On the basis of reports, surveys, and studies, the Surgeon General has reason to believe that pollution of the interstate waters of Raritan Bay and adjacent waters, caused by discharges of untreated and inadequately treated sewage and industrial wastes by municipalities and industries in New Jersey and New York was endangering the health and welfare of persons. The purpose of the conference is to bring the states, the Interstate Agency, and the Public Health Service together to lay a basis for future action by all parties concerned and to give the states, the Interstate Agency, and the local governmental agencies an opportunity to take remedial action which may be indicated under state and local law.