National Oceans Month, 2008

Proclamation 8268 of June 2, 2008

National Oceans Month, 2008

By the President of the United States of America

A Proclamation

Oceans have provided an important part of our heritage,
economy, and recreation, and they are a vital resource
for our country and the world. During National Oceans
Month, we reaffirm our commitment to protect and wisely
use these precious waters and the habitat beneath them.

We have a solemn responsibility to care for our seas
and show concern for the plant and animal life that
inhabit them. Oceans bring enjoyment and prosperity to
countless people, from boating and fishing, to
transporting goods, to traveling the waterways. By
being good stewards of the oceans, we can ensure that
future generations are able to enjoy the great
blessings of our natural heritage.

My Administration is committed to safeguarding the
oceans and ensuring effective conservation. Since the
release of my Ocean Action Plan in 2004, we have taken
steps to prevent pollution and improve the health of
marine wildlife by working with State, tribal, and
local governments, as well as private sector and
international partners. We are working to end
overfishing in U.S. waters and to stop destructive
fishing practices on the high seas. We are also
supporting ocean programs to educate the public on the
need to prevent marine debris and improve the quality
of the marine environment, as well as other projects
such as the International Coral Reef Initiative that
can help conserve and restore delicate and essential
ecosystems. By working to protect our oceans, we ensure
that natural wonders like the Papahanaumokuakea Marine
National Monument in the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands
will be enjoyed for generations to come.

This month is an opportunity to show our gratitude
toward all those who work to protect the oceans, to
learn more about the vital role oceans play in the life
of our country, and to discover ways we can conserve
their many natural treasures.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, GEORGE W. BUSH, President of the
United States of America, by virtue of the authority
vested in me by the Constitution and laws of the United
States, do hereby proclaim June 2008 as National Oceans
Month. I encourage all our citizens to observe this
month with appropriate ceremonies and activities.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this
second day of June, in the year of our Lord two
thousand eight, and of the Independence of the United
States of America the two hundred and thirty-second.