|
WASHINGTON, D.C. – On World Ocean’s Day, Congresswoman Lois Capps (CA) and Congresswoman Ileana Ros-Lehtinen (FL) announced the formation of the National Marine Sanctuary Caucus. The Congresswomen also called attention to the introduction of their resolution recognizing the National Marine Sanctuaries for their valuable role in managing our oceans and commending local partners and volunteers for their critical contributions.
“I’m pleased to be joining Congresswoman Illeana Ros-Lehtinen in forming the National Marine Sanctuary Caucus and introducing a resolution recognizing the importance of the National Marine Sanctuaries on World Oceans Day,” said Capps. “The formation of the caucus and the introduction of this resolution are important steps to protect vulnerable coastal and marine areas as well as the local economies of our coastal communities. Our oceans face unprecedented challenges whether it is over fishing, increased development on our coasts, or rising levels of pollution from cities and farms. These threats to our sensitive coastal and marine areas are leading to the decline of marine wildlife and the degradation of ocean habitats. It is abundantly clear that our oceans need help - we must act now and work together to save these precious national treasures. The National Marine Sanctuary Caucus will address this vital need by building awareness of the importance of marine sanctuaries and working to ensure that our oceans are protected for generations to come.”
“The formation of this Congressional Caucus will allow the House to work together in unison to raise awareness about the all important role that marine sanctuaries play in protecting fragile ocean ecosystems and in turn, our coasts,” said Ros-Lehtinen. I am honored that my friend and colleague from the great state of California, Lois Capps, is joining this effort. I know that this issue is too important to not be addressed in a disciplined and focused matter. The Caucus will do just that.”
Capps and Ros-Lehtinen were joined at the press conference by Jean-Michel Cousteau, President of the Ocean Futures Society; Dr. Sylvia Earle, marine biologist and renowned Explorer In Residence at the National Geographic Society; and Dan Basta, Director of the National Marine Sanctuary System.
###
Pictured above: (center) Congresswoman Capps meets with Central Coast firefighters to discuss emergency preparedness.
|
