WASHINGTON, D.C. — The U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation and its Chairman, John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV, celebrates World Oceans Day and Capitol Hill Ocean Week beginning Monday, June 8th and running through Friday, June 12th, 2009. The goal of this year's Ocean Week is to highlight the critical importance of improving the Blue Economy and increasing Blue Jobs.

“The United States is on the cusp of creating a wave of new “blue” jobs through ocean energy development, aquaculture, marine drugs and maritime trade.  Next week we recognize and honor a major driver of economic and environmental wealth - our oceans,” Rockefeller said. “Our nation’s extensive ocean and coastal resources provide many services and benefits, including supporting maritime commerce, fishery and energy development essential to our economy, and environmental protection, tourism, and recreation vital to our quality of life.” 

***Chairman Rockefeller sent the letter below to President Obama encouraging support for our oceans and maritime resources.***

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