MARINE SCIENCE AFFAIRS-A YEAR OF TRANSITION MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES TRANSMITTING THE FIRST REPORT OF THE NATIONAL COUNCIL ON DEVELOPMENT, FEBRUARY 1967 U. VA. DEC 15 1986 JERARY MARCH 9, 1967.-Referred to the Committee on Merchant Marine and with illustrations 75-954 O U.S. GOVERNMENT PRINTING OFFICE WASHINGTON: 1967 To the Congress of the United States: I am pleased to report on the marine science activities of the Federal Government. The resources of the oceans can help us meet many of the challenges that face our Nation and the world today. The vast food reserves of the sea must be developed to help end the tragic cycle of famine and despair. The continuing pollution and erosion of our seashores, bays, estuaries, and Great Lakes must be arrested and reversed to safeguard the health of our people and to protect the resources of the sea. The influence of oceans on the environment must be understood so that we may improve the long-term forecasting of storms, weather, and sea conditions; protect life and property in coastal areas; and improve the prediction of rainfall in the interior. The wealth of the ocean floor must be freed for the benefit of all people. Finally, the seas must be used as pathways to improved international understanding and cooperation. The great potential of the seas has not gone unnoticed. During the past 6 years, we have invested increasingly in the development of marine scientific and technical manpower, ships, and facilities. The quality of our research fleet, deep sea vessels, and laboratories is unsurpassed. The small but growing corps of highly trained specialists provides a strong creative base for our marine science and technology. The 89th Congress also responded to the challenge of the oceans by enacting The Marine Resources and Engineering Development Act which provides a stronger policy and organization framework and gives new momentum to our marine science activities; The Sea Grant College and Program Act, which will improve our capabilities for training and research in marine sciences and engineering; and The act authorizing pilot plants for the production of fish protein as a usable source of food. The new National Council on Marine Resources and Engineering Development, chaired by the Vice President, has made significant progress in carrying out its responsibilities for planning and coordinating the Nation's marine science activities. In consultation with the President's Science Advisory Committee, the National Academy of III |