The Marine Resources Council, composed of sixteen members who are appointed by the Governor and who represent various segments of industry, government, and academic institutions, was established to provide for efficient, effective, and economic development of marine resources. In addition, the council was created to carry out a continuing study of the science of oceanography and develop a long-range oceanographic program for Mississippi. The Legislature assigned administrative responsibilities for the Coastal Wetlands Protection Law to the Marine Resources Council. The council also was to develop a management plan for the Coastal Zone Management Program, a federal-state funded comprehensive land/water use and coastal regional development effort.
The report recommended the development of formal agreements of understanding between the council and each of the state and local agencies and institutions on the Gulf Coast. These agreements would specify services offered, areas of jurisdiction, subjects of jurisdiction, and willingness to report matters of concern. Further, as required by law, the Marine Resources Council should develop a long-range oceanographic program.
For a paper copy of this report, contact PEER by telephone at 601-359-1226 or by e-mail at reports@peer.ms.gov.