Calling on Americans to “reflect the value and importance of oceans not only to our security, environment, and economy but also as a source of recreation and enjoyment,” President Trump today proclaimed June 2020 as National Ocean Month.
The proclamation, which cites the importance of the oceans and coasts to national security, international trade, maritime commerce, global competitiveness, and transportation, reaffirms a “commitment to responsible stewardship of our ocean resources to strengthen and expand economic opportunities, while also ensuring that the natural beauty and wonder of the oceans are preserved and maintained for future generations.”
It specifically cites commitments to increased maritime commerce, seafood production, and energy exploration, development, and production, as well as to promoting conservation and enhancing national security, while drawing attention to federal efforts to combat ocean pollution and the importance of partnerships with both private and public entities.
The proclamation also notes the need for additional ocean exploration, specifically citing the energy supplies, jobs, and economic impacts associated with U.S. offshore oil and natural gas production and the “enormous opportunity for our country to bolster these numbers and expand this critical and profitable industry, generating even more jobs for hardworking Americans.”
