[Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents Volume 40, Number 39 (Monday, September 27, 2004)]
[Page 2066]
[Online from the Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

<R04>
Statement on the Final Report of the United States Commission on Ocean 
Policy

September 20, 2004

    I commend the members of the U.S. Commission on Ocean Policy for 
their hard work and welcome their Final Report.
    Our oceans sustain an abundance of natural wonders, enable the 
transportation of vital goods, and provide food and recreation for 
millions of Americans. My administration is working with every level of 
government, the private sector, and other nongovernmental organizations 
to advance the next generation of ocean policy. In order to foster more 
effective management and conservation of our ocean and coastal 
resources, my administration has launched and supported numerous 
innovative science, management, and policy initiatives. We have created 
a new integrated ocean observing system with international partners, 
embarked on deep oceans research with a state-of-the-art research ship, 
and advanced legislation to strengthen the National Oceanic and 
Atmospheric Administration. We are also building an improved, market-
based system to help restore our fisheries and keep our commercial and 
recreational fishing industries strong. Working with Congress and State 
Governors, my administration looks forward to building on these 
initiatives assisted by the work of the Commission.