[Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents Volume 43, Number 22 (Monday, June 4, 2007)]
[Pages 705-706]
[Online from the Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

<R04>
Proclamation 8150--National Oceans Month, 2007

 May 30, 2007

 By the President of the United States

 of America

 A Proclamation

    Our Nation benefits from the oceans that contain precious natural 
treasures, carry much of our trade, and provide us with food and 
recreational opportunities. During National Oceans Month, we celebrate 
these benefits, and we underscore our commitment to being good stewards 
of the oceans.
    Since the release of my Ocean Action Plan in 2004, my Administration 
has made great strides in ocean conservation by working with State, 
tribal, and local governments, the private sector, and our international 
partners in the spirit of cooperative conservation. In June 2006, I 
designated a national monument in the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands to 
celebrate the area's natural, cultural, and historical importance. The 
tropical waters of the Papahanaumokuakea Marine National Monument are a 
sanctuary for 7,000 marine species. This important Monument is our 
Nation's largest single conservation area and the largest protected 
marine area in the world. Earlier this year, I was also proud to sign 
into law the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management 
Reauthorization Act of 2006 to end over-fishing and rebuild our Nation's 
fish stocks through more effective, market-based management. 
Internationally, we continue to lead in protecting the maritime 
environment while preserving the navigational freedoms essential to the 
security and prosperity of every nation. By working to build a well 
managed system of offshore aquaculture, we can provide a healthy source 
of food and reduce pressure on our ocean ecosystems.
    During National Oceans Month and throughout the year, we recognize 
all who are dedicated to making our oceans, coasts, and Great Lakes 
cleaner, healthier, and more productive, including the many Federal 
agencies that make up the Committee on Ocean Policy. One of these 
agencies, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 
celebrates two centuries of dedicated research and conservation of 
coastal and marine environments. By continuing to work together, we can 
conserve and enjoy the splendor of these magnificent waters now and for 
generations to come.
    Now, Therefore, I, George W. Bush, President of the United States of 
America, do hereby proclaim June 2007 as National Oceans Month. I call 
upon the people of the United States to learn more about the vital role 
oceans play in the life of our country

[[Page 706]]

and ways we can conserve their many national treasures. I encourage all 
our citizens to observe this month with appropriate ceremonies and 
activities.
    In Witness Whereof, I have hereunto set my hand this thirtieth day 
of May, in the year of our Lord two thousand seven, and of the 
Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-
first.
                                                George W. Bush

 [Filed with the Office of the Federal Register, 8:52 a.m., June 1, 
2007]

Note: This proclamation was released by the Office of the Press 
Secretary on May 31, and it was published in the Federal Register on 
June 4.