    [United States Statutes at Large, Volume 124, 111th Congress, 2nd Session]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

    PROCLAMATION 8531--MAY 28, 2010

    Proclamation 8531 of May 28, 2010
    National Oceans Month, 2010
    By the President of the United States of America
    A Proclamation

    Each year during National Oceans Month, we rededicate ourselves to
    protect the Earth's dominant feature and precious resource. In 2010,
    this annual observance falls at a time of environmental crisis, as we
    continue our relentless efforts to stop and contain the oil spill
    threatening the Gulf Coast region. The oil spill has already caused
    substantial damage to our coastline and its natural habitats, and
    negatively impacted the livelihoods of Gulf Coast small businesses and
    communities. The environmental and economic devastation to the Gulf
    Coast region requires our continuing efforts to reverse the damage to
    our coastlines and revitalize affected areas.
    As we respond to this disaster, we must not forget that our oceans,
    coasts, and Great Lakes demand our constant attention. They have long
    been under considerable strain from pollution, overfishing, climate
    change, and other human activity. Last year, I established the
    Interagency Ocean Policy Task Force and charged it with developing a
    clear direction for meeting our environmental stewardship
    responsibilities. Our oceans face complex challenges, and we must take a
    comprehensive approach to ensure their sustained protection,
    maintenance, and restoration.
    The vitality and bounty of America's natural resources immeasurably
    impact our lives. This year marks the 40th anniversary of the National
    Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. As we commemorate this special
    milestone, we are reminded by the ongoing Gulf Coast crisis that we
    still have much to do in order to safeguard our vast oceanic resources
    for generations to come. Forty years from now, when our children look
    back on this moment, let them say that we did not waiver, but rather
    seized this opportunity to fulfill our duty to protect the waters that
    sustain us.
    NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the United States of
    America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and
    the laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim June 2010 as National
    Oceans Month. I call upon Americans to learn more about what they can do
    to protect, conserve, sustain, and enjoy our oceans, coasts, and Great
    Lakes.
    IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this twenty-eighth day
    of May, in the year of our Lord two thousand ten, and of the
    Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-
    fourth.
    BARACK OBAMA