For Immediate Release
Office of the Press Secretary
September 20, 2004
Statement by the President
I commend the members of the U.S. Commission on Ocean Policy for
their hard work and welcome their Final Report.
Our oceans sustain an abundance of natural wonders, enable the
transportation of vital goods, and provide food and recreation for
millions of Americans. My Administration is working with every level
of government, the private sector, and other non-governmental
organizations to advance the next generation of ocean policy. In order
to foster more effective management and conservation of our ocean and
coastal resources, my Administration has launched and supported
numerous innovative science, management, and policy initiatives. We
have created a new integrated ocean observing system with international
partners, embarked on deep oceans research with a state-of-the-art
research ship, and advanced legislation to strengthen the National
Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. We are also building an
improved, market-based system to help restore our fisheries and keep
our commercial and recreational fishing industries strong. Working
with Congress and state governors, my Administration looks forward to
building on these initiatives assisted by the work of the Commission.
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