1998 Year of the Ocean The U.S. Marine Transportation System 



EXECUTIVE SUMMARY 



The U.S. marine transportation system encompasses a network of navigable waters, 

 publicly and privately owned vessels, port terminals, intermodal connections, shipyards, vessel 

 repair facilities, and a trained labor pool operating and maintaining this infrastructure. 



The United States is the world's largest trading nation, accounting for over one billion 

 metric tons or nearly 20 percent of the world's oceanbome trade. Nonetheless, with international 

 trade projected to triple by 2020, and with over 90 percent of this trade (by weight) projected to 

 move by ocean, the capacity of the U.S. marine transportation system must increase. This 

 includes bringing the physical infrastructure of the system, such as charts, vessel traffic services, 

 and berths, up to world-class standards. 



The larger vessels being built to accommodate increasing demands require deeper 

 channels. Dredging operations that are necessary for the safe operation of vessels and port 

 facilities raise environmental concerns regarding the disposal of dredged material. Additional 

 environmental challenges include control of non-indigenous species, intentional and non- 

 intentional emission of petroleum and other toxins, and physical damage to marine habitats 

 caused by vessel and port operations. 



Technological developments in shipbuilding, navigation information, communications, 

 sensors, and cargo handling will improve safety and efficiency and allow smaller crews. As ships 

 and transportation systems become more complex, training requirements will grow. Crews must 

 be qualified and operate in accordance with international standards. 



Regulatory authority already exists to manage and maintain the marine transportation 

 system. However, the scope of improvements needed to remain globally competitive forces 

 consideration of the need for better coordination among the many stakeholders, new ftinding 

 mechanisms, and development of a Federal Waterways Management Plan. 



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