This week marks the tenth annual Capitol Hill Ocean Week (CHOW), in which members of Congress, policy experts, advocates, and concerned citizens come together to discuss central issues facing the world’s oceans. Senator Coons is excited to serve on the Honorary Congressional Committee in support of the 2011 CHOW.
This year’s conference is titled American Prosperity and Global Security: Ocean Solutions for the 21st Century. Sponsored by the National Marine Sanctuary Foundation, events include guest lecturers, round table discussions, and academic presentations, which take place on and around Capitol Hill from Tuesday through Thursday.
As a member of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, Chris recognizes an important and challenging responsibility in conserving and protecting our natural resources, including ocean resources. The oceans present important economic opportunities, which Chris believes can help us create jobs and provide economic benefits for local communities. We must conserve and protect the health of our oceans in order to ensure they remain productive for future generations.
The focus of this year’s CHOW will help expand the current discussion on oceans to include securing ports and sea lanes for defense and commerce; development of renewable marine energy resources; ensuring productivity and sustainability of fisheries; providing opportunities for coastal and marine recreation; and remembering our maritime history. With nearly 400 miles of coast and shoreline, much of Delaware’s economy and culture is tied to the ocean. The fishing and seafood industry in Delaware supports nearly 1,500 jobs and over $70 million in sales every year. The Port of Wilmington handles over 4 million tons of imported and exported cargo each year, bringing jobs and economic development to the state. Finally, Delaware’s beaches are an important economic resource that draw over seven million tourists from across the country every year.
However, Delaware is also uniquely impacted by changes in the ocean itself and the policies that affect it. With thousands of jobs and millions of dollars tied to fishing, shipping, and tourism, Delaware residents rely heavily on secure and sustained sea trade and travel. Delaware’s maritime-related industries are vulnerable to environmental changes, such as sea level rise due to climate change, declines in fish and mussel populations, and powerful storms that damage beaches and coastal communities. National policies affecting international trade impact our local ports and the goods and businesses they bring to the First State. Similarly, our nation’s energy policy impacts Delaware’s development of renewable energy resources including offshore wind. The CHOW 2011 conference presents an important opportunity to discuss these issues in a global and forward-looking context.
Chris is excited to facilitate discussions with attendees from a range of industries and organizations in order to further bipartisan dialogue on ocean conservation and resource protection. Follow this link to learn more about CHOW 2011.
To read more about Chris’ work on the Energy and Natural Resources Committee, click here.