636 



-33- 



conservation , management, and development of , marine resources " 

 (H.R. 2853, §4(a){2)(B)) (emphasis added). As its initial focus, 

 the Commission would prepare an interim report within 6 months of 

 its first meeting which would present recommendations for the 

 EEZ, the continental shelf and related international policy 

 issues. 



In our view, a balanced review of ocean policies, with 

 initial emphasis on the EEZ, is needed. Once such a review has 

 been completed, a U.S. position on dumping could be developed, 

 along with requirements for research, monitoring and other 

 measures to ensure that due regard is given to conservation of 

 our marine resources. Furthermore, a proposed position on 

 dumping could be presented at that time in a manner which 

 responds to the London Dumping Convention's requirement that EEZ 

 measures be defined cooperatively by its Parties. 



Conclusion 



Mr. Chairman, thank you for the opportunity to present these 

 concerns regarding U.S. policies and programs pertaining to ocean 

 dumping of radioactive wastes. Our oceans are too important to 

 permit them to be used as experimental dumping grounds for 

 radioactive wastes. This Subcommittee and the full Congress 

 already have taken constructive steps to ensure that this does 

 not happen. We look forward to working with you in the 

 continuing effort to develop policies and programs that will 

 protect, conserve, and provide for sustainable utilization and 

 development of our ocean and coastal resources. 



