[Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents Volume 42, Number 23 (Monday, June 12, 2006)]
[Page 1073]
[Online from the Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

<R04>
Proclamation 8027--National Oceans Week, 2006

 June 2, 2006

 By the President of the United States

 of America

 A Proclamation

    During National Oceans Week, we recognize the importance of the 
oceans to our national heritage, economy, and security and reaffirm our 
commitment to protecting them through wise stewardship and sensible 
management.
    The magnificent beauty of the oceans is a blessing to our country 
and the world. The oceans also sustain an abundance of natural and 
historical treasures, enable the transportation of vital goods, and 
provide food and recreation for millions of people. My Administration is 
working with State, tribal, and local governments, the private sector, 
and international partners to foster more effective conservation of our 
oceans, coasts, and Great Lakes resources and to advance the 
environmental, economic, and security interests of our Nation.
    On December 17, 2004, I established the Committee on Ocean Policy to 
implement the United States Ocean Action Plan. Through this plan, we are 
building an integrated ocean observing system, promoting ocean 
education, embarking on deep oceans research, supporting our maritime 
transportation system, and enhancing our international leadership role 
in ocean science and policy. We are also advancing legislation to 
strengthen the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 
establish a system of sustainable aquaculture, and maintain protections 
for marine mammals. To fulfill my commitment to end overfishing, we are 
working with the Congress to build an improved, market-based system to 
better manage our fisheries and keep our commercial and recreational 
fishing industries strong.
    I appreciate all those who are dedicated to making the oceans, 
coasts, and Great Lakes cleaner, healthier, and more productive. By 
working together, all Americans can help sustain the oceans for 
generations to come.
     Now, Therefore, I, George W. Bush, President of the United States 
of America, do hereby proclaim June 4 through June 10, 2006, as National 
Oceans Week. I call upon the people of the United States to learn more 
about the vital role the oceans play in the life of our country and how 
we can conserve their many natural treasures. I encourage all our 
citizens to observe this week with appropriate programs and activities.
     In Witness Whereof, I have hereunto set my hand this second day of 
June, in the year of our Lord two thousand six, and of the Independence 
of the United States of America the two hundred and thirtieth.
                                                George W. Bush

 [Filed with the Office of the Federal Register, 8:45 a.m., June 6, 
2006]

Note: This proclamation was published in the Federal Register on June 7. 
This item was not received in time for publication in the appropriate 
issue.