[Congressional Record Volume 142, Number 54 (Wednesday, April 24, 1996)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E616]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




  IN SUPPORT OF H.R. 3249, THE MARINE MINERAL RESOURCES INSTITUTE ACT

                                 ______


                          HON. ROGER F. WICKER

                             of mississippi

                    in the house of representatives

                        Tuesday, April 23, 1996

  Mr. WICKER. Mr. Speaker, today I am pleased to join my colleague from 
Hawaii, Mr. Abercrombie, in support of H.R. 3249, legislation to 
continue a valuable marine minerals resource program. Since its 
inception in 1988, this program has had as its primary goal the 
environmentally responsible exploration and development of mineral 
resources found within our Nation's Exclusive Economic Zone [EEZ]. This 
region covers more area than the United States proper and contains a 
resource base estimated in the trillions of dollars. By successfully 
merging the skills of academia and the talents of industry, this 
program is working to place the United States well above its 
international competitors in underwater technology development. At the 
same time, this program invests in the future by providing graduate 
students with first-hand training in marine mineral development.
  At present, the United States is in danger of being surpassed by 
other nations that are aggressively pursuing the development of 
environmentally friendly ocean mining technology. Japan, the United 
Kingdom, France, and China, in particular, have devoted considerable 
time and money toward developing such technologies and promoting 
industry support. This program directs successful applied research 
efforts with numerous concrete accomplishments. To meet future 
challenges, researchers are working to develop surveying and sampling 
systems for use in locating important mineral deposits. The systems can 
be used for locating sand resources for coastline stabilization and 
beach replenishment. In addition, they are essential in assessing and 
monitoring pollutants in river and oceanic sediments. Researchers are 
also working to develop an acoustical filter system to control dredging 
turbidity and to process industrial waste.
  For a relatively small input of Federal money, a strong relationship 
has been forged between Federal, academic, and industry teams to 
address problems in marine resources and the environment. I ask my 
colleagues to join us in supporting this exceptional program.

                          ____________________