INTERCONNECTS

“Today is a historic day. For the first time, we as a nation say loudly and clearly that healthy oceans matter.

“Healthy oceans matter because they are vital to our prosperity, our health, our security, our ability to adapt to climate change and our quality of life.

“The interim report of the Interagency Ocean Policy Task Force lays out a national ocean policy that upholds our stewardship responsibilities, ensures accountability for our actions, and serves as a balanced model of efficient and sustainable ocean, coastal, and Great Lakes management and conservation.”

Jane Lubchenco, Ph.D., is the under secretary of commerce for oceans and atmosphere and NOAA administrator.