Climate of Our Future

Ocean Conservancy

A Celebration of the Bay State’s Ocean Heritage
November 7, 2007
Media Contact: Tom McCann

What: Senator Robert O’Leary, sponsor of the Massachusetts Ocean Act, will host Massachusetts Ocean Day at the State House showcasing the Bay State’s ocean heritage and how better management will help protect our coastal and ocean resources. Exhibiting organizations will provide information on ocean issues, research and education. Local seafood and refreshments will be provided.

Where: Massachusetts State House, Boston Massachusetts

When: Thursday, November 15 from 10:00 am-2:00 pm

Speakers:
Honorable Leon Panetta Joint Ocean Commission Initiative and former White House Chief of Staff to President Clinton and Congressman from California
State Senator Robert O’Leary sponsor of the Massachusetts Ocean Act
Others to be added soon

Background: The ocean is the economic backbone of our coastal communities and a critical part of our quality of life. The Bay State’s coastline and state ocean waters support 152,000 jobs, generate $4.3 billion in income each year for the Commonwealth, and provide countless recreational opportunities.

But our ocean is in trouble. Things are changing fast. Proposed new uses are crowding and stressing offshore waters, fish are disappearing and whales are dying. Current decisions about ocean-related uses are made in a piecemeal fashion by different agencies, putting ocean-dependant communities and marine ecosystems at risk. A more comprehensive ecosystem-based approach is needed for how ocean planning decisions are informed, made and carried out.

To learn more visit: http://www.massoceanaction.org/.