

"The MFCN staff and many of our member groups have worked long and hard for this policy and we are grateful to see such a strong commitment by the President to protecting and enhancing living marine resources, " says Marine Fish Conservation Network Executive Director Bruce Stedman. "There is still a great deal of work to make sure this plan is realized, but this is an excellent beginning."
The Executive Order is effective immediately, and MFCN urges the Administration to take the first implementation steps soon, or the health of living marine resources will continue to decline. It is essential to implement a comprehensive plan for ocean uses, and MFCN commends President Obama's Administration for its commitment to marine spatial planning. With clear, regional plans in place, our Great Lakes, coasts and oceans will be much better prepared for ever increasing multiple uses affecting them. The National Ocean Policy can ensure conflicts are kept to a minimum and that conservation of our waters is a priority, safeguarding our marine ecosystems and the livelihoods that depend on them.
For the President's Executive Order and the full National Ocean Policy recommendation please visit our website.
For more information contact Court Squires, Dir. of Media and Communications (202) 543-5509 x. 204
Marine Fish Conservation Network ". . . achieving healthy oceans and productive fisheries"
600 Pennsylvania Ave. SE, Suite 210 | Washington, DC 20003 | (202) 543-5509 | www.conservefish.org.