[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