2007 U.S. OCEAN POLICY REPORT CARD
  The Joint Ocean Commission Initiative recently released its third annual U.S. Ocean Policy Report Card. The report card assesses the nation's progress in 2007 toward implementing the recommendations of the U.S. Commission on Ocean Policy and the Pew Oceans Commission, as well as the actions described in the Administration's U.S. Ocean Action Plan. It also informs policymakers and the public of the critical challenges facing our oceans, while identifying the many opportunities for action. The nation's overall grade given was a C, up from a C- in 2006. The Commission noted progress in two areas, writing that:

States and regions continued to move ocean policy reform forward, making significant strides in improving the management of coastal and ocean resources, and proving that Americans value the economic, environmental, and security benefits of our ocean, coastal, and Great Lakes waters.

U.S. ratification of the Law of the Sea Convention gained significant momentum due to support from the Bush Administration, action in the Senate, and the efforts of a diverse coalition of industry, military, and environmental leaders. Securing Senate approval of the Convention will require strong support from President Bush to ensure that the important national security, economic, and environmental interests that the treaty provides are realized. 

Source: Joint Ocean Commission Initiative, 27 February 2008
http://www.jointoceancommission.org/