Obama proposes National Ocean Policy

Science : The Obama administration is proposing a National Ocean Policy, which would encourage 26 federal agencies to work together on ocean management and research and to improve efficiencies. So far, public reaction—including comments from researchers, science organizations, commercial fisheries, and public advocacy groups—has been mixed. Some praised the emphasis on ecosystem-based management, rather than focusing on one type of marine organism or group. Others feared that local and regional interests, as well as cultural and historical traditions, would be ignored. One of the main concerns, however, is that budget shortfalls and program eliminations could jeopardize implementation of the policy.