[United States Statutes at Large, Volume 127, 113th Congress, 1st Session]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

 
PROCLAMATION 8991--MAY 31, 2013

Proclamation 8991 of May 31, 2013

National Oceans Month, 2013
By the President of the United States of America
A Proclamation
From providing food and energy to helping sustain our climate and our
security, the oceans play a critical role in nearly every part of our
national life. They connect us to countries around the world, and
support transportation and trade networks that grow our economy. For
millions of Americans, our coasts are also a gateway to good jobs and a
decent living. All of us have a stake in keeping the oceans, coasts, and
Great Lakes clean and productive--which is why we must manage them
wisely not just in our time, but for generations to come.
Rising to meet that test means addressing threats like overfishing,
pollution, and climate change. Alongside partners at every level of
government and throughout the private sector, my Administration is
taking up that task. Earlier this year, we finalized a plan to turn our
National Ocean Policy into concrete actions that protect the
environment, streamline Federal operations, and promote economic growth.
The plan charts a path to better decision-making through science and
data sharing, and it ensures tax dollars are spent more efficiently by
reducing duplication and cutting red tape. Best of all, it puts stock in
the American people--drawing on their knowledge and empowering
communities to bring local solutions to the challenges we face.
By making smart choices in ocean management, we can give our businesses
the tools they need to thrive while protecting the long-term health of
our marine ecosystems. Let us mark this month by renewing those goals,
reinvesting in our coastal economies, and recommitting to good
stewardship in the years ahead.
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 2013 as National
Oceans Month. I call upon Americans to take action to protect, conserve,
and restore our oceans, coasts, and the Great Lakes.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this thirty-first day of
May, in the year of our Lord two thousand thirteen, and of the
Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-
seventh.
BARACK OBAMA