
Warren G. Maeanuson, 
Chairman, Committee on Commerce. 
Ernest F. Houurnes, 
Chairman, National Ocean Policy Study. 
(ITI) 
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