Abstract |
The Clean Water Restoration Act of 1966, an amendment to the Federal Mater Pollution Control Act, required the Department of Interior make a national study of estuarine pollution. The objectives of this study are outlined in a brochure to be found on the back table and Ill summarize these if I can. The objectives are for the Secretary of the Interior to prepare a report and submit to Congress. This report shall (1) document and analyze the various aspects of estuarine pollution: (2) make recommendations for a comprehensive national program for the preservation use and development of estuarine zones and (3) recognize the respective rolls of Federal, State and local governments plus private and public interest. Actually the Act fairly well defines particularly related to the beneficial uses, and to consider use trends which will influence future pollution problems. The Act also calls for assembly and coordination and organization of all existing data. The identification of problems in areas in which there is a need for Federal study. An analysis of economic and social values of the estuaries and a discussion of the major economic, social and ecological trends as they may influence future pollution problems. The Act specifically directs that the study be made in cooperation with other governmental agencies, private organizations, institutions and individuals. The purpose of this meeting today is to obtain an expression from interested persons, groups and agencies from here and throughout the State of Virginia. |